The Fall of ‘Honey Boo Boo’ Is the Death Knell of Trashy Reality TV

Networks are starting to look up, instead of downmarket, for new programming

TLC

A shift is occurring in reality television.

Networks are beginning to look at their programming slates and realizing that the celebration of American subcultures like “Jersey Shore,” “Teen Mom,” “Hoarders,” “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” and “Duck Dynasty” are losing viewers. That’s enough motivation on its own to make a change.

But when you add in the risk factor of these nonfiction stars’ unedited beliefs and lifestyles getting out to the world, networks are also finding that the costs to their brand are outweighing the benefits.

See photos: 11 TV Shows Canceled by Controversy – From ‘Honey Boo Boo’ to ‘Politically Incorrect’

TLC’s recent bout with “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” is a timely example.

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