Reality programs have changed the makeup of television offerings. This seemingly ever-expanding segment of the market is incredibly diverse. With that framework in mind, it should not be surprising that someone is pitching the idea of a show called “Save Me!”
“Save Me!” has been characterized as being something like “The 700 Club” meets “Real Time with Bill Maher” meets “Big Brother.” The show is the idea of self-proclaimed “spiritual anthropologist” Jim Henderson, who has over two decades of ministry experience and over a decade of experience creating and leading Off the Map. According to Henderson, the show would:
bring people with a wide variety of religious beliefs such as fundamentalist Christians, Campus Crusade for Christ, Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, militant Atheists, end of world “warners” and Hare Krishna practitioners, etc. together in one house.
We want true believers who will go to any length to spread their message, whether that’s saving people from hell, warning people about the end of the world or simply “saving” people from religion altogether.
Actors need not apply! We want real practitioners — people who are willing and able to spend several weeks living in close quarters with others for no pay while spreading a personal faith message to millions of people.
So What?
Quite honestly, my first response to the show was “save me!” from Henderson’s show. In reality, no saving will likely be required since his original call for video auditions on YouTube yielded just six responses by the September 6 deadline. However, this would-be entrepreneur is continuing his quest and has extended the deadline. Those interested can begin the audition process immediately and we can all view a few sample audition videos.
In general, I support efforts that seek to bring together those of varying faiths for meaningful dialogue and initiatives that seek to increase the religious literacy of those who participate. Perhaps a show such as this would encourage conversation.
- If invited, would you be a participant on “Save Me!” (or a similar show)? Why or why not?
- Do you think this type of reality tv would be effective in generating increased discussion about and interest in religious matters by its viewers?