China. Viewers' SMS decide how scripts end

According to Shangai Daily, the more Chinese TV viewers are attracted by tough, realistic US TV drama series like "Prison Break" and "24," the more dissatisfied they are with the domestic offerings - criticized as empty, boring and lacking creativity.

"My Prince," a local TV romance drama is designed to change that and viewers practically write the script, decide the fate of characters and may become stars themselves. It's a first on the Chinese mainland.

For the first time, audiences can help decide how the story by sending short messages. Each episode has several open endings. Based on the short message votes, the director will choose the one with the most votes."

Similar endeavours elsewhere

-- "Accidental Lovers" allows TV viewers to choose outcome of new show BT new show, 'Accidental Lovers', on Finnish TV, will allow users to send text messages, causing the show's characters to either fall in love or break up.

-- «InYrShoes» (2003) - A soap opera in the UK called «InYrShoes» will not be decided by scriptwriters but by viewers using text messages...

-- (2005) - Fans can 'text' outcome of TV storyline - Viewers can vote via text messaging on their Cingular cell phones whether or not a character should kiss his sister-in-law...

emily | 9:30 AM | SMS and Television |
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