Caitlyn Jenner, formerly Bruce, is in the news and tabloids on a daily basis, so the reality-show producers of "I am Cait" face a tough task in trying to humanize rather than sensationalize America's most famous transgender activist.
Jeff Jenkins, executive producer of the Bunim/Murray production that is in its second season, says the show is a very different animal than their other franchise shows focused on Jenner's famous family, the Kardashians.
Jenkins explains, "On 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians,' we accentuate conflict, sex, drama. In 'I am Cait,' we are flies on the walls not searching for an agenda. Another key difference is the use of editing and music. On the Kardashians music is used to heighten to the 10th power whatever emotions those characters are experiencing. On Cait, there is almost no music or it's low key. The editing is soft. We are not trying to force reactions."
Jenkins says those choices stem from Jenner's sense of responsibility for representing the trans community. Jenkins says, "I think she takes that responsibility more seriously than anything she has done in her whole life."
How has "I am Cait"been received by audiences, especially at a time when transgender politics are hot-buttons across the country? What critiques and praise do you have for the show? How has Jenner fared as a representative of the trans community?
Guest:
Jeff Jenkins, Executive Vice President of Development & Programming for Bunim/Murray Productions; Jenkins oversees E!’s “I am Cait” and the entire franchise of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians”