Reversal trend
Vietnamese reality TV was once a "gold mine" of ratings, where audiences eagerly waited for each episode to watch the controversies, conflicts and fiery dramas between the contestants. But by 2025, this trend is reversing. The audience is gradually moving away from dramatic "fake" shows, towards more positive and healthy content.
The new season of Vietnams Next Top Model 2025 is a typical example of the decline of the view-catching trick motif. After many years of existing thanks to the old formula - staging conflicts, causing shock statements, and controversial challenges, the program seems to no longer attract the attention of the audience. Although the producer tried to "new things" with conflicts between judges and contestants, the media effect was lackluster. Social media comments show that most viewers feel "afraid", thinking that the tricks are outdated.
The number of interactions of behind-the-scenes clips, teasers and broadcast episodes of this program on the YouTube platform is not high. The hashtags related to the program are no longer in the trend list as before, reflecting the change in tastes of Vietnamese viewers.
Not only stopping at model contests, humorous reality shows, travel and survival are also facing similar reactions. Recently, the program "2 days 1 night" episode 81 was heavily criticized after member Le Duong Bao Lam covered the food surface. This is an action that is considered offensive and potentially dangerous if children follow in their footsteps. Many viewers believe that some TV shows are now lacking in sophistication, trying to create proposchy " highlights" instead of focusing on quality content.
When the audience seeks positive value
At the same time as "noisy" programs are gradually losing their appeal, audiences are paying attention to programs that are healing, humane or honor human efforts.
One of the most mentioned phenomena recently is "Gia vu ngan" - a program revolving around warm, humorous and intimate moments between artists. Without arguing, without staging, Gia vu ngan creates a true feeling of relaxation after tiring working hours.
Viewers find there sincerity, a gentle smile and a message about family love. In addition, a series of intellectual and strength competitions such as "Sao nhap ngu" or "Brave Soldier" also received positive feedback. Not only entertaining, these programs also inspire a positive life, helping young people better understand the spirit of discipline, resilience and team spirit.
In particular, the recent season of "Sao nhap ngu" has had a sharp increase in the number of online viewers, clips about the training backstage, harsh challenges and touching moments between artists and soldiers all spread strongly on social networks.
This shift shows a new trend of Vietnamese reality TV in 2025: The audience no longer watches to "count stories", but watches to find true emotions and mental balance. After a period of crisis in confidence in showbiz due to too many scandals and tricks, the public is returning to core values - sincerity, simplicity and humanity.
It can be seen that "the time of tricks has passed". To survive, producers are forced to understand the psychology of viewers and create more realistic content, instead of relying on drama to "report".
In fact, "healing" programs not only attract viewers of all ages but have also become a bright spot in post-pandemic television culture. In the context of a stressful modern life, viewers need space to relax, laugh and feel kind. That is why the light, active program line is gradually dominating the prime time airwaves.
