Survivor Joins the HD Crowd

Those hungering for their reality TV to be in HD will be happy to hear this news.  One of the big boys will finally move into the High Definition world – Survivor.

The CBS reality show will move to HD starting with the 17^th competition this fall. CBS announced the news at the National Association of Broadcasters convention in Las Vegas.

So will this finally get the ball rolling for Reality TV in High Definition?

For the popular shows – Yes. Survivor joins American Idol, Dancing with the Stars and American Gladiators as the only reality shows to be shot in HD. While those shows are studio based, Survivor is shot out in the elements, often in difficult weather conditions. CBS credited advancements in HD camera reliability, as well as reduced costs in being able to bring the HD experience out into the elements.

While most network productions shot in studios are already in HD, don’t expect a plethora of new reality shows in HD. Higher costs for HD production continue to factor into the mix. Only established reality TV shows trusted to pull in ratings will be given the “HD Hall Pass.” High on the list for an upgrade is The Amazing Race.

Local programming in HD continues to expand across the country as cable companies and satellite TV providers upgrade their distribution capabilities. Current numbers have DIRECTV reaching 77 cities representing 76% of television households, while DISH Network reaches 43 local markets in HD.

by Written by Michael Brix on April 13, 2008 · 1 comment

tagged as american gladiators, american idol, cbs, dancing with the stars, hd, high definition, survivor, the amazing race in HDTV