Romesh Ranganathan Joins Celebrity Traitors: Family Pressure and Entertainment Strategy
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- Komika asal Inggris Romesh Ranganathan mengungkap alasan di balik keputusannya tampil di musim kedua The Celebrity Traitors BBC.
- Keputusan ini mengejutkan lingkaran terdekatnya, terutama sang ibu yang menuntut kemenangan, berbeda dari sikap santai Romesh.
- Fenomena ini menyoroti bagaimana acara realitas berbasis strategi semakin menjadi tontonan keluarga yang memengaruhi keputusan publik figur.
Romesh Ranganathan, a 48-year-old British comedian, surprisingly accepted an offer to appear in the second season of the BBC reality show The Celebrity Traitors. The decision surprised not only the public but also his family and friends, who had long known him as a loyal viewer rather than a participant.
In an interview with the BBC, Romesh admitted that he himself had never imagined he would join. "I think everyone was surprised because a lot of my friends and family didn't expect me to appear on a show like this," he said. He explained that The Celebrity Traitors had become a family viewing ritual they looked forward to, a rare moment amid busy schedules. "Contrary to popular belief, I watch a lot of things and don't immediately ask to take part," he added.
The biggest push actually came from his youngest son, who was eager to see his father in action. "So, it's kind of his fault," Romesh joked. Even so, he stressed his intention to have fun rather than chase a win. However, his mother had different expectations. "My mum is classic. 'You have to win. You must win!' Those weren't words of encouragement, they were a demand," he said.
The difference in attitude between Romesh and his mother reflects a dynamic that often occurs in the families of reality show viewers. His mother even said she would think about Romesh's victory every day. "She said, 'You have to win. I'll pray every day that you win.' But there's no need for that. We're just going to have fun," Romesh said.
Romesh also pointed out that his mother had never watched his appearances on Live at the Apollo because she is not a fan of stand-up comedy. "But for this show, she cares. This is a show she actually watches," he explained. This phenomenon shows how reality shows like The Traitors have become popular culture that reaches a broad demographic, including older people who usually do not follow mainstream entertainment.
"I just want to play and have fun, but my mother wants me to win. Those are two different things," Romesh said, describing the pressure he faces.
In Indonesia, a similar phenomenon can be seen in reality shows such as Indonesian Idol or The Voice, which often become family viewing. The participation of public figures in such shows not only boosts ratings but also strengthens family bonds through the activity of watching together. However, family pressure to win can be a double-edged sword, affecting a participant's experience.
Romesh's presence on The Celebrity Traitors also marks a career shift for a comedian usually identified with the stand-up stage. He acknowledged that the decision was driven more by emotional and family factors than professional ambition. This aligns with a global trend in which celebrities are increasingly open about showing their personal side through reality shows.
Going forward, will Romesh's participation change the public's perception of him as a comedian? Or will it instead reinforce his image as a relatable figure? What is clear is that the second season of The Celebrity Traitors will be a proving ground for Romesh, not only in the eyes of viewers but also in front of his mother, who demands a win.
