23 Shows That Changed Television

What started out as a sleepy summertime U.S. adaptation of a British format (remember Ryan Seacrest’s co-host, Bryan Dunkleman?) quickly exploded into an international phenomenon, launching the musical careers of Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Carrie Underwood, and many others—and making Simon Cowell a household name. American Idol now anchors Fox’s schedule for half its season, and has transformed the way that Americans interact with reality shows, giving viewers a massive stake in the outcome. The show’s three-judge format (including one mean British judge) was quickly copied by an interminable number of other reality formats and is now considered an industry standard (though Idol itself has subverted its own format by recently shifting to a four-person judging panel). The aspirational aspect of the show can be seen in America’s Next Top Model, The Biggest Loser, and So You Think You Can Dance. But Idol is the rare beast that combines a true talent incubator with a crowd-pleasing elimination-style showdown, resulting in an unstoppable ratings juggernaut.