Filmmaker James Gunn, known for directing Guardians of the Galaxy and Superman, revealed his strong interest in reality television, particularly shows like Love Island. He shared these details during a recent conversation, demonstrating how reality TV has become an important part of his daily routine.
James Gunn Discusses His Reality TV Viewing Habits
James Gunn, while discussing his creative process and childhood on The Viall Files podcast with Nick Viall, also expressed his passion for reality TV. After a long day of work, Gunn described his evening routine, which includes watching television shows with his wife, Jen. Once she goes to sleep, he continues to watch reality shows alone, such as Love Island.
“What we do is, I work all day, then Jen and I eat, then we go downstairs and we watch a TV show or two,”
James shared.
“Then she goes to sleep. I smoke a cigar, and I continue watching reality TV. So I watch a bunch of shows she doesn’t watch, like Love Island.”
The director emphasized his dedication to Love Island, stating he watches every season. Although he did not follow the UK version closely, Gunn completed the entire US version and praised its quality, especially Season 6. He acknowledged being aware of major moments, including Huda Mustafa’s memorable “Mamacita” incident.
Big Brother and Other Reality Shows Among His Favorites
Love Island is not the sole reality program James Gunn enjoys. He and his wife are currently fans of Big Brother, sharing their frustrations about certain contestants like Rachel. Gunn has even connected online with Taylor Hale, a former Big Brother winner, finding a similarity between her experience and that of Nick Viall from The Bachelor.
“She reminds me of you in your season,”
Gunn remarked.
“Because you were unjustly picked on in the first season of The Bachelor, I felt. And she was the same in her season of Big Brother.”
This comparison highlights Gunn’s attentiveness to the interpersonal dynamics typical of reality TV. In addition to Love Island and Big Brother, Gunn listed Traitors and Survivor as some of his favorite shows, with Survivor holding a special place as his all-time favorite.
The Role of Reality Television in James Gunn’s Life
James Gunn’s enthusiasm for reality TV reflects a broader cultural trend where such programs serve as entertainment and a shared social experience. Watching with his wife or alone, Gunn sees these shows as a relaxing way to unwind while staying connected to current pop culture conversations.
With Love Island USA available on Peacock, fans can easily explore the show that Gunn praises. His public acknowledgment of being a reality TV fan may encourage fellow viewers to engage more with these programs and perhaps suggest new shows to him.
