Reggie Yates is writing a factual drama for the BBC based on the suicides of former ‘Love Island’ contestants and ‘The Jeremy Kyle Show’ guests.
The 36-year-old presenter is making his writing debut on the programme ‘Killed By My Fame’, an hour-long special for BBC Three, which will explore the "brutal side of reality TV" and things like "instant fame, toxic masculinity, social media and suicide" which can come from appearing on these types of shows.
Discussing his new project, Yates, 36, said: "Growing up in television I’ve continued to be fascinated by the evolution of reality TV. I’ve often questioned how affecting whirlwind fame can become once the cameras are gone. All too often the audience sees the glamour and popularity that comes with being in the public eye, but in this drama we explore the true impact instant fame can have. I’m delighted to be partnering with BBC Three for my television writing debut and having a further creative voice as an executive producer."
The DJ’s story will follow the life of a reality star who after making it on television finds their life spiralling downwards once the attention fades.
The new programme comes just a few months after the DCMS launched an inquiry into reality TV’s duty of care towards participants following the tragic suicides of Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon, who both appeared on ITV2 reality dating show ‘Love Island’.
Daytime series ‘The Jeremy Kyle Show’ – famous for its rows and lie detector tests – was axed by ITV in May following the death of Steve Dymond, who ended his life one week after filming an episode of the series.
Reggie Yates writing Killed By My Fame for BBC
