Reality Shows That Marked a Significant Impact on Television, Regrettably Axed
TLC, a channel known for its diverse programming, has also been home to several reality shows that have stirred controversy over the years. Here's a look at some of the most contentious shows that have graced the network.
The Start of Modern Reality TV: "The Real World" (1992)
TLC's journey into reality TV began with the launch of "The Real World" in May 1992, marking the start of the modern-day reality TV show movement. The show, now in its 33rd season, has also spawned two spin-offs, "Road Rules" and the current "The Challenge."
A Dance Journey: "Dance Moms" (2011-2019)
From 2011 to 2019, "Dance Moms" entertained viewers with the life of Abby Lee Miller, owner of a dance studio, and her students as they trained and traveled to various dance competitions.
The Duggar Family Saga: "17 Kids and Counting" and "19 Kids and Counting" (2008-2021)
"17 Kids and Counting," which aired from 2008 to 2015, and its subsequent name change to "19 Kids and Counting" as more children were born to the Duggar family, followed Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar and their large family growing up in Tontitown, Arkansas. However, in 2015, Josh Duggar, the eldest child, publicly apologized for inexcusable actions involving the fondling of five girls, including some of his sisters. This incident led to the demise of "Counting On" in 2021, when Josh was arrested on federal charges of receiving and possessing child pornography. He is currently serving a 151-month prison term.
The Sweet 16 Celebrations: "My Super Sweet 16" (2005-2017)
"My Super Sweet 16," which aired from 2005 to 2017, showcased the planning, plotting, and prepping for over-the-top sweet 16s, quinceañeras, and other wild teenage birthday celebrations.
The Dark Side of Pageants: "Toddlers and Tiaras" (2009-2016)
"Toddlers and Tiaras," which aired from January 2009 to November 2016, showcased the dark underbelly of youth pageant life. The show sparked considerable controversy for its portrayal of child beauty pageants, with heavy criticism around the commodification and sexualization of young girls. Despite backlash, it ran for six seasons before being canceled due to public pressure.
A Spinoff: "Here Comes Honey Boo Boo" (2012-2014)
"Here Comes Honey Boo Boo," a spinoff of "Toddlers and Tiaras," aired from August 2012 to August 2014.
The Romani Culture Portrayal: "My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding" (2012-2018)
"My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding," which aired from 2012 to 2018, highlighted the baptisms, birthdays, and wild weddings of Romani Americans. The show was a spin-off of "Britain's Big Fat Gypsy Weddings" reality series.
The Italian American Portrayal: "Jersey Shore" (2009-2012)
"Jersey Shore," which aired from 2009 to 2012 on MTV, featured eight 20-somethings living together in a vacation home in Seaside Heights, New Jersey. The show was controversial for its portrayal of Italian Americans and participants' liberal use of the terms "guido" and "guidette." Some Italian groups called on MTV to pull the show.
The Fashion Makeover: "What Not to Wear" (2003-2013)
"What Not to Wear," which premiered on TLC in January 2003, taught participants how to dress to impress by emphasizing their assets and deemphasizing their defects.
The Unconventional Lifestyles: "My Strange Addiction" (2010-present)
"My Strange Addiction," which premiered on TLC in December 2010, showcased people with bizarre personal fixations or daily rituals. The show caused shock and controversy given its unusual subject matter, with some episodes depicting addictions to unsafe or gross substances, leading to widespread attention and debate about authenticity and ethics.
The Polyamorous Family: "Polyfamily" (2016)
"Polyfamily," which aired in 2016, followed a polyamorous family. The show received controversy due to its unusual family dynamic and exploration of nontraditional relationships. It was quietly ended after one season, with the main cast publicly stating they would not continue, marking it as a divisive show on TLC.
The 90-Day Fiancé Controversies (2014-present)
"90 Day Fiancé," which debuted in 2014, has been home to many controversial couples since its debut. The controversies include mismatched relationships, large age gaps, toxic dynamics, abusive behavior, cheating, and deceit. Specific couples have been criticized for physical violence and abusive behavior, making the show a frequent topic of discussion for its polarizing content.
These shows represent different types of controversy, ranging from ethical concerns about child participants to adult relationship dramas and unconventional lifestyles, making them some of the most debated offerings on TLC.
[1] Toddlers & Tiaras Canceled After Six Seasons
[2] The Real World Turns 30: A Look Back at the Show's History and Impact
[3] Polyfamily Canceled After One Season
[4] My Strange Addiction: Controversial TV Show or Ethical Dilemma?
[5] 90 Day Fiancé: A Look at the Most Controversial Couples
The show "Toddlers & Tiaras" was canceled after six seasons due to public pressure, sparking controversy for its portrayal of child beauty pageants and the commodification and sexualization of young girls.
The reality series "My Strange Addiction" was a controversial show on TLC, depicting people with bizarre personal fixations or daily rituals and causing shock and controversy given its unusual subject matter.
