The Great Reality TV Migration: Why Networks Are Filming Abroad (And Why It Matters)
There’s a quiet revolution happening in the world of reality TV, and it’s not about dramatic breakups or shocking eliminations. It’s about geography. More and more reality shows are being filmed outside the United States, and it’s not just for the Instagram-worthy backdrops. Personally, I think this trend reveals something deeper about the entertainment industry—and maybe even about global economics.
Take The Floor, hosted by Rob Lowe. Last year, Lowe made headlines when he revealed it was cheaper to fly 100 Americans to Ireland than to film the show in Los Angeles. That’s not just a logistical quirk; it’s a symptom of a larger issue. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it highlights the financial pressures networks face. Tax incentives, lower production costs, and favorable exchange rates are driving this exodus. But here’s the irony: networks and streamers want to film in the U.S. They’re not abandoning their home turf by choice.
The Economics of Location: Why Ireland Beats LA
Let’s break this down. Allison Wallach, Head of Unscripted Programming at Fox Entertainment Studios, explained at the Deadline Reality TV Summit that Ireland has become a go-to location for studio-based shows. Why? Tax credits and a reliable production partner, Bigger Stage, make it a no-brainer. From my perspective, this isn’t just about saving money—it’s about maximizing quality within tight budgets. Networks are under immense pressure to deliver high-production-value shows without breaking the bank.
But it’s not all about finances. Creative reasons also play a role. Shows like Love Island USA are filmed abroad because the setting—think tropical beaches and lush landscapes—is part of the appeal. Jenn Levy from Amazon pointed out that these locations add to the production value. What many people don’t realize is that these exotic backdrops aren’t just eye candy; they’re strategic choices to keep audiences hooked.
The Political Factor: How Trump Changed the Game
Here’s a detail that I find especially interesting: Jay Pharoah, host of The Quiz with Balls, hinted that political shifts during the Trump era made filming abroad more appealing. While he joked about the “trash” food in Belgium, his underlying point was serious. The unpredictability of U.S. policies and the rising costs of production stateside pushed networks to look elsewhere. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a prime example of how politics can indirectly shape pop culture.
The Creative vs. Practical Dilemma
What this really suggests is that the decision to film abroad isn’t black and white. It’s a delicate balance between creativity and practicality. Netflix’s The Golden Ticket was shot in Australia because the production company, Eureka, is based there. Similarly, Monopoly is being filmed in the UK for the same reason. Jeff Gaspin, Netflix’s VP of Unscripted, admitted it’s easier to produce in the U.S., but logistics often dictate otherwise.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
This raises a deeper question: Is this trend temporary, or are we witnessing a permanent shift? Personally, I think it’s a mix of both. As long as tax incentives and production costs remain favorable abroad, networks will continue to film outside the U.S. But there’s also a growing push to bring production back home. Networks want to tap into local talent, reduce travel costs, and reconnect with their domestic audiences.
One thing that immediately stands out is how this trend reflects broader global dynamics. The entertainment industry is a microcosm of the world economy, where businesses constantly seek the most cost-effective solutions. But it also highlights the importance of local incentives. If the U.S. wants to reclaim its position as the go-to destination for reality TV production, it needs to address the issues driving networks away.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, the great reality TV migration is more than just a logistical shift—it’s a story about adaptation, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of efficiency. It’s also a reminder that even the most glamorous industries are shaped by practical considerations. As a viewer, I can’t help but wonder: Does filming abroad enhance the shows we love, or does it dilute their authenticity? That’s a debate for another day. But one thing’s for sure: the next time you binge a reality show, take a moment to appreciate the complex web of decisions that brought it to your screen.
