Boman Martinez-Reid Wants to Know What a Reality Star Looks Like (and Why He Loves Them So Much)

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As a journalist delving into the captivating world of entertainment and social media, I find myself utterly fascinated by the meteoric rise of individuals like Boman, who effortlessly navigate both the digital and traditional realms of fame. The convergence of the internet and television is not just a trend, but a seismic shift in how we consume content and perceive stardom.

Initially, Boman Martinez-Reid gained widespread attention due to a friend’s simulated cough, rather than his own.

The video he initially shared on his TikTok account @bomanizer at the start of the pandemic, labeled as the “cough heard everywhere,” showcased the 26-year-old Canadian content creator in a mock reality TV scenario where a gathering was interrupted by health concerns, including a dramatic interview and handheld footage capturing the ‘coughpocalypse.’

He now declares that the video had a profound impact on him,” he says. On TikTok, Martinez-Reid boasts over 2 million followers. Many are familiar with him due to “The Bodashians”, a series inspired by the Kardashians, which gained popularity following the success of the cough. Each installment features Boman Bodashian and his companions mimicking the slow vocal fry of Kim and her family. These videos have garnered over 150 million views.

Martinez-Reid, known for his knack for the dramatic and a keen sense of humor, has now added another feather to his cap as the maker of a fresh series titled “Made for TV“. This entertaining production finds him dabbling in six distinct types of reality television: dating shows, culinary competitions, news broadcasts, sports programs, drag competitions, and everyday life documentaries. The show was picked up by The Roku Channel on December 1.

With an ever-growing list of projects, it’s a challenge to categorize this emerging talent – should I call him a TikTok sensation, an influencer, a content creator, a host, an actor, a writer? He humorously refers to himself as a “pop star.” Yet, he chuckles and emphasizes that these titles don’t hold much significance. What truly matters to him is storytelling, and it seems his audience is captivated by the tales he weaves.

Below, Martinez-Reid chats with The Hollywood Reporter about his “The Bodashians” internet series, defending reality TV with his new show, Made for TV, the future of influencers in Hollywood and more.

Let’s talk the handle. Where did @bomanizer come from? 

As a child growing up, I’ve always been a devoted fan of the legendary Britney Spears. The moment she graced the stage at the 2007 VMAs left an indelible mark on my 9-year-old heart with the words “That’s my girl” echoing in my mind. The following year, her album “Circus” dropped, and one of its tracks, “Womanizer,” became a personal anthem for me. Due to a slight misunderstanding at recess where I was singing it as “Bomanizer,” the name stuck. To this day, Britney Spears remains a constant presence in my life, forever etched into my heart and playlists.

Beautiful. Does your love of reality TV go back just as far?  

It’s hard for me to recall the initial reality TV show I watched, as it seemed so deeply ingrained in my childhood experiences. However, I do remember catching glimpses of shows like “Pimp My Ride” and Tila Tequila when I shouldn’t have been (I was far too young). Meanwhile, my dad would tune into Spike TV, while my brother preferred those automotive repair shows, such as Antique Road Show. It felt like all these shows were constantly playing.

Back in high school, my then-boyfriend suggested a TV show titled “The Real Housewives“. At first, I was intrigued by his enthusiasm, and it turned out he was particularly fond of the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills“. Over time, I grew to truly admire the skill and creativity involved in producing these series.

What do you say to people who don’t see the value of reality TV? 

It’s quite simple to dismiss these shows as unrealistic, dull, or thoughtless, but it’s wiser to approach them with a more educated perspective. A woman I spoke with recently expressed her disdain for reality TV, claiming that no one on those programs possesses any talent. To which I gently replied, “Perhaps you haven’t considered the fact that there are numerous extremely talented individuals whose profession it is to make the people on those shows appear less talented?

When was your first inkling that you wanted to be part of those talented people?

From a young age, our family tradition involved watching the Anna Martinez Family Christmas Show after Christmas dinner, which resembled Saturday Night Live. Initially performed live, we later transitioned to using a camcorder and editing videos. This was where I picked up video editing skills. During my senior year in high school, when discussing career aspirations, I expressed a desire to have my own TV show. My brother suggested, “Why don’t you just create your own TV show?” Realizing I had the necessary skills in video editing and theater, I thought it was an inspired idea.

“The Bodashians” made you famous. How did that start?

In the year 2019, being on TikTok felt really uncool to me. At that time, I was dating someone who used TikTok – it was just so awkward, so embarrassing. My friends would tell me, “You need to break up with him, that’s just gross.” But I thought, “He’s really cute.” Then he became popular on TikTok and I thought, “Oh my God, he’s not even funny.” So if he can do it, I can too. And so, in February of 2020, I decided to join TikTok. As I spent more time there, I discovered that I had a knack for parodying reality TV shows. I thought, “What if I take everyday problems and condense them into a minute of dramatic reality TV?

As an expert, how would you say the genre has changed since you first started watching?  

In modern times, it’s challenging to produce a reality TV show that genuinely represents its intended purpose, as many participants seem more interested in gaining exposure than seeking authentic experiences. For instance, dating shows often appear to be less about finding love and more about getting a platform. This consciousness of the camera presence was not as prevalent during the MTV era. Our intention with Made for TV was to explore what a reality star might look like in this self-aware age, where they understand they’re creating a reality show under constant surveillance.

It appears you’re right in the heart of this question, given your role as an influential figure who earns through on-camera appearances and now hosts a television program. How would you categorize all these professional labels for yourself?

As a gamer, I’ve come to realize the creative landscape on platforms like TikTok can be quite confusing. You could be a content creator with minimal impact or an influencer who barely creates anything new. Yet, if we consider the term ‘creator’, it encompasses everyone from Charli D’Amelio to those crafting slime videos – a vast spectrum indeed! I see myself as a creator because that’s my passion. I yearn to create, to weave stories, and to bring characters to life through acting.

And they don’t seem mutually exclusive.

As a social media influencer and TikToker, if the opportunity arises for me to star in a TV show alongside other actors, it might seem strange when someone suggests, “Let’s give him a show!” It feels like an unexpected transition, as though people are only now realizing that I’ve been honing my acting skills for years. In reality, I’ve already been immersed in the world of acting for quite some time.

It seems like everyone in the entertainment industry can’t be admired equally. There’s always someone who holds a less glamorous role. While actors and behind-the-scenes workers put in immense effort on TV shows, the public perception of them differs significantly from that of influencers. Influencers, who consistently share their lives openly for entertainment purposes, also serve as a source of help and provide representation for those who lacked it in their formative years.

And Made for TV is about all that, isn’t it?

Playing with that aspect was an enjoyable experience since my online persona isn’t overly personal. Most people don’t truly understand me, and creating this show allowed us to explore that notion creatively. We found amusement in presenting a heightened version of myself that leaves viewers questioning, “Is this the real him? Does he act like this?

But what are the pragmatics for translating that discussion into a television show?

During the production of the show, I often found myself discussing how these productions are designed to appear effortless. When you’re watching shows like ‘Drag Race’, it might seem as if the queens are creating fabulous outfits that anyone could replicate easily. Similarly, when viewing cooking shows, the dishes may look subpar, and you might think, “Wow, I could definitely make something better than this!

Eventually, my showrunner, Natalie Metcalfe, acknowledged that being part of such shows could be challenging. From there, we delved deeper into discussions. The series, in essence, caters to the mindset often found in reality TV – that of an observer or a passenger.

And you get to offer commentary on a different genre with each episode.

fundamentally, it’s a heartfelt declaration. I’d rather not appear critical of reality television shows. Truth be told, I adore reality TV, I trust its authenticity, aspire to be part of it, and wish it continues to excel. I’m not aiming to demean it or bring it down.

So you’ve tried all the genres. Why do you think all these people keep signing up?

Such a thought-provoking query! It’s tricky to respond, as the motive behind my actions, and that of the Boman character, differ significantly from those typically seen in similar performances by others.

It seems like the focus of the discussion is on escapism, with the most extreme form being the experience of being part of the show itself. Take your chances and give it a try! This act could test one’s delusion in an intriguing way. It’s almost as if you have to be incredibly self-deluded to believe that you’re just as talented as anyone else, but then again, that self-delusion vanishes when it becomes undeniable fact that you are worthy of being on a show like this. I believe people crave visibility and support from their community.

Reality TV definitely feels like a great partner to niche communities.

As a gamer, I must say that “Drag Race” is simply amazing at nurturing stars in a unique way that other shows have struggled to do before. It’s fascinating how these shows serve as platforms for individuals seeking fame and career opportunities. Yet, it’s not unusual to hear comments about such pursuits. However, what stands out is the support for those who seize these opportunities and walk away with their well-deserved success.

One last question: You’ve got your foot in both worlds, so what’s the future of the internet and its relationship to TV?

It seems likely that we’ll witness influencers and content creators becoming increasingly prevalent across various traditional media platforms. This shift appears to be unavoidable, not limited to TV and film, but extending to billboards, advertisements, and commercials as well. In contrast to the shows airing during daytime television, I find myself knowing significantly more about the influencers I follow or the podcast hosts I listen to. However, a recent example of a creator appearing on daytime TV only came to my attention due to the internet.

I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the wave of fresh creators and talents in Hollywood who are making a difference and pushing boundaries. They’re not just revolutionizing the way content moves from platforms like TikTok to television, but also redefining what a career in entertainment looks like, managing to maintain visibility for an impressive five years straight. You’ve probably noticed this shift with figures like Kamala Harris appearing on shows like “Call Her Daddy,” and other influential individuals doing various podcasts. This trend towards taking things more seriously is intriguing, and I believe it will only become more intense.

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2024-12-10 18:55