The “Vanderpump Rules” Effect: How Reality TV is Redefining Career Ambition and the Side Hustle
The churn of cast members on Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules isn’t just about relationship drama; it’s a microcosm of a larger shift in how young adults approach careers. While the show has always showcased the hustle of servers and bartenders, Season 12 signals a distinct pivot: the SUR staff are no longer content to simply be servers and bartenders. They’re using the platform – and the income – to aggressively pursue acting, music, DJing, and modeling. This isn’t a new phenomenon, but the overt ambition, and the show’s willingness to document it, reflects a growing trend where “survival jobs” are increasingly viewed as launchpads, not endpoints.
From Serving Tables to Building Brands: The Rise of the “Portfolio Career”
For decades, the narrative around entry-level service jobs centered on gaining experience or simply making ends meet. Now, thanks to the visibility afforded by platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and, yes, reality television, these roles are being strategically leveraged. The new cast of Vanderpump Rules embodies this “portfolio career” approach. Natalie Maguire, for example, is a lead bartender actively pursuing a pop music career. Marcus Johnson balances shifts at SUR with a burgeoning DJ career. This isn’t about lacking focus; it’s about diversifying income streams and building multiple skillsets in an increasingly uncertain job market.
This trend is particularly pronounced among Gen Z and Millennials, who came of age during economic instability. A 2023 study by Deloitte found that 61% of Gen Zs and 58% of Millennials have a side hustle, driven by financial necessity, a desire for creative fulfillment, and a rejection of traditional career paths. Deloitte’s Gen Z and Millennial Workplace Trends highlights the importance of flexibility and purpose in their career choices.
The “Vanderpump Rules” Incubator: How Reality TV Fuels Side Hustles
Vanderpump Rules provides a unique, albeit dramatic, incubator for these ambitions. The show’s built-in audience offers immediate exposure for cast members’ side projects. Angelica Jensen’s arrival, with her aspirations in modeling and acting, is explicitly framed as a pursuit alongside her work at SUR. Jason Cohen’s acting ambitions are a recurring storyline. This isn’t accidental; the show’s producers recognize the appeal of watching individuals actively build their brands.
This dynamic mirrors a broader trend in influencer marketing and the creator economy. Individuals are increasingly monetizing their personal brands, and reality TV provides a shortcut to building that brand awareness. The show’s success demonstrates the public’s appetite for authenticity – even when that authenticity is packaged with manufactured drama.
Sobriety, Mental Health, and the Pressure to “Level Up”
Season 12 also hints at a growing awareness of mental health and sobriety within the context of relentless ambition. Shayne Davis’s focus on sobriety while navigating a busy social and professional life is a notable storyline. This reflects a broader cultural shift towards prioritizing well-being, even amidst the pressure to constantly “level up.” However, the show also illustrates the challenges of balancing these competing priorities. The constant scrutiny and drama inherent in reality TV can exacerbate existing mental health struggles.
The Dark Side of the Hustle: Burnout and Exploitation
While the “portfolio career” offers flexibility and opportunity, it also carries risks. The pressure to constantly be “on,” to monetize every aspect of one’s life, can lead to burnout and exploitation. The SUR-vers’ relentless pursuit of multiple ventures raises questions about work-life balance and the sustainability of this lifestyle. The show’s depiction of long hours, financial instability, and interpersonal conflict serves as a cautionary tale.
What’s Next? The Future of Reality TV and the “Side Hustle” Generation
The evolution of Vanderpump Rules suggests that reality TV is becoming less about escapism and more about aspirational entrepreneurship. Expect to see more shows that explicitly showcase individuals building their brands and pursuing multiple income streams. The lines between entertainment and self-promotion will continue to blur. The success of this model will depend on maintaining a balance between authenticity and entertainment, and on addressing the potential downsides of the “always-on” culture.
Ultimately, the new season of Vanderpump Rules isn’t just about the drama at SUR; it’s a reflection of a fundamental shift in how we think about work, ambition, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. The show’s cast members are pioneers of a new era, where the side hustle isn’t just a means to an end, but a core component of a dynamic and evolving career path.
What are your thoughts on the rise of the “portfolio career”? Share your experiences and predictions in the comments below!
