Ep 1. Trash TV: Dirty and Deadly Talk

In the early 1990s, daytime talk shows began to rise in popularity, with shows like Geraldo, Sally Jesse Raphael, and Jerry Springer leading the pack. But with the rise in popularity came a rise in controversy, as these shows began to air more and more extreme content to keep audiences hooked. The first episode of Dark Side of the '90s delves into the world of "Trash TV" and the dark side of these popular talk shows.

The episode opens with a montage of clips from various talk shows, showcasing some of the most outrageous and controversial moments. From fist fights to bizarre guests to shocking revelations, these shows quickly gained a reputation for pushing the envelope and exploiting their guests for the sake of entertainment.

The episode then takes a closer look at some of the most infamous moments from these shows, including the "Skinhead Brawl" on The Jerry Springer Show and the "Devil Worshipper" episode of Geraldo. Interviews with former guests and staff members shed light on the behind-the-scenes workings of these shows, revealing just how far producers would go to create drama and boost ratings.

But it's not just the talk show hosts and producers who come under scrutiny in this episode. The impact that these shows had on their audience is also explored, with experts weighing in on the psychological effects of watching this kind of programming. Some argue that shows like these normalized violence and negativity, while others point to the fact that many viewers saw themselves reflected in the guests and found a sense of community in these shows.

The episode also touches on the moral panic that arose around these shows, with many lawmakers and activists calling for them to be taken off the air. The infamous story of Jenny Jones and the murder of one of her guests is explored, as well as the subsequent legal battles that ensued.

Throughout the episode, there is a sense of both fascination and unease as we are reminded of just how wild and boundary-pushing these shows were in their prime. But while the shock value of these shows may have died down in recent years, the legacy of "Trash TV" lives on in the way we consume media and the way we talk about controversial topics.

Overall, the first episode of Dark Side of the '90s is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the world of daytime talk shows and the impact they had on both their guests and their audiences. Whether you remember watching these shows firsthand or are just curious about a time before reality TV took over, this episode is sure to keep you hooked from start to finish.