In some cases, viewers facing similar challenges might have been encouraged. In other cases, viewers might have been moved to extend a helping hand. Some of the greatest and most beneficial films and TV programs ever produced were based on the lives of real people and historical events. For example, most Americans enjoy watching athletic events. Most game shows entertain without providing much real education, if any.
Many viewers are curious.
Others want something to talk about the next day at work or on the phone. It also requires less creativity and talent. That means more meanness, more skin, more vulgarity, and more risk of serious reputational, emotional and physical harm.