We live in a time when anyone can host a reality game show.No, really, just look at the random array of individuals taking on hosting duties. Sure, there are tried-and-true legends who have been a part of their respective shows for decades and are experts in their fields. You haveRuPaulonRuPaul’s Drag RaceandHeidi Klum,who is back onProject Runway. Now, when snagging new hosts, we have seen some big-name actors take a stab at the role, includingSimu LiuforGot to Get Out,Peter SerafinowiczonMillion Dollar Secret, andJoe ManganielloonDeal or No Deal Island. Then there are athletes likeTravis KelceofAre You Smarter Than a Celebrity?, andJesse Palmer, a former contestant, hostingThe Bachelor. They’re doing great things, so Netflix took inspiration.
When Netflix needed an in-person host for their new hit seriesBattle Camp, they went with the latter option, finding an athlete needing a gig. And it worked out perfectly. Former NFL star turned podcasterTaylor Lewanserves asBattle Camp’s lead counselor to the reality stars. He has become the heart of the show. Aside from having a jovial yet assertive tone,Taylor Lewan serves as a great asset to the series.I don’t thinkBattle Campwould be what it is without him.
Taylor Lewan Brings Personality to ‘Battle Camp’
During the heyday of reality television, earning a hosting gig either meant you were the expert in the field the show is based around, or you had experience as a media personality, usually through news or game shows. Now, the host of a reality game show has to infuse some personality, so big personalities have been getting the call. Taylor Lewan was tapped to hostBattle Campthanks to his time co-hosting the hot Barstool Sports podcastBussin’ With The Boys.He’s known for being rowdy and being one of the boys.He’s even been known to kiss a catfish, a tradition for the Nashville Predators. And that spirit is what he gives atBattle Camp.
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Prior to the full season drop, theBattle Camphost shared the synergy of how he earned his gig.He wrote on X, “After a couple of meetings and 14 days later, I was on a plane to filmBattle Camp(working title at the time). It was 30+ days of late nights and early mornings, trying to figure out how to swim in this brand-new ocean. The cast was amazing to be around, but the production team was something I’d never seen before. A staff of over 400 people all working together to create the best product possible, while trusting a football player with fake teeth to facilitate and drive this new show.” It’s that humble personality and wit that he brought to camp.
The former Tennessee Titans tackle may be tatted up, sporting a stache many might be jealous of, but atBattle Camp, he keeps things reserved. Perhaps the colder temperatures are to blame. Nevertheless, his wardrobe gives off camp counselor vibes. It’s fitting. Just like why he is a great host. As someone who has experienced the highs and lows of professional competition, he has a sympathetic approach as he watches the Wheel tear down some of the hopes and dreams of the Netflix Reality Universe contestants.His passion for the game goes beyond the paycheck. And the contestants truly seem to like him.With such comparisons toThe Challenge, Taylor Lewan is outshiningTJ Lavinin the hosting department. His ability to speak to the contestant in person and through narration is cleaner and clearer. And his command over the proceedings keeps the show moving. With such a unique game format,Taylor Lewan is an excellent executor of informationfor both the players and the viewers at home.
Why In-Person Hosts Are Key
What’s fascinating about reality television is the evolution of the show host. When it comes to American reality shows, in-person hosts are almost a necessity. Could you imagineBig Brotherwithout seeingJulie Chen MoonvesorSurvivorwithoutJeff Probst? When it comes to certain reality shows with British origins, some tend to utilize a narration host. Especially those coming out of Netflix. Just look atThe CircleandToo Hot to Handle. For the American iteration ofThe Circle, it’sMichelle Buteau, andToo Hot to HandlehasDesiree Burch,with an assist from “Lana.“Both shows work in narration form, as both brilliant comedians' hilarious quips and witty jokes keep the show alive. That wouldn’t have worked forBattle Camp. It would simply have been impossible.
Because it needs that physical presence to move the game along,Battle Campemployed the right in-person host. It’s key to the game. While other Netflix shows are hosted via voice over,having Taylor Lewan on the ground truly amplifies and heightensBattle Camp.And who doesn’t love watching him play with a megaphone! The cast truly respects him, even if he might seem to have rookie jitters at times. WithBattle Camplikely extending for years to come, Taylor Lewan will continue to grow into his role and perhaps even earn himself an Emmy nomination one day. Taylor Lewan is the pulse that keepsBattle Campbeating.
Battle Campis available to stream on Netflix.
Battle Camp
