A star of a popular long-running reality TV was fired from her real estate job according to recent news reports over allegations that she used a racial slur during filming of the show. While an investigation into the incident reportedly was inconclusive, the controversy made headlines and drew unwanted attention to the employee and her employer. As a result, the situation may serve as a reminder for employers of the risks of an employee appearing on a reality show.

Quick Hits

• Employees appearing on reality competition shows may create headaches for employers.
• If confronted with an employee's request to appear on a reality show, employers may want to consider the type of show, the time commitment, and the risk of negative attention.

There is an increasing number of reality television shows on cable and streaming providers, making it more and more likely that employers will be confronted with the "reality" of employees seeking to be cast or asked to appear on a show and whether employers should permit such an appearance.

Generally, private employers are not required to permit employees to take time off for the purpose of filming a reality show and have wide discretion to discharge employees for their conduct on the show. At the same, employers may take pride in having an employee featured on a popular show (so long as that employee's show-conduct does not serve to impugn or embarrass the employer).

With the recent controversy and new seasons of some of the country's...

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