If you haven’t already, take a minute (1:48, actually) and watch the latest PBS advertising spots that take aim at the current glut of reality-based television series. They are well-written, well-produced and, well, they will make you laugh:

“Long Island Landscapers”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mORFheJMUEA

“Clam Kings”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAdcV5IZM8Y

“Meet the Tanners”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-j9_SPQvns

This is actually PBS’ second jab at reality TV this year. Back in May, they came out with a series of similarly themed poster ads that featured fake shows such as “Bayou Eskimos” and “Knitting Wars” on imaginary television networks ILA and TCN. Each ad features the payoff line “The fact you thought this was a real show says a lot about the state of TV” to let viewers know that these are, in fact, not real.

While the commercials are excellent, PBS is pretty accurate in their assumption, as well: any one of these fake shows could probably slide right into the prime time cable line-up on a weeknight and fit right in. Such is the state of TV. Either way, kudos to PBS advertising for some real marketing savvy and, of course, for continuing to fight the good fight. With all the press, I hope donations are up!