Reality TV Stars from Missouri

Missouri has had dozens of contestants in a variety of shows

Why are there so many Reality TV Stars from Missouri? There are likely some reasons you don’t often think about.

My TV agent once told me that there are so many network news anchors from Missouri. He explained that we don’t have a distinct look or identifiable accent. You see, Missouri sits at a cultural crossroads. It blends Midwestern, Southern, and urban influences, producing personalities that feel relatable but still distinctive. Missouri also has a mix of urban, suburban and rural populations, which casting directors often target because contestants from these areas are perceived as “everyday Americans” that audiences can connect with.

And it may also be partly a perception bias. That’s because a few memorable contestants from Missouri stand out, making the trend feel larger than it actually is.

Page 1: Bachelor/Bachelorette
Page 2: Survivor, Temptation Island
Page 3: American Idol, The Voice, Star Search
Page 4: Project Runway, The Amazing Race
Page 5: The Reel World, Top Chef, Big Brother

Bachelor/Bachelorette Contestants from Missouri

Click for Page 2