Fame Academy on BBC has recently begun it’s second term. With the “who wants to be a pop star” reality TV genre bringing stiff competition, they have nastied up the format this year and thrown in a few TV twists that have not left the public singing a happy tune…

Just about every country on the planet have their own variation of this format going on. The social phenomena of our obsession with fame had audiences glued to their sets rooting for the wannabe of their choice. Myself, I’m partial to the BBC Fame Academy. This is the first of all the reality TV type programs that has caught my interest. But why? What sets this one apart?

Several things do it for me. Firstly, the hosts of the show who have terrific charisma and connect with the contestants. Next the teachers. There’s bad guy Richard who rarely has anything nice to say about anyone, Voice coaches Cary and David who really are tops in their field. And guest panelist, Robin Gibb who as part of the Bee Gees has been there and done that and knows first hand what it is to be and stay a pop star. Lastly there are the kids from Fame. What audiences don’t like is how they will only broadcast the 24/7 spy cam stuff on BBC’s digital channels. Bad luck for those of us who are still bound to an overpriced bad service cable company.

At the Fame Academy website you can check them out if you are not already up on the who’s who of the student body. I have my own personal favorite. Alex, a 19 rock Grrl who has already gotten the nickname “queen of angst” with that existential aura about her. Then there’s Peter, who although clearly aspires to be the love child of Liam Gallagher and Mick Jagger, is bursting with charisma and talent of his very own.

Check out Fame Academy (the next generation) on BBC 1 Wednesday and Saturday evenings (check your local listings for times) or Go to http://www.bbc.co.uk for more information.