Other than Confession, which we have already discussed, there are several other religious elements that can be found in reality shows. For example, almost every religions has at least one major initiation ceremony, such as bat mitzvahs or confirmation. There are several reality shows, such as "Survivor" and "Big Brother", who have their own initiations that very closely mimic these types of traditions. "Survivor", in fact, has been accused of being overtly religious to the point of alienating some of it's audience, often featuring contestants who are very religious and continuously refer to their faith as their reason for getting through the competition and attempting to impose their views on other contestants. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, "Survivor" host Jeff Probst insisted that "Survivor isn't 'religious-based'. It's a reality show. Some of these people are religious and do actually believe God has a favourite in [the show] (http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/10/27/jeff-probst-episode-7-survivor-south-pacific/)." However, it is hard to overlook that, as the original reality competition series, "Survivor" has been emulated in literally dozens of other shows over the years - religious motifs included.
"Top Chef" and "Project Runway" have both had All-Stars seasons - "Project Runway: All Stars" is the current season that is airing now. The idea behind these seasons is to bring back past contestants from previous seasons who the hosts or judges believe deserve to compete again after not winning the first time around. This is a belief that is parallel to many people's religious beliefs - they everyone deserves a second chance as long as they resolve their issues and redeem themselves. In addition, "Survivor" has "Redemption Island" and "Top Chef" had "Last Chance Kitchen" on their recent All-Stars season, which are like side competition occurring at the same time as the main series when eliminate contestants get a second chance to show that they deserve to compete again. The concept of redemption is present in Christianity, Buddhism, and Judaism as a way for sinners to repent and be accepted by their respective higher power once again.
