Textual analysis of localization strategies, audience identity construction, and understanding of a global format reality TV show in China

The Voice of China, a 12-year continuously aired singing talent show, holds a crucial role in localizing and interacting with the audience in the Chinese media market within the realm of global format reality TV shows. Despite a certain degree of scholarly attention to The Voice of China, existing research has not comprehensively delved into the program’s comprehensive development in terms of localization and audience interaction from 2012 to 2023. This study aims to investigate the specific localization strategies adopted by The Voice of China from 2012 to 2023, explore the diverse forms of identity developed by local audiences participating in the program, and understand the unique perspectives of Chinese audiences regarding this global reality TV program. Textual analysis of the 169 episodes of The Voice of China broadcast over the past 12 years and semi-structured interviews of 14 Chinese audiences offer comprehensive insights to gain an in-depth understanding of the localization of global format reality TV shows in the Chinese context. In the realm of localization strategies, the study reveals that The Voice of China has employed a series of cultural negotiation strategies. For example, this includes actively showcasing contestants with ethnic minority backgrounds to show Chinese cultural diversity and adapt to the Chinese market. Additionally, the program has implemented a set of policy negotiation strategies, such as restricting voting rights exclusively to indoor audiences and judges to comply with the requirements of the State Administration of Radio and Television. This study also uncovers insights into audience identity formation and their understanding of the program. While watching the show, audiences establish three forms of identity: fan identity, cultural identity, and national identity. Local audiences’ understanding of this format reality TV is the final focus of this research. When watching the program, audiences immerse themselves in the narrative of dreams, perceiving it as a high-quality show. However, this positive perception coexists with their discernment of the shadows and controversies within the program. The audience learn about the unfairness in the program through the Internet, which makes them realize the illusion of the talent show. In conclusion, the localization process of The Voice of China is dynamic, with the textual analysis of its content and interviews with target audiences offering insights into how global reality shows adapt in China.

Text FBMK 2024 70 - Full Text.pdf Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives. Download (2MB) Text FBMK 2024 70.pdf Restricted to Repository staff only Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives. Download (3MB)

Actions (login required)

View Item