Reality TV: Are You the Next Big Star?

Do you have what it takes to be the next big reality television star? Have you dreamed of blowing Simon Cowell away with
your awesome singing? Perhaps you've plotted the perfect way to backstab an entire cast of other eager contestants
in order to walk away with a jackpot?

Reality television producers are looking for interesting contestants for their shows- and it doesn't hurt if they happen to beautiful! However, personality can get you a long ways when it comes to choosing a show's next contestants. Check out these rules and tips, and make yourself the next reality show star.

America's Got Talent
NBC's new talent competition, America's Got Talent, is taking auditions in several major cities throughout the month of April (2006). Developed by the produces of American Idol (Simon Cowell and Freemantle Media), the show is looking for the greatest variety and novelty acts. They are searching for all types of talent- singers, magicians, comedians, dancers, etc. Potential contestants need to download and complete a personal release form and application. All stunt performances
must sign a doctor's release, and anyone performing with animals must complete an animal questionnaire (available on NBC website). And just in case your act involves knives or fire, the producers would prefer a VHS/DVD entry, rather than a personal performance.

Big Brother
If you think you can be the perfect houseguest, and live under constant camera scrutiny in a house full of complete strangers, then Big Brother may be the show for. If you are willing to share your private thoughts and moments with the world for 100 days in order to win a half a million dollars, then get yourself a camcorder and make a yourself famous! Potential Big Brother candidates must make a two-minute VHS video telling the producers why you would make the best Big Brother houseguest. This is your moment to shine- show off every asset (ahem) you have, and get creative! Rewind and label the tape clearly.
After making the videotape, download and complete an application , including two photographs of yourself (close-up and full body). Where you send the video depend on where you live. Follow the application instructions.

Wife Swap
Switching families can be exciting, nerve-wracking, and slightly insane! If you think your family has what it takes to undergo such scrutiny, then check out ABC's hit show, Wife Swap. In each episode, the moms of two families switch lives for ten days- different children, husband, house- you name it. These families learn what life is really like outside their own household.
Interested contestants can complete an application
http://abc.go.com/primetime/wifeswap/wsapplication.html

Extreme Makeover
Dreaming of a major whole-body makeover? The Extreme Makeover team takes the less-than-perfect contestants and turns them into sexy, gorgeous people. To join the show, make a video highlighting everything you want changed about yourself. Tell the producers why you deserve a makerover more than anyone else, and include lots of close-ups of your body, face, teeth, etc. Once your tape is complete, fill out an application, and send it in for your shot at becoming gorgeous!