"Big Brother Titans" mirrors reality to offer perspective
The “Big Brother” franchise is a reality game show and a microcosm of the real world. The food scarcity, less-than-ideal working conditions, diverse populations, entertainment for social engineering, and an innate longing for intimacy reflect society at large are present in real life and reflected on the show.
Between group showers, often broadcast live, and close living quarters, new relationships are formed and it’s no surprise when inhibitions run low and libidos trend high. Salacious behavior, 24-hour live broadcasts, and challenges are like candy and hook audiences to their screens.
While satisfying the public’s voyeurism, “Big Brother ” simultaneously holds a mirror up to Nigerian and South African society, questioning what they see in the glass.
This year, the “Big Brother Titans” marks a joint season between the South African and Nigerian iterations of the franchise. According to producers, the theme of this season was “Ziyakhala Wahala” which can be loosely translated to “things are going down,” and “trouble is about to go down,” if you will.
“Big Brother Titans” 2023 cast
In the news recently, there have been poor relations among South Africans and Nigerians reported as “xenophobia.” Vigilantism marked various incidents, like harassment, assault, and civilian-led raids of foreign-owned businesses.
It is also true that there are rational feelings of disillusion towards the the state of the nation. Nevertheless, without nuance and consideration, the overemphasis on the mere presence of foreign nationals tends to silence the greater problem — sabotage, in the form of poor governance, flagrant disregard of immigration law, and a lack of law enforcement.
Herein lies the opportunity for entertainment to bridge the gap between people and present a different perspective. “Big Brother Titans” highlighted the value of intercultural unity and collectivism. The show offers a glimpse into how diverse social groups share similarities, into what a positive relationship could be — even if the contestants are part of a game show.
“Big Brother Mzansi” host, Lawrence Maleka and “BBNaija” host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu are the co-hosts of “Big Brother Titans”
In a diary session, Ebubu offered an insightful perspective on the importance of partnership. “If you win, it’s with your partner. If there’s a mistake, it’s with your partner. If you lose, it’s with your partner. So always having someone to share everything with is fantastic.”
Granted, he also talked about a romantic interest of his in the same diary session, but the point remains. Interestingly, his assertion reminded me of Ari Lennox’s “New Apartment” outro:
“Your furniture is not gonna fucking teach you how to Dougie. It's not gonna teach you how to swim. It's not gonna teach you how to roller skate. And then I realized, oh my god, I need people”.
While reality shows are most remembered for the antics, romantic and competition alike, Whether it’s a new apartment, team sports, or a reality TV game show, a little ubuntu goes a long way in life.
