ABSTRACT
In this paper we wish to present a model of a system of relations which links an interpreter’s performance on television to two basic ideological forces: the ruling sets of beliefs broadcast by the dominant power group in our society (consumer capitalism) and the need to satisfy the desire of the television viewer, the couch potato (popular culture). These forces, as we shall see, act through a logical series of opportunities and constraints and are beginning to transform the traditional interpreter into one whose face is acceptable on television.
