For almost a decade now, fans have been treated to Ridiculousness, MTV’s and Rob Dydrek’s idea of a video clip show. Since it debuted in 2011, its resonated with its viewers on a visceral level. It’s not just about the format or the panelists, it’s the feeling you get when you turn on the tv screen. The show exudes a sense of familiarity that feels as if you are hanging out with your friends and telling jokes. Good times. This feeling isn’t relegated to just Americans, many others around the world feel the same way. This is why Ridiculousness has consistently been one of the best shows in its demographic almost from the moment it aired.
What is Ridiculousness?
It’s a popular comedy clip show hosted by Rob Dyrdek and his friends, Chanel West Coast and Sterling ‘Steelo” Brim. There’s usually a new guest star from pop culture fame featured on the panel every episode as well. During each show, Dyrdek and his panel watch viral internet videos, usually failed stunts, and add their commentary. The format is similar to America’s Funniest Home Videos, except that executives at Ridiculousness don’t accept viewer submissions. The people in the videos don’t win any prize money either. From the time it aired to now, this popular show has undergone some changes. But, it’s never lost its heart. This is why it keeps on resonating with its audience. Still, in case you missed it, here are some of the ways Ridiculousness has evolved since Season 1:
It spawned another show called Amazingness
Amazingness, which debuted in December, is hosted by Drydek and features a panel of judges who watch a diverse mix of talent show off their stuff. The first act atomically gets the Top Spot but can be dethroned by subsequent performers. Dyrdek and his panel of judges rate each performance and decide who stays on top and who gets eliminated. The last performer standing at the end of the show gets a $10K cash prize.
The number of episodes has increased substantially
During the first season, MTV gave Dyrdek the go-ahead to film 16 episodes. But, after its debut, fans couldn’t get enough. In fact, Ridiculousness was MTV’s second highest-rated show among its target demographic in its first season. It was also ranked #2 in all of television for its Monday time slot. Eager to keep their public happy, MTV renewed the show for 20 episodes. They also updated the set, revamped the format and added the now popular high-speed recap to its features. Since then, except for Season 5 which had 18 episodes, Ridiculousness has had at least 20 shows a season. The most was an impressive 41 episodes, as seen during Season 11. The current season, #12, has already aired 36 episodes. It’s entirely possible, the number may surpass 40. But, there’s only one way to find out.
Ridiculousness has gone international
Ridiculousness was not just a hit in America, it became beloved in virtually every country it aired. This eventually led to the launch of several localized versions in other countries including France, Spain, Brazil, Italy, and Denmark. These versions follow the same format as the original but they are hosted by the local celebrities from their respective regions. These shows are broadcast on MTV alongside the original version. In some cases, they are found on selected channels.
It’s all about location
When Season 7 of Ridiculousness premiered, virtually everything was the same. The panel was the same, the set was the same, etc. However, this was their first time filming in New York. Previously, all shows were filmed in Hollywood Center Studios in Los Angeles.
Bigger stars and new video categories
Although the show has maintained its hit status from the moment it aired, MTV execs still wanted to switch things up and give their fans a little something extra. It is their way of keeping things fresh. To do so, they began inviting bigger stars, like Justin Bieber and Wiz Khalifa, to the show from Season 2 onwards. They also added new over-the-top and (of course) hilarious video categories like Lord of the Lapp, Selfies, Man Squirrels, and Mannequins) into the mix.
They started airing two brand new episodes every Friday night
Fast forward to season 9 and nothing much has changed. Ridiculousness is still dominating ratings. To capitalize on this popularity, MTV announces a two-hour Ridiculousness Fridays block. Every Friday night, MTV airs two new episodes of Ridiculousness. In addition, Dyrdek and his friends rehash the nights’ best moments live in the studio, host giveaways, and more.
The Bottom Line
Since it premiered in 2011, Ridiculousness has captured the hearts and eyes of young fans all over the world. In fact, its refreshing take on video clip shows resonated with its viewers so much, it inspired a spin-off. Now going into its 12th season, things are getting even crazier and its popularity is expected to grow even more. Doesn’t sound so ridiculous anymore, does it?
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