elebrity Ustadz In The Market (The Practice of Commodification of Religion in “Islam Itu Indah Show”)

Abstract

Religious programs that are broadcast on several televisions cannot be separated from the interests of ratings and profits. In fact, religious programs with the lecture method presented on television are not new. This can be seen from the appearance of the preachers who gained popularity after preach at a certain television station. The preachers who graduated from television is usually called the celebrity preachers. One of the religious programs that is the focus of this research is Islam Itu Indah. One of the Islamic tausiyah programs hosted by Ustaz Maulana. Through this program, Trans TV earns big profits through the commodification of religious symbols that are always displayed. Ustaz Maulana tends to be constantly emphasized with trendy and parlente looks. In this industry, Trans TV also contributes in creating a new representation of Islam. This media is more directed towards a lifestyle filled with religious symbols with capitalistic nuances. This study discusses the commodification process of Trans TV religion and celebrity preachers based on political economy of the media developed by Vincent Mosco, Graham Murdock, and Peter Golding. The topics discussed are commodification, spatialization, and structuration.

Key Words : political economy; religious commodification; celebrity preachers