Entertainment & Arts
Television NBC executives defend the less-expensive ‘Fear Factor’ and ‘Spy TV,’ criticized as lowbrow but which help pay the bills.
July 20, 2001
Television
Executives say popular ‘Fear Factor’ and ‘Spy TV’ haven’t sullied network’s quality reputation.
July 16, 2001
Two high-profile, unscripted series pass in the night this week, as NBC’s summer hit “Fear Factor” returns as a regular weekly program tonight, and the third edition of CBS’ “Survivor” concludes Thursday.
Jan. 7, 2002
The major networks are suffering from a precipitous summertime swoon, as viewers continue to scout around for rerun alternatives such as NBC’s hidden-camera show “Spy TV” and the stunt-oriented “Fear Factor,” based on viewing estimates issued Tuesday by Nielsen Media Research.
June 27, 2001
Television * Network promises ‘rat free’ viewing with a revised prime time schedule that takes ‘well-thought-out risks,’ including less ‘Millionaire.’
July 23, 2001
After shying away from the genre, advertisers have finally come around to unscripted TV -- at least for shows like ‘The Apprentice.’
May 17, 2004
NBC’s new series challenges viewers to endure a brain-numbing hour of pinheads-in-peril programming.
June 18, 2001
A few reality-TV series still enjoy hit status, but the genre isn’t the ratings knockout it once was.
Nov. 15, 2004
Re “ ‘Kidnapped’ by Drivel, We Invite World Hatred,” Commentary, Feb. 7: Although I appreciate Norah Vincent’s effort to flag the “soulless frippery” (great words) of current shows like “Fear Factor,” “The Chair,” “Kidnapped,” etc., it was overkill to use the seriousness of reporter Daniel Pearl’s abduction for contrast, as was the suggestion that these programs justify “world hatred.”
Feb. 10, 2002
The TV networks trot out some unscripted series whose numbers are pretty much a draw.
Sept. 7, 2001