Enter sports reality TV shows, potential game-changers

Reality TV programs that feature sports are expected to figure prominently in the rapidly growing variety show market in China next year.

"Significant international sports events are scheduled for next year, which would help ignite nationalistic sentiments and stoke passion for sports among the general public," said Peng Kan, research and development director of Legend Media, a Beijing-based consultancy.

He was referring to events like the 2016 UEFA European soccer championship, which will be held in France in June and July next year, and the 2016 Olympic Games, which will start in August in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.