M-Net to dish up diversity
M-NET has responded to criticism over claims that there is a lack of diversity on newly launched reality show My Kitchen Rules which left a sour taste in some viewers’ mouths on Sunday night.
In response to the criticism, the channel has promised more diversity among contestants and judges as the show unfolds.
M-Net’s head of publicity Lani Lombard assured viewers that people of different races would appear on the upcoming episodes of the show.
“My Kitchen Rules plays out in different phases. There are a total of 10 pairs of contestants in the show‚ as well two celebrity judges [David Higgs and J’Something] and several guest judges. Viewers will be introduced to the other five pairs, as well as a diverse group of guest judges, as the show progresses‚” she said.
Lombard added that viewers were only given a glimpse of the show on Sunday night and promised that they could expect “much more diversity”.
The show, which is based on its popular Australian counterpart‚ sees couples create an instant restaurant in their home and cook a three-course meal‚ which the judges and other contestants give them points on.
M-Net encouraged critics to continue watching the show‚ which would soon introduce contestants from different backgrounds.
“M-Net remains fully committed to showcasing the talent of SA’s diverse population across its multiple channels. As the show unfolds‚ there will be greater diversity. We encourage critics to continue to watch the show. The contestant pairings include home cooks from different backgrounds‚” Lombard said.
Here are some of the people who expressed concern over the lack of “representation” on social media.
@s_murugi writes: So disappointed that in #MKRSA there is NO person of colour. It’s not a true reflection of the variety of foods this country has to offer.
@nomorebullSA writes: @DStv watching @mykitchenrules South Africa & for some reason all the contestants are white. Is this not SA? Am I missing something? #MKRSA — DDC