When it comes to the main series of the Challenge, there are very few Real Worlders left in the mix. Kailah is one person who still gets calls, but it seems like she might not be returning any time soon.
Recently, she responded to Instagram questions and explained her concerns with the Challenge’s pay structure.
Firstly, she said that she can make more money at home, not doing the show, than she’d get paid by MTV doing a Challenge. Based on her other answers, it’s safe to assume this is only referring to her appearance fee — not the prize money she’d earn by winning. According to her Instagram, she’s an interior designer and makes the bulk of supplements her income on OnlyFans.
But, she’s also upset by the current pay structure. Competitors are paid based on their seniority, Kailah (and other people who debuted on a US MTV show) are only assessed on the number of previous main series shows they’ve done. This doesn’t consider The Real World, All Stars, Champs vs. Stars, Lohan Beach House, or How Far is Tattoo Far.
Meanwhile, all international competitors have their non-Challenge shows count toward their seniority. For example, her husband Sam would have three prior shows on his resume: Love Island UK, Ex on the Beach: Peak of Love, and Ride or Dies.
For most Challengers, the pay is based on a tiered system, So, if Sam does one more show, he would have the same level of seniority (and therefore pay) as Kailah.
Kailah claims other cast members are frustrated by this, but they won’t publicly complain because they want to be cast again. There is definite truth to this. Susie almost did Free Agents, but production didn’t factor Road Rules: Viewers Revenge or Spring Break Challenge into her seniority. While these shows definitely aren’t traditional Challenges, they are time commitments that cast members have given Bunim-Murray Productions to support the franchise.
However, not every cast member follows the same pay structure. Rookies are (understandably) paid less. And Kailah’s response gives some context as to why many cast members disappear after just one season (they’re not worth the veteran pay). Super veterans (think Bananas, Nany, or CT) will also get a flat appearance free just for showing up, and it’s a pretty sizable amount — more than many people make in a year.
So, do I think Kailah will ever be back? I probably do, especially if Sam comes along too. She’s probably making money at home right now, but any influencer gigs will benefit from the exposure. Plus, it’s not like she’s in bad shape. Winning a season isn’t out of the question. But, she’s also given a lot to the show, so it would be nice to see her seniority honored.
Stop Being Polite 