The Enduring Popularity of Wowowee
Often maligned by critics as pimping the less fortunate segments of Philippines society and aiding and abetting supposedly negative aspects of Filipino culture, Wowowee’s popularity has long endured years of controversy. Regardless of whether critics and observers like it or not, Wowowee has become a significant cultural phenomenon. Here is one fairly positive and objective (well, we try!) essay on what what makes Wowowee so popular:
Wowowee is a noon-time television show airing in the Philippines on local television channel ABS-CBN. It is also aired internationally through the network’s The Filipino Channel. Since premiering on the 5th of February 2005, Wowowee has become one of the most popular broadcasts in the Philippines and among Filipino communities abroad. In fact, the show has taken a number of tours around the world, broadcasting live in front of sold-out crowds in the United States, Australia, Guam, Canada, and Dubai. The television show and its main host, Willie Revillame, have endured numerous controversies, including the breakout of a stampede that led to the deaths of 73 people and the injury of over 300 people during Wowowee’s first anniversary celebration at the PhilSports Complex. So, what makes Wowowee so popular that it is followed and loved by millions of people around the world?
Appeal to the audience
Every show, performance, or broadcast out there has a main goal of appealing to its target audience, but Wowowee takes this concept to a whole new level. Catering to the Filipino masses, Wowowee gives its audience a shot at becoming a star on the show. Contestants are given the chance to share their story, show their talents, and join in on the fun and games that the program has lined up for the day. Because the contestants come from those who are pre-qualified as well as those who are in the live audience, it gives the audience and viewers the feeling that they can become contestants themselves at any moment, getting a chance to be seen and heard by the millions who tune in to the show. This gives people the idea that Wowowee is sympathetic to their situation and that the show wants to help others.
Big prizes
Another factor that contributes greatly to the success and popularity of Wowowee is the huge prizes that they give out during every episode. Contestants have the chance to win cash prizes of up to one million pesos, not to mention fully furnished houses and lots. The allure of easy money, big prizes, and the thought that anyone can win plays a central role in the popularity of Wowowee.
Appealing to the Filipino culture
Wowowee also does a great job at appealing to Filipino pop culture, so much so that it has become a part of the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. The show often discusses various aspects of news and media, including current events and gossip about actors and actresses. Also, Wowowee caters to various elements of Filipino culture such as the concepts of overseas Filipino workers (OFW), balikbayans, and original Pinoy music (or OPMs, such as those of host Willie Revillame and the various co-hosts and guest appearances on the show). Wowowee has undoubtedly become an integral part of Filipino pop culture,and it is no wonder why the show has garnered unbridled and enduring popularity.
Related questions:
1. Why do others think that Wowowee is exploiting the poor?
2. What is the most popular segment in Wowowee?
3. How can I become part of Wowowee’s live audience?
4. What are the other countries visited by Wowowee?
5. Why are noon time shows popular in the Philippines?
Related posts:
The Phenomenal Wowowee – Wowowee as a very touching show
Wowowee’s International Popularity – All about Wowowee’s popularity
Wowowee in US – All about Charice Pempengco’s performance on Wowowee