The Physical and Mental Toll of Reality TV: What “Farmen kjendis” Reveals
The finale of “Farmen kjendis” (Celebrity Farm) has wrapped up, with Sondre Sundby emerging as the winner. But beyond the competition and celebrations, the show offers a glimpse into the significant physical and psychological impact of extended periods in a demanding, isolated environment. Contestants are revealing the lasting effects of their time on the farm, from weight loss and physical exhaustion to unexpected emotional strain.
The Body Remembers: Physical Transformations on the Farm
Several contestants have spoken about noticeable changes to their bodies during and after their time on “Farmen kjendis.” Heidi Røneid reported losing around four kilograms (nearly 9 pounds), representing over six percent of her body weight. She noted appearing “more hollow” in both face and body. To counteract this, Røneid intentionally increased her calorie intake, adding significant amounts of margarine to her meals – a testament to the limited food options and the body’s need for fuel during intense physical labor.
Sondre Sundby experienced a different kind of physical shift. He described losing muscle mass, feeling like he was left with “saltsticks” for legs after the show. Although he engaged in physical activity on the farm, it wasn’t enough to maintain his usual physique.
Peder Braastad, a previous contestant from “Jakten” (The Hunt), reported being in the best physical shape of his life during his time on “Farmen kjendis” and “Torpet” (The Cottage), losing ten kilograms. However, he acknowledged a return to less healthy habits after leaving the show.
Beyond the Physical: The Mental Game of Isolation
The physical challenges are only part of the story. Henriette Lien emphasized the mental toll of the experience, stating she was more tired than she realized. She described the farm as the only reality, with a “full cup” of mental exhaustion. The lack of regular hygiene and self-care also contributed to a feeling of being run-down.
The intensity of the experience can be jarring when returning to normal life. Lien recounted her 17-year-old daughter’s blunt assessment upon her return: “You look old,” and “You smell like a horse.”
The Aftermath: Re-entry and Recovery
The transition back to everyday life isn’t always smooth. Contestants often grapple with readjusting to modern comforts and routines. Sundby joked that his girlfriend would be receiving a “drog” (a mess) of a man home, referencing his depleted physical state. Braastad admitted to quickly reverting to less healthy habits after re-entering society.
Not all participants make it to the final celebrations. Fritz Aanes, a former wrestler and coach, was unable to attend the final party due to work commitments, but expressed a desire for all participants to move past any disagreements and celebrate the shared experience.
What Does This Signify for the Future of Reality TV?
The experiences of the “Farmen kjendis” contestants raise important questions about the responsibility of reality TV producers to support the well-being of their participants. Here are some potential future trends:
Increased Psychological Support
Expect to see more comprehensive psychological evaluations and support systems for contestants, both during and after filming. This could include access to therapists, counselors, and mental health resources.
Nutritional Guidance and Monitoring
Producers may implement stricter nutritional guidelines and monitoring to ensure contestants maintain adequate health and energy levels. This could involve registered dietitians and regular health check-ups.
Post-Show Reintegration Programs
Programs designed to help contestants readjust to normal life, manage public attention, and cope with potential emotional challenges are likely to become more common.
Transparency and Disclosure
Greater transparency about the potential physical and psychological risks of participating in reality TV could become standard practice, ensuring contestants are fully informed before signing on.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is “Farmen kjendis”? It’s a Norwegian reality TV show where celebrities compete in challenges related to farm life.
- Who won “Farmen kjendis” 2026? Sondre Sundby won the 2026 season.
- Did contestants experience weight loss? Yes, several contestants reported significant weight loss during their time on the show.
- Was there a mental toll on the contestants? Yes, contestants reported feeling mentally exhausted and struggling with the transition back to normal life.
Pro Tip: If you’re considering participating in a reality TV show, prioritize your mental and physical health. Research the show’s support systems and be prepared for a challenging experience.
What are your thoughts on the impact of reality TV on participants? Share your opinions in the comments below!
