Reggie Yates’ ‘Make Me Famous’ has made him reflect on himself in a number of ways.
The 37-year-old screenwriter penned the drama – which sees washed-up reality star Billy struggle to balance the afterglow of fame, social media and tabloid gossip – following his three decades in the television industry, but now his relationship with fame has changed.
He said: "I’ve been on screen for 29 years this year, which makes me feel like a very old man! My relationship with fame, and the audience’s relationship with celebrity, have both changed. This is why this film has come at the best time for me. I understand my relationship with the audience so much more now than ever before because of social media.
"To be really honest I don’t think it is all bad. I do think there is something lovely about people seeing you on the street and having a conversation with you, like they are your friends, because they have grown up with you. I have a unique relationship with that audience, because it has been over such a long time. This project has caused me to reflect on myself in a lot of ways."
The former CBBC presenter – who has been working in the industry since he was eight years old – wrote the drama using his own experience on camera and after watching others struggle with fame.
He explained: "Reality TV is loved by those in it and those who watch it, but there are issues that come with that and this felt like an opportunity to tell a story which explores the relationship between reality TV, social media and fame. It’s been a year in the making but it’s great to finally share this film with the BBC Three audience, who I feel have grown up alongside me. Now, more than ever, it feels like this story needs to be told."