I recently interviewed the lovely Torrei Hart of VH1’s Atlanta Exes and ex-wife of actor and comedian Kevin Hart and learned how to rock reality TV the right way. So if you are like many actors who are hesitant to go the reality TV route, here are some insights from my interview with the reality starlet before taking the reality leap.
How to Build Your Empire:Insights on how to rock reality TV
Insight #1: Use reality TV in a positive way
If you’re going to take the leap into the reality TV pond, be sure to stay positive and have an uplifting message and image. Even though the shows may highlight your most dramatic moments, you can deal with those moments in a positive way to be an example for others. People will also root for you when you are being positive and authentic.
Insight #2: Use reality TV as a platform to build your brand portfolio
Leverage your presence on a reality TV show into a platform for expanding your brand’s portfolio through endorsement deals, creating your own products, and launching your own lines. Torrei Hart is now the face of Skimpy’s Cherry Limeade and she actually created the flavor herself. We can also look to Bethenny Frankel who built her Skinny Girl empire based on her time as a reality star on The Real Housewives of New York City, and even hosted her own television show for awhile.
Insight #3: Use reality TV to gain notoriety to go from auditioning to getting offers
Torrei had been auditioning and taking classes but the offers didn’t start rolling in until the launch of the show. She is now getting offers for movie roles and started filming a new movie with Katt Williams this week. So use your fame while you have it to get other offers to further your acting career. But don’t forget that honing your craft and taking classes is still imperative to further your career so when you do get the offers, you are ready to jump in and deliver a great performance.
Bonus insight for how to rock your career, reality or otherwise
Know what you want to do, have a plan, do your research, know your market and target audience, and be prepared to do the work. When going for your dreams and goals, there will be many sleepless nights. I went to bed at 4am and woke up at 6am to get my kids to school. Be prepared to work hard and be ready to put the work in if you want to get the rewards.
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