The prizes offered on a reality show can vary wildly depending on budget or network constraints, and many will be familiar to the average viewer.
Money is expected, whether in the thousands or even the millions, or an investment in a small business.
Physical objects, a new car, an all-expense paid trip to a luxury destination, or even just a trophy.
A combination of these things can be great incentives for our hopeful contestants, but talent competitions tend to operate differently.
Pop Idol and its many international descendants or copy-cats, such as The Voice or X-Factor, promise the same thing: The combination of a cash prize and a record deal which is usually less glamorous than promised, especially in 2023.
However, when you go a little more niche you can get an even more particular prize: A starring role.
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