The Conversation

What's it like to compete for life-changing amounts of money on national television while cut off from the outside world? Ella Al-Shamahi meets two women who’ve taken part in TV show competitions to find out what happens on and off the camera.

Alex Duggan was the winner of the first season on The Traitors Australia - a show all about lying and deception. She ended up in one of the most dramatic finals ever seen on the show. After winning Alex experienced trolling on social media due to her sexuality and betrayal of her fellow castmates during the competition.

Lída Puldová from the Czech Republic signed up for the TV show Survivor assuming it would be a chance for her to explore her adventurous side. She was the oldest contestant on the series. The reality of the show starkly contrasted with Lída's expectations, leading her to regret her decision to participate.

Produced by Emily Naylor for the BBC World Service.