The NFL has often been called “the most dramatic reality show on TV,” and now a group of reality TV all-stars is out to prove that fact.
Peacock, NBC Sports and the NFL are teaming up for a reality-themed simulcast of the Dec. 7 game between the Houston Texans and the Kansas City Chiefs. Dubbed “Reality Hot Seat,” the alternate broadcast will stream on Peacock and NFL+ and feature several reality stars commentating on the game in real time.
“Reality Hot Seat” will feature panelists including “Boston Rob” Mariano (“Survivor,” “The Traitors”), Heather Gay (“The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” “Surviving the Mormons with Heather Gaye”), TV and podcast host Justin Sylvester, and Kate Chastain (“Below Deck,” “The Traitors”). The four will broadcast live play of the game, but it will be structured as an unscripted event and will include their views for reality TV fans.
“Reality Hot Seat” will air that night at 8pm ET on Peacock and NFL+. Fans who don’t want reality commentary can still watch the game through regular NBC Sports broadcasts on NBC, Peacock and NFL+.
“‘Reality Hot Seat’ brings together two of our greatest passions: football and reality television, both filled with drama, strategy and a passionate and loyal following,” said Frances Berwick, chairman of Bravo/Peacock Unscripted. “We’re not reinventing the game; we’re just looking at it through a different lens that leans into the unscripted storylines that are already happening on the field. And with our host lineup, we’ve drafted the perfect team to make that happen at Peacock.”
That’s why Obsessed Productions is producing “Reality Hot Seat.” Jenny Slater and Bobby Mahnke will serve as executive producers.
“This is a dream come true for football fans and reality TV fans alike,” said Jackie Chan, director of media strategy and business development for the NFL. “We are excited to partner with NBC and Peacock for an exciting and unique presentation of Sunday Night Football that will reach new audiences and showcase our star players on and off the field.”
More details about “Reality Hot Seat” will be shared at BravoCon this weekend. There, the Sunday Night Football/“Reality Hot Seat” activation “Throw More Than Shade” allows fans to pick up a bedazzled soccer ball and aim at reality TV-inspired targets to win “Reality Hot Seat” merchandise.
Here’s a description of the “Reality Hot Seat”: “Whether it’s breaking down the sideline tensions of a ‘Real Housewives’ dinner party, comparing quarterback-receiver chemistry to a ‘Love Island’ coupling, or dissecting a coaching call worthy of a ‘Traitor’s” sit-down, ‘Reality Hot Sheet’ delves into the dirt that’s unfolding on the field – the calls, reactions and emotions that will have viewers talking on Monday morning. We’ve got surprises, special guests and special sneak peeks. Peacock’s ‘Reality Hot Seat brings the most fun watch party to your living room. ”
Altcasts of unique and unusual pro football games have become more frequently broadcast in recent years as the NFL looks to grow and expand its fan base. Last year, ABC and ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” transformed into “The Simpsons” on Disney+ through “The Simpsons Funday Football.” CBS and Nickelodeon are also collaborating on several NFL altcasts, including the “SpongeBob SquarePants” show.
The key art for “Reality Hot Seat” is as follows:
