What is a reality agreement?

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Network and cable television producers negotiate with directors, actors and writers over how much the staff and performers on different types of shows should be paid. The Directors Guild of America has created a "reality agreement" to cover the terms for reality-show directing.

Definitions

The DGA agreement defines a reality show as an "unscripted" show with real people, yet with manipulated circumstances and staged elements. "Survivor," "Big Brother," "Fear Factor" and "The Simple Life" would be covered by the agreement.

Exemptions

Game shows or variety shows--such as "Star Search," "American Idol" or "The Price is Right"--are not covered by reality agreements.

Terms

Under the agreement, reality shows pay directors the same salary and residual rates as regular television. This rate is a minimum of $5,337 per show, for a maximum of four days work, including editing.

Staffing

The agreement requires a director to be present for the filming on every episode. Exceptions are allowed in shows which do not entail "talent or performance instruction."

Basic Cable

Reality shows for basic cable work differently. Salaries, working conditions and residuals are "completely negotiable."

Source:

DGA: Directors' Agreement

More Information:

Museum of Broadcast Communications: Reality Programming

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What is a reality agreement?

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