Identity signs in the kitchens of tele-reality: a semiotic analysis of two television formats

Abstract

The article analyzes identity as a sign process such as it is represented in two formats of gastronomic reality show. Our approach is based on the triadic semiotic model of C. S. Peirce. Colapietro´s interpretation of the self, based on Peirce’s work, is another central element of our discussion. Through a qualitative and comparative methodology, we study three gastronomic entertainment programs: Masterchef España 2013, Masterchef Argentina 2015 and La Comanda (Uruguay) 2013. These TV shows were chosen because they belong to a hybrid genre of reality and talent show. With a qualitative perspective, we attempt to explain that the production of these different formats generates a structure in which either component (reality show or talent show) prevails. The semiotic analysis describes a kind of self which is thematized by the structure of each one of the studied formats. To accomplish this, we analyze the judges’ behaviour, the soliloquies as well as the rest of the elements that are part of the “ritualization” (Erving Goffman) of these formats insofar as they generate identities. Lastly, we focus on the “glocal” (Ronald Robertson) aspects that belong to the chosen formats, as they serve to highlight the identity features that are part of the nation where the program is broadcasted.