Gender Politics and Performing for Fame in Big Brother Nigeria Reality Show

Existing studies have explored gender representation in reality shows, and the influence of such representations on viewers. In this study, I engage how female participants in romantic relationships on the Big Brother Nigeria reality show propagate and contest gender stereotypes. I answer the question: how have the propagation and contestation of extant gender ideologies been used to achieve fame and popularity on and beyond the show? I undertake a close reading of selected videos and comments from the Big Brother YouTube Channel across three editions of the show. I focus on the influence of showmance on the show’s competitors and how the female participants utilise their sexuality, gender identities, and gender stereotypes. I apply Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of agency towards analysing how female agency is negotiated within a space where men and women contest for fame and popularity. The analysis reveals that BBN is a field of cultural production where women’s choices are effectively intentional and strategic in their contestation for fame and success.