Reality television has become a staple of British entertainment, with shows like Geordie Shore, Gogglebox, and Come Dine With Me capturing the attention of the masses. While these programs offer moments of amusement, they also harbor a darker side, one that a new Channel 4 documentary, “Miriam: Death Of A Reality Star,” delves into.

The documentary explores the extraordinary life of Miriam Rivera, a transgender woman who gained prominence through her appearance on the Sky1 series “There’s Something About Miriam” in 2004. The premise of the show involved six male contestants vying for Miriam’s affection, unaware that she was transgender.

The final episode of the series, in which Miriam revealed her gender identity to the contestants, has been widely condemned as one of the most unethical moments in reality television history. Viewers witnessed a heartbreaking scene as Miriam courageously disclosed her truth to the men, only to be met with laughter and ridicule.

In the documentary, crew members reveal the discomfort and volatile reactions behind the scenes. Contestant Tom Rooke expressed feeling deceived and used male pronouns when referring to Miriam, sparking further controversy.

Viewers of the documentary have been appalled by Miriam’s treatment and the lack of consideration for her well-being, both during and after the show. Revelations from the show’s psychiatrist highlight the disregard for Miriam’s mental health and vulnerability.

Miriam’s tragic story extends beyond the confines of reality television. She faced discrimination and rejection throughout her life, including from her own family. After the show, legal battles ensued, and Miriam ultimately withdrew from the public eye.

In a startling admission, production executive Jo Josun revealed a lack of remorse, stating, “I didn’t feel anything… I’m in the business of making television shows.” Her remarks underscore the ethical questions raised by the exploitation of individuals for entertainment.

“Miriam: Death Of A Reality Star” offers a sobering reflection on the consequences of sensationalized television and the human cost behind the screen. The documentary continues to shed light on Miriam’s story, airing on Channel 4 and available for streaming on All4.

Sadly, in 2019, she was found dead in her mother’s apartment in an apparent suicide at just 38-years-old.