Title: 90 Day Fiance: Before The 90 Days Season 6: Setting New Representation Milestones
Introduction (100 words)
The current season of the hit reality TV show, 90 Day Fiance: Before The 90 Days, has made significant strides in representation. Two cast members, Sheila and David, are breaking new ground as the franchise’s first deaf participant and first trans woman, respectively. These casting choices have raised important questions about the selection process and the inclusion of marginalized individuals in the show. In this article, we will explore the insights shared by casting director Brooklyn Bagwell, delve into the unique stories of David and Sheila, and examine the challenges they face in their relationships.
Developing a Diverse Cast (300 words)
Casting director Brooklyn Bagwell shares that each season of 90 Day Fiance aims to represent a variety of people to avoid repetitive storylines. The inclusion of David, the first deaf cast member, is a testament to this commitment. Bagwell explains that David’s captivating story, beyond his disability, made him a compelling choice for the show. Through David’s journey, the series sheds light on the challenges he has faced in the past due to his deafness, both in relationships and in navigating the hearing world. David’s love interest, Sheila, who is hard of hearing and uses a hearing aid, adds another layer of complexity to their story. Their reliance on translator Aimee highlights potential roadblocks that could arise in their relationship if Sheila does not learn American Sign Language (ASL).
Cleo’s Unique Story (300 words)
Another groundbreaking addition to the cast is Cleo, the franchise’s first trans woman. Bagwell expresses admiration for Cleo, highlighting her beauty and acknowledging the need to stay relevant by featuring diverse stories. More than just being a trans woman, Cleo also shares her journey of being autistic, which has played a significant role in the season thus far. The show explores Cleo’s relationship with her partner, Christian, who has previously only dated cisgender women. Christian’s trip to the UK brings to light the societal challenges they face, as some of his relatives express disapproval and pose troubling questions about their relationship. Additionally, concerns arise about the compatibility of their personalities and whether they can truly enjoy spending time together.
Public Reception and Challenges (200 words)
While Cleo and David’s casting marks important milestones, it has also sparked mixed reactions among viewers. The introduction of Gabriel Paboga, the franchise’s first trans man in The Other Way Season 4, received a more positive response compared to Cleo. This discrepancy may stem from the fandom’s historically misogynistic tendencies towards female cast members. The article also sheds light on the casting process, which can take several months and involves reviewing numerous audition tapes. Notably, Bagwell finds Big Ed Brown, a controversial cast member, to be likable, showcasing the complexities of casting choices and audience preferences.
Conclusion (100 words)
The latest season of 90 Day Fiance: Before The 90 Days has demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusivity in its casting choices. By featuring David, the first deaf participant, and Cleo, the first trans woman, the franchise has expanded its representation of marginalized individuals. The stories of David and Sheila as well as Cleo and Christian delve into the challenges they face in their relationships and shed light on broader societal issues. Despite mixed reactions from viewers, the casting decisions showcase a step towards creating a more representative and authentic reality TV landscape.
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