MTV Ditches Rich-Kid Shows for Do-Good Obama Era

MTV is hoping to boost its sagging ratings by revamping itself in the image of the do-good Obama Era, reports the New York Times. In a new reality show, The Buried Life, four buddies road trip across the US, checking off the 100 things they hope to do before they die—with a good Samaritan twist: Deserving locals get help with their own wishes too.

The deepening financial crisis has forced MTV to rethink its offerings, which reflect the decadence of a bygone era. Other forthcoming shows include TI’s Road to Redemption, in which the rapper helps troubled youth, and a show about a performing arts school headlined by Nick Lachey. In the past, "humor was more cynical, the idea of community seemed earnest and not cool,” noted one exec. “It’s the opposite now.”