HISTORY
There have been many programs to rise and fall of late and to understand why we see what you do today in reality television, we must first know where this type of programing began.
1950s - Candid Camera
Candid Camera was a hidden camera show, the first of its kind, that first aired in 1948. Produced by Allen Funt, This long-time American classic is one of the first examples of "Reality TV" as we know it today.
1970s - An American Family
Created by Craig Gilbert, This show first aired in 1973. It follows the Loud Family in Santa Barbara, California. The show was immensely popular. 10s of millions tuned in to watch the highs and lows of this upper middle-class family.
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1980s - Real People
Real People was a reality show that ran from 1979-1984. A panel of celebrity hosts would watch a pre-recorded segment on a real person who has a unique hobby or occupation.
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The show was very influential. the success of Real People was the catalyst of many spinoffs like That's Incredible! or That's My Line.
1990s - Trial of OJ Simpson
the trial of OJ Simpson is when reality tv hits a little too real. the trio was treated like a reality show because of OJ Simpson's fame as a football star, The race relations between Black people and police, and the grizzly details of the murder. People could not stop watching. Also, Robert Kardashian, the father of Kim Kardashian, was OJ’s attorney.
History
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2000s - Reality Boom
With shows like Big Brother and Survivor leading the way, Reality TV becomes more popular than ever. Reality TV becomes global, with over 50 countries and millions of people tuning in each week.
Because of immense popularity, traditional cable channels like A&E, Bravo, E!, TLC, and History were changing their programming to include more reality shows.
2010s - Singing Shows and Rednecks
Singing shows like The Voice reign supreme in this era of Reality TV. The only huge exception is Duck Dynasty, going against the grain was a smart choice for A&E. At the show's peak, Duck Dynasty was watched by 10s of millions in the United States. Duck Dynasty targeted a more rural audience and it worked.
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Present Day
Reality TV has had a renaissance with streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max. Typically more with a lower budget, these quick shows are easy money-making machines. Shows like The Circle, Too Hot To Handle, and The Hype. As well as older shows have been getting more attention as streaming allows instant replayability.