Netflix is really trying hard to become the undisputed king of reality shows. The recently concluded hot-dog eating contest, titled “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef”, between Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi is just another proof of how serious the streamer is when it comes to solidifying its position in the world of reality television. Netflix left no stone unturned to promote this competition. Apart from actor Rob Riggie, the event also featured many talents from WWE, including superstars Rey Mysterio and Omos. WWE’s own Nikki Garcia hosted the event.
Chestnut defeated Kobayashi in a 10-minute hot dog eating contest at Hyper X Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Monday. The former devoured 83 hot dogs and buns, shattering his previous record of 76, which he achieved in 2021. Kobayashi managed to eat only 66 hot dogs.
Joey Chestnut beats Takeru Kobayashi AND his own World Record with 83 hot dogs in 10 minutes. #ChestnutVSKobayashi pic.twitter.com/ThF9GSkWQF
— netflix⁷ (@netflix) September 2, 2024
How serious Netflix actually is about growing its presence in the reality TV genre is highlighted by the fact that the streamer has substantially reduced its scripted content in recent years. According to a study from researcher Ampere Analysis, the streamer has reduced its percentage of scripted content from 70% to nearly 50% in the last five years. This indicates a shift in their content strategy, with a greater emphasis on reality TV and other non-scripted formats.
Netflix’s shift towards reality TV is a strategic move to stay competitive in the crowded streaming market. With more rivals vying for subscribers, Netflix is trying hard to stand out. Reality TV offers a cost-effective alternative to scripted shows, which require substantial financial investment and effort. While it may not deliver the same blockbuster viewership as hit series like “Wednesday,” “Stranger Things,” and “Bridgerton,” reality TV can provide a steady stream of viewers.
In May 2024, Netflix announced its new slate of upcoming reality shows, marking the return of Perfect Match (Season 2), The Mole (Season 2), Too Hot To Handle (Season 6), The Ultimatum: Queer Love (Season 2), and The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On (Season 3). In addition to these popular titles, the streamer announced some new upcoming reality shows, such as Owning Manhattan, Selling the City, Love Is Blind: UK, Million Dollar Secret, Battle Camp, and Building the Band. Speaking of the UK’s edition of Love Is Blind, the show has found its spot on Netflix’s Top 10 most-watched list. As of August 25, the show has consistently ranked among the top 10 most-watched shows for three weeks, demonstrating the increasing popularity of reality TV on the streaming platform. Stay tuned for more updates.