An extraordinary scene was orchestrated in the White House. Lights in the Oval Office were dimmed to show video clippings of purported genocide against whites to South African President Ramaphosa. Right in front of the television cameras, unfounded accusations were hurled at the visiting dignitary. The shameful spectacle was reminiscent of Ukrainian President Zelensky’s February visit, when he was humiliated in a similar fashion in the full glare of TV cameras.
The scriptwriter, lead actor and director of the scene were all rolled in one –the current occupant of the White House. Ever since Donald Trump assumed Presidency, the presidential setting has been transformed into a stage for reality TV—a genre that thrives on manufactured conflict, emotional outbursts, dramatic confrontations and unexpected events. News related to Trump often feels like watching a new episode of a reality TV , complete with drama, intrigue, suspense, and, of course, a generous dose of amusement mixed with theatrics.
Donald Trump’s public persona and behavior are perfectly aligned with reality TV, a parallel that can be directly drawn from his long tenure as a host of reality shows ‘The Apprentice’ and ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’. Much like a reality show producer, Trump keeps viewers ‘tuned in’ to his ongoing narratives. He deliberately makes provocative remarks, gives controversial statements, delivers sound bites, and engages in rhetorical battles to generate constant headlines. The dramatic flair in his announcements has the potential to make his every statement a spectacle. His sudden, unscripted pronouncements through his social media posts and direct-to-reporter statements generate significant media attention; much like a reality show thriving on public engagement.
Trump’s public appearances, much like his reality TV endeavors, are often melodramatic and steeped in showmanship. His speeches frequently resemble theatrical performances, emphasizing drama and conflict, whether to do with immigrants, tariffs, or Harvard University. Trump may lack the customary maturity of a statesman, but he undeniably possesses skill of a master performer who can craft a compelling narrative that blends entertainment with governance.
It is another matter that Trump’s crafted narrative often diverges from facts. Instead, he seems to thrive on falsehoods, manufacturing his own ‘truths’ and making exaggerated claims to create a forceful but distorted reality. On May 10, Trump took everyone by surprise when he announced ceasefire between India and Pakistan in a tweet, taking credit for mediation. He had been eying a Nobel Prize for supposedly averting a nuclear war. Now Trump does it again, abruptly announces truce between Israel and Iran on his social media platform. The reality is that Trump is a man with a big ego, fixated on a number of issues that he apparently believes only he can fix.
Just like the reality shows that are inherently designed to be unpredictable with twists and turns, there is considerable suspense surrounding Trump’s policies; one constantly guesses what he will say or do next. His obsession with reciprocal tariffs, for example, sent the world into a tizzy. However, Trump has been frequently going back and forth on his tariff announcements. Now there is heightened suspense as the 90-day pause on tariffs expires on July 9.
The ongoing ‘Trump Show’ possesses all the elements of a hit reality TV series —anticipation, suspense, and engagement—but with vastly significant real-world ramifications. If navigating a global stage that increasingly resembles a prime-time drama is a huge challenge for world leaders, then dealing with the show’s mercurial mastermind is even trickier.
(Published in Alive magazine by Delhi Press in July 2025)
Very truthful and bold analysis of Trump and his deeds.This unpredictable leader is predictably foolish. His work culture is effecting world order adversely. One thing is that TV shows are fictional but showmanship of this man is a crude reality.
Well said Neelam . Trump is actually predictably unpredictive . You never know what he is going to announce the next moment.
Thanks dear for sharing your candid opinion on the man .
Punjabi Movies after a long screening stints of Ghughi, Bina Dhillon and Bhalla are now a days looking for a new face for the comedian’s role. I think if dubbed suitably , Trump can fit into this comedians’s role with utmost perfection. Earlier I thought Zelenzky is the only comedian in politics. I was wrong and mistaken. There are two of them. Long Live America.
Narinder too good ! Trump may not fit into the definition of a comedian but he definitely is a comic figure!!
I sometimes wonder how Americans could choose him as their President, not once but twice.
Trump and his nuances are as unpredictable as any volcanic eruption . He might be big on showmanship but can’t be considered reliable leader.
That’s right . So unpredictable , and unreliable too
A candid take on Trump….the spoilt rich brat with his unpredictable politico-economic gimmicks….. sensitively felt ….very well expressed in strong condemnation! Keep it up dear Rama
Ever grateful to you dear Mrs Dhawan for your generous compliments. 🙏
Very well expressed Rama. Since the time he became the president in January, he thinks himself to be the king of the whole world. Everyday he comes up with something totally unpredictable. I think he has become a clownor the cartoon character Donald Duck. You have analysed him so well . Even the ducks must be ashamed of him.
Wow Alka ! Donald Duck – this is interesting. Never thought about it .
Absolutely, the way Trump behaves, at times he actually looks like a comic character. However, we can’t deny that he is most powerful man in the world being the President of the most powerful country in the world.
Your article.. Reality Show… Trump..
Is so comrhensive n elaborate…
That after reading twice..
I have no more words to add up..
Your search has made it transparent…
His body language..
Comics..
Strategy..
Political will..
Everything has been explained minutely..
In fact it seems so much Reality TV show that you forget here is a person with so much responsibility as that of President of America… Whom world awaits for leadership..
Why so much Nautanki…fate of countries are at stake at your policies..
President is simply a showcase of very hardcore selective committee of few members in America…. Very rigorously selected ine… If it is true … Trump is scapegoat..?????
But as always Rma your article captures every scene .. Meeting.. Speeches.. Tricks of Trump.. In zoomed n honest way..
Be blessed..
Thanks di for the comprehensive analysis. I feel honoured and humbled at the same time .
However, all credit goes to THE TRUMP for making it an interesting read . I have just tried to capture the drama which has been going on since January this year.
Di, you have put across your observations so beautifully, especially when you write ‘why so much of nautanki ?when .. ‘ This is Trump’s USP . He thrives on drama and theatrics.
During his campaigns Donald had given hope that he will stop the wars. But Rama, you put in a beautiful analogy that he is immersed in reality shows. Painted an adequate portrait of him in your article. 👍
Thanks Anshula for reading and leaving your comment.
Yes, Trump promised to end wars but he failed miserably. He is so unreasonable, unpredictable. Now he has directed his anger towards India for buying oil from Russia .Trump has slapped 25 % plus additional 25% on Indian goods . The drama continues..