The Secret Millionaire is a new reality series on ABC where rich people go undercover to the most impoverished neighborhoods in America. They spend a week living, working and interacting with the community — while also lying about their identity. Then, the Secret Millionaire gives away a large sum of money, normally around hundreds of thousands of dollars.

This show has generated some controversy. On one hand, wealthy individuals are giving away their own money to help change other people’s lives for the better. Critics, however, say that ABC may be exploiting the poor people’s circumstances just for the sake of creating a hit TV show and that the Secret Millionaires don’t really care about the people they are helping. They are giving away their money just to create good PR and generate publicity.

Although there are some character flaws that go into the making of The Secret Millionaire and almost any reality TV show, I think this show is a step in the right direction for television. The Secret Millionaires — even if they might not have completely altruistic motivations — are making a positive impact in people’s lives who really do need a break. The recipients are also grateful to receive the help. Additionally, in order for any show to get viewers, it has to be somewhat dramatic and resonate with an audience. The show’s unique concept, especially during a turbulent economy, is touching upon a lot of people’s anxieties about finances and more importantly a hope that there are genuinely good people in the world who are willing to reach out to those in need. It also demonstrates that are financial circumstances, no matter how dire they appear, can change overnight.

Secret Millionaire is on ABC on Sundays at 8/7 c.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 10th, 2012 at 8:44 am and is filed under Television. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.