Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comThe Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comThis can perhaps be attributed to the fact that viewers across America are fascinated with imagining themselves as actual participants of these programs—giving them the ability to blend both fantasy and reality within their own living rooms.
Regardless of reality TV’s new central position in today’s television economy, reality television stars have relatively little legal protection compared to professional talent. Working conditions for both reality TV stars—as well as their crews—have improved little in recent years. This poor treatment has spawned a number of complaints against networks themselves, as well as strikes and eventually, lawsuits.
So, by volunteering themselves for these television shows, are reality television participants giving their informed consent?
Before the cameras begin to roll, reality stars are forced to sign extensive contracts, releasing the producers from any and all liability. This release includes the ability for participants to be considered ‘employees’.
As a result, behind the scenes of many of today’s popular reality TV shows, producers and writers are suffering from wage theft. It has been reported that those behind popular reality shows lose nearly $30,000 per year in unpaid wages, by working without breaks and overtime pay, totaling a shocking $40 million a year across the reality television industry itself. In addition to these lost wages, studios are not forced to provide health benefits, pension plans, or compensation for sick days.
Should production companies be forced to implement more protective measures? Perhaps. It is a well-known fact that networks and production companies rake in millions of dollars in yearly profits from reality-television programs, yet many in the industry feel that they are not obeying wage-and-hour laws. As a result, the Writers Guild has begun demanding collective bargaining rights for its employees, in addition to calling on local law enforcement to investigate what they consider to be labor law violations.
While reality-television stars within the United States are not currently considered ‘employees’, in other countries, this is not the case. In 2009, in a landmark case in France, contestants on a French television reality show secured the right to be treated as employed workers. This meant that the show’s contestants were now entitled to overtime payments and other benefits, including the benefits of a full employment contract—and a 35-hour workweek. This decision led to extreme changes in the French television world, including the end of illicit practices.
The issue is currently still under debate within the United States.
We love to hate them, but reality television shows have never been more popular. Check out my other posts regarding the legal aspects of reality television and reality stars:
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
The bankruptcy legal landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses navigating financial distress. Understanding current bankruptcy trends can help businesses make more informed and strategic decisions. Corporate Bankruptcy Filings Trending Upwards Bankruptcy filings continued to trend upwards in 2024. According to statistics released by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, personal and business […]
Author: Brian D. Spector
In December, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced charges against two privately held companies for failing to file a Form D notice, which is generally utilized for exempt securities offerings. Here, the SEC’s enforcement sends a strong message: compliance with regulatory requirements is not optional and failure to comply can have significant consequences. […]
Author: Kenneth C. Oh
On February 14, 2025, the Office of General Counsel (OGC) of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) under Acting General Counsel William B. Cowen issued Memorandum 25-05, “New Process for More Efficient, Effective, Accessible and Transparent Case handling.” The Memorandum rescinds nearly all of the Memoranda issued by his direct predecessor, Jennifer Abruzzo, setting the […]
Author: Matthew F. Mimnaugh
If you purchase real property from a foreign person or entity, you may be required to withhold taxes from your payment to the seller under the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA). The federal tax law is designed to ensure that foreign sellers pay any applicable capital gains tax on profits realized from […]
Author: Jesse M. Dimitro
Your home is likely your greatest asset, which is why it is so important to adequately protect it. Homeowners insurance protects you from the financial costs of unforeseen losses, such as theft, fire, and natural disasters, by helping you rebuild and replace possessions that were lost While the definition of “adequate” coverage depends upon a […]
Author: Jesse M. Dimitro
Making a non-contingent offer can dramatically increase your chances of securing a real estate transaction, particularly in competitive markets like New York City. However, buyers should understand that waiving contingencies, including those related to financing, or appraisals, also comes with significant risks. Determining your best strategy requires careful analysis of the property, the market, and […]
Author: Jesse M. Dimitro
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!