Last week Channel Seven announced that they would be partnering with British broadcaster E4 to produce Made in Bondinew structured reality show inspired by success Made in Chelsea In Great Britain.
The series, set to premiere in 2024, will “follow the lives and loves of Sydney’s young social elite” and will give viewers “a front row seat to partying, fashion and romance.”
“From trendy bars to opulent harborside mansions, this group of young socialites will navigate the interconnected web of relationships that define their lives,” the network said in a statement.
While fans of the long-running British series Made in Chelsea may be excited by the announcement that an Australian version is in development, many Sydney residents have expressed concerns that the show will be an “unrealistic” representation of the eastern suburbs.
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Jean, a 40-year-old mother who has lived in Bondi all her life, says: Yahoo Lifestyle: “The last thing Bondi needs is more unrealistic media reinforcing these stereotypes (that everyone here is an influencer).
“It’s one of Sydney’s most diverse suburbs with such a strong sense of community, but it’s never emphasized.”
“Titled Rich Kids”
Pilar, who works at a cafe near Bondi Beach, adds that the “real Bondi” is families, tourists and people of all ages and nationalities enjoying the hot weather together.
British expat Jake Leach agrees, saying: “Bondi is not defined by a handful of cosmetically enhanced, rich kids craving attention.”
The show was also criticized by locals on social media after it was announced, with one person commenting: “Australian media is becoming more Sydney-centric and less relevant every day.”
“The real elite won’t be caught off guard doing this,” another added, while a third poked fun at Bondi stereotypes and wrote: “I wonder if it’ll just be cokes, kale smoothies and influencers?”
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In addition to Made in BondiSeven announced at their Upfront 2024 event last week that their upcoming slate of new reality shows includes Stuck on honeymoon island from the creators MAFS, First datesand controversial Big Brother Uncut.
Dr. Chris Brown is also set to host a new animal series called Once in a lifetime and a series of renewal competitions Dream House, and join Sonia Kruger as co-host Dancing with the Stars.
Meanwhile, popular reality shows that will return next year include: Farmer Wants a Wife, The Voice, Australian Idol, SAS Australia, Big Brother And My kitchen rules.
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