It’s impossible to deny the dominance of reality TV. From the endless binge-worthy shows on streaming platforms to long-running network staples, the genre is more influential than ever. But if you take a closer look, you’ll see one group consistently leading the charge. Black women. From Tiffany “New York” Pollard to Nene Leakes, Black women have been at the forefront of reality TV since its inception, shaping narratives and breaking barriers. For Kamie Crawford, a TV personality and former co-host of MTV’s “Catfish,” the connection between Black women and reality TV is not just something to observe, it’s personal.

In a recent conversation with 21Ninety, Crawford opened up about how her passion for reality television is deeply rooted in the representation of Black women, and how her own career in the genre reflects the importance of authenticity and inclusivity.

Crawford is quick to give credit where it’s due, acknowledging how Black women have historically shaped the reality TV genre.

“I love “Love Is Blind,” but let’s be real — Black women have been at the forefront of reality TV since its inception,” Crawford said. “Tiffany Pollard, Nene Leakes, Jocelyn Hernandez… these women are legends. They created the blueprint for what we now expect from reality TV.”

For Kamie, these iconic Black women have done more than entertain. They’ve paved the way for others, showing that there’s space for Black women to tell their stories, even in an industry that often sidelines them.

“Tiffany Pollard, especially — she’s the HBIC, no one does it like her,” Crawford added. “When I think of how much she influenced the genre, it just makes me want to keep pushing for more representation.”

Breaking Barriers on “Catfish”

Kamie Crawford didn’t just stumble into reality TV, she’s a trailblazer in her own right. After joining “Catfish” as a co-host in 2020, Crawford became the first Black woman to hold a permanent hosting role on the hit show. Her presence was a significant shift, one that Crawford feels was long overdue.

“I’ve always been a huge proponent of there needing to be a Black woman in every room, in every space,” she said. “We create safe spaces for everybody. We keep it real, and that’s what ‘Catfish’ needed — a Black woman’s perspective.”

Crawford recognizes the show’s iconic status but believes her addition brought something fresh and necessary.

“’Catfish’ is a massive show, but it needed a woman’s touch, specifically a Black woman’s touch,” she explained. “I was proud to be that person, to bring a sense of relatability, honesty, and compassion to those stories. It’s about representation, and I’m glad I could be a part of it.”

Authenticity at the Core

One thing Kamie Crawford refuses to compromise on is her authenticity. Fans love her for it, and it’s the foundation of her growing career. But it wasn’t always easy for Kamie to find her voice.

“I was bullied relentlessly in elementary and middle school,” she revealed. “That experience helped me develop comebacks and find confidence in who I am. By high school, I made a decision to just be me, and if people didn’t like it, that was their problem.”

Her authenticity is what has allowed her to thrive in a genre where being genuine is key.

“People assume when they see me on TV that I’m playing a character,” she said. “This is not a character. I’ve built my entire career off of being myself. I’m a Scorpio, a Virgo rising, and I’m going to tell you what I think. That’s just who I am.”

While authenticity has brought her far, it also requires balance. Crawford stresses the importance of self-care in maintaining her mental and physical health, especially in the fast-paced world of television.

Proactive Wellness

As she prepares to celebrate her 32nd birthday, Crawford is more in tune with her body and well-being than ever before.

“I’m realizing how much my routine and wellness play into everything I do,” she says. “If I’ve had a crazy week or been traveling, I know I need to get back to my routine. Working out, eating well, and staying healthy are so important.”

Part of staying healthy for Kamie involves being proactive about her wellness, especially during cold and flu season. That’s why she’s partnered with Mucinex to remind fans that self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks. She says it’s also about making sure you’re physically ready to take on whatever comes your way.

“I’ve teamed up with Mucinex for their No-Regrets campaign, and I’m so excited about it because Mucinex has been part of my travel kit for years,” she shared. “When you’re sick, you can’t show up as your best self. That’s why Mucinex Nightshift is a lifesaver. It gives you multi-symptom cold and flu relief so you can sleep well and wake up ready to go.”

For Crawford, the partnership aligns perfectly with her ethos of prioritizing wellness — not as an afterthought, but as a key part of thriving in life and work.

“You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she said. “You’ve got to take care of yourself if you want to achieve anything.”