Fictional reality or real fiction: how can one decide?

Purpose This paper aims to examine information and communication science, knowledge and power in relation to a TV “docu‐fiction”. In particular, it will look at the decision‐making processes of individuals and groups. Design/methodology/approach Core information behaviour such as selection and evaluation are examined. Findings Some concepts from the fields of information or communication studies are critically examined, e.g. “gatekeeper” or “classification” and re‐analysed in a TV and multi‐channel broadcasting environment. Practical implications Positive conclusions show the possible impact of expanding information culture, competence and selection skills, whereby attention is paid to the ethical consequences of information mise en scène. Originality/value The obvious, popular and close example of the RTBF “docu‐fiction” can be a model to re‐think and reflect many information programmes and narratives.