What is Linda Ikeji's 'raunchy' reality TV series really about?

chibumga izuzu

August 14, 2018 4:52 PM

Viewers were promised a show similar to Big Brother Naija, but 'Made in Gidi' is nothing like the popular reality TV show.

On July 12,

Just like Big Brother Naija, the show features a number of men and women - seven women and five men - living together in a house with no laptops, no phones or television.

Prior to its debut, Ikeji asked viewers to expect drama, friendship, love, tears, backbiting, pulling of wigs, and maybe sex.

However, it has been weeks since the show made its debut on the online streaming platform Linda Ikeji TV, and it has been more popular for its raunchiness than entertainment value.

It has elicited several reactions since its debut - mostly negative - and according to Linda Ikeji, she understands where the disapproval is coming.

But it's just a business move. In an Instagram post, the media entrepreneur explained that to succeed in the business world, one must be better than rivals and know what the market wants.

In other words, the Nigerian TV audience wants shows like "Made in Gidi."

But "Made in Gidi" is no Big Brother Naija. Unlike the latter, there's no voting, entertaining games, evictions or winner.

There's absolutely no connection between the viewers and the housemates. Viewers aren't able to relate with any of the contestants because they are a projection of themselves, a friend, or colleague; or a reflection of certain behaviours that they can only exhibit behind closed doors.

Their stories are not known. There's no way to connect.

While the Big Brother Naija could appeal to Nigerians for several reasons - relationships and sex; an insight into how the human mind works; and game strategy - "Made in Gidi" hasn't exactly defined what its appeal is.

Almost all the clips used for promoting the season have been sexual. One of the clips sees past Big Brother Naija housemate Bassey making out with a 'Made in Gidi' housemate in what was described as the 'Shag Room.'

In another clip, a housemate is seen seemingly giving oral sex to a fellow housemate.

Twitter reactions to 'Made in Gidi'