Actress Julie Walters deplores TV talent shows

SCREEN star Julie Walters has hit out at the makers of television talent shows, accusing them of exploiting contestants.

The actress, who won a Golden Globe and a Bafta award for her part in 1983’s Educating Rita, also complained that television schedules contained too many reality shows.

Asked what makes her angry, Walters, 62, who is known to a younger generation of filmgoers for her role in Harry Potter films, said: “That there’s not enough drama being made. We’ve got too many reality shows, but that’s probably just a fashion so I’m waiting for things to swing back.

“I also get very angry that vulnerable people appear in the audition stages of TV talent shows. I think it’s sad that people’s
real vulnerabilities are being exploited. They simply shouldn’t be there.”

Walters is not the first star to attack TV talent shows.
Earlier this year, Paul Weller criticised so-called “edgy” aspiring singers who chase success by auditioning on the shows.

The former Jam frontman called talent shows “Saturday-night viewing for the masses”, adding: “Would I be a judge? Would I hell.”

Sir Elton John has also said that he is “not a fan”, adding: “I probably wouldn’t have lasted if I’d gone on one. I was asked to judge American Idol.”