Reality competition shows can launch your act—or burn it

It sounds like a big opportunity… sometimes it is.

I’ve helped with casting for these companies

I’ve been on a lot of TV shows and helped other performers get on a lot of tv and film stuff.

Exposure is the trade they’re offering

Most people go on these shows chasing one thing: exposure. Here’s what that actually looks like:

• A clip of you performing in front of millions of people
• A chance to get noticed by bookers or fans
• Credibility if the show has name recognition
• Something to post and point to when people ask “Where have you performed?”

That can be enough to move your career forward—if you use it right.

You lose control the second you walk onstage

What they don’t tell you up front:

• You don’t own the footage. They do.
• You don’t control the edit. They can cut it however they want.
• You don’t decide the story. They often cast you as a type: the underdog, the weirdo, the one who cries.

If you’re cool with being entertainment, fine. But if you want your act to speak for itself, this isn’t always the way.

Certain performers can use this as a shortcut

Some people really benefit from going on these shows. You might be one of them if:

• You don’t have a professional clip of your act and want a good one
• You’re great live but haven’t figured out how to showcase it online
• You’re breaking into a new market (e.g., you’re known locally but want to go national)
• You’ve got a weird or visual act that doesn’t translate well in print or photos

Other performers should probably stay away

You might want to skip it if:

• You already have a strong portfolio and pro footage
• You rely on surprise or mystery—once your act airs, that trick’s burned
• You want full control over how you’re presented
• You’re hoping to win (spoiler: you probably won’t)

These are the real pros and cons

PROS

• Free national exposure
• Fast, high-quality clip
• Can boost your bookings short-term
• Gives you a story to tell and credibility
• Chance to surprise people who underestimated you
• a new logo on your resume

CONS

• You give up control of your act and image
• They can make you look like a joke
• You don’t own the footage
• You can’t reuse your signature act as easily
• Low odds of winning anything

Winning isn’t the real win

The people who “win” these shows usually aren’t the ones who go the furthest in real life. Use the show as a tool. Go in with a plan. Know what you want out of it. Take the part that helps you

A professional web presence builds long-term success

If you want a career—not just a TV moment—make sure people can find you, trust you, and book you easily. A real website, a clear pitch, and a smooth booking process will do more for your life than waiting for your golden buzzer.

I help magicians and variety performers get that part handled. Clean, fast, no BS websites built around how you actually get gigs. I can most likely zoom with you for 1 hour. You prepare absolutely nothing and you have a website in a few days.

[Want that? Email me.] go@scot.fun