27 TV Conspiracy Theories That Turned Out to Be TRUE

27 TV Conspiracy Theories That Turned Out to Be True

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today were diving into facts about television programs that were suspected by cast, crew, members of production, or fans, that were later confirmed to be true.

Jerry Springer Show Was Scripted

The Jerry Springer Show (1991-2018)

Who could forget this wild daytime show that ran for 27 seasons? It started off with politics, then pivoted to cheating scandals, chair-throwing and full-blown chaos, all in the name of ratings - and it paid off. At some point, it even outperformed The Oprah Winfrey Show. Though it was marketed as reality, people started questioning its authenticity. As many rightly suspected, the show wasnt entirely real. In fact, it was heavily manipulated for entertainment purposes. Some guests later admitted they were encouraged to exaggerate their stories and even coached to throw punches. In some cases, the stories were completely fabricated. But are we really surprised at the lengths showbiz will go to rake in profit?

Dean McDermotts Cheating Scandal

True Tori (2014)

Right from the start, Tori Spelling and Dean McDermotts marriage was steeped in controversy. Both were married to others when they began an affair, eventually tying the knot. In 2013, rumors spread that McDermott cheated on Spelling with a 28-year-old Emily Goodhand. The next year, their reality show took off, centered on the fallout from his infidelity. Since Goodhand was untraceable, many suspected the whole thing was a publicity stunt. Its not everyday someone caught in a high-profile scandal just vanishes. Yet, during the reunion special, Spelling insisted that this woman was real and that the affair wrecked her marriage. Years later, she stuck to that story. So it appears instead of handling things privately, Spelling spun her misery into a TV spectacle.

Secret Judge

Top Chef (2006-)

Whether youre a foodie or just hooked on reality TV showdowns, Top Chef serves up a mix of culinary artistry and entertainment. Talented chefs face off in intense challenges under the watchful eyes of respected judges, and one by one, theyre eliminated until a winner emerges. But some have wondered if the judges dont sometimes get a little help. In an interview with Padma Lakshmi, a juicy detail slipped out. Theres a secret fifth judge! Yep, when the panel cant agree, the producers turn to the camera operator T-Bone, for his take. Since he tastes the food while filming, his input adds an extra perspective. Honestly, it sounds like he wields more power than the actual judges, which is kinda awesome.

Phone-In Theft

Various

Back in the 2000s, a major scandal rocked UK TV and radio. In 2007, it was revealed that some of the biggest shows were scamming viewers through rigged phone-in competitions. Yep, people were paying to enter contests they had no chance of winning - and some audience members had suspected something was wrong. Shows like Richard & Judy kept accepting calls even after a winner had been picked. GMTV went as far as choosing winners before the phone lines closed. Some radio stations faked winners entirely, while Blue Peter passed off a studio visitor as the real winner. It was a massive mess and millions were unfairly taken from the public. When Ofcom stepped in, many big-name broadcasters were fined and apologies followed.

Intentional Sabotage

The Nanny (1993-99)

Lets be honest: what made The Nanny so appealing wasnt just Fran Fines flair or the clash of worlds. It was that sizzling will-they-wont-they tension between her and Mr. Sheffield that kept fans hooked. But once they finally got together? Boom - the show ended a season later. And some wondered if outside forces brought about this change in direction.. In a 2017 interview, Fran Drescher and Peter Marc Jacobson revealed that CBS gave them an ultimatum to marry the leads or the show gets axed. So they gave in. To make matters worse, the series was moved to a different time slot, and ratings dipped. Sure, viewer interest may have waned, but its crystal clear that CBS decisions heavily influenced the shows end.

Secret Interview Tactics

Panorama (1953-)

In 1995, BBCs Martin Bashir sat down with Princess Diana in what became one of the most explosive interviews in history. Watched by around 200 million people, it painted a grim picture of her marriage and royal life. It was a huge career win for Bashir, but some wondered why Diana had chosen him for this crucial interview. Years later, the story behind the interview took a darker turn. In 2020, an inquiry by Judge Lord Dyson revealed that forged bank documents had been used to trick Dianas brother into arranging the interview. Although the BBC eventually apologized when the truth broke, Bashir faced no legal repercussions that we know of.

Preselected Contestants

The Price Is Right (1972-)

This game show legend has folks guessing merchandise prices to win big. Random audience members are initially chosen to Come on down- but how random are they, really? In a 2013 chat with long-time producer Stan Blits, he revealed that contestants are pre-screened beforehand. He looks for explosive energy, potential humor and standout personalities. A former contestant also confirmed that with these qualities, you stand a higher chance of being selected. Nothing is quite what it seems, right? Even in 2008, Plinko was accidentally rigged, letting a contestant score up to $30,000 before the error was caught. Talk about a lucky glitch! It makes you wonder what else isnt as spontaneous as it looks on TV.

The Show Was Rigged

Legends of the Hidden Temple (1993-95; 2021-22)

90s kids might remember Legends of the Hidden Temple, a game show which briefly ran on Nickelodeon based around stunts, mythology, and treasure hunting. However, The Temple Run, the shows final and most iconic segment, was often so complex and confusing that many contestants struggled to make it to the prize within the given time limit. This led to some speculation that the show was rigged. And, well, yeah, pretty much. The host, Kirk Fogg, basically admitted as much to Great Big Story, claiming, The producers were only allowed to give out eight championships a year. There was a budget, and thats the truth of that. Dang budgets getting in the way of fun

Restaging Breakups

Love Is Blind (2020-)

Netflixs dating show hooks viewers with a wild premise: meet a stranger, fall in love, and either marry them or walk away. With how insane it sounds, its only natural for people to wonder how real any of it is. But like most reality shows, its not all as raw and real as it seems. In a 2020 interview, former participant Lauren Speed spilled that producers encourage couples to save their breakups for the altar. If you were calling it quits, they wanted it dramatic. So while the emotions might be real, the timing? Not so much.That might explain all those shocking last-minute I dont moments weve come to expect. Anything for compelling drama, right?

Suddenly Killed-Off Susan

Seinfeld (1989-98)

May 16, 1996 was kind of a weird day for Seinfeld fans. Thats when Georges fiancée Susan suddenly ups and dies after licking a number of toxic envelopes. Seriously, she just gets sick and keels over in a matter of seconds. The bizarre and abrupt ending to the story arc was controversial, and some speculated that it wasnt entirely a creative decision. This was confirmed when Jason Alexander appeared on The Howard Stern Show and claimed that actress Heidi Swedberg was difficult to work with. He revealed that many cast members had problems playing off her, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus made a comment about killing off Susan. Larry David loved the idea, and the rest is sitcom history.

John Amos Randomly Disappears

Good Times (1974-79)

Its a bold choice to kill off your main character via letter. Thats what fans of Good Times got when they and the Evans family learned that James had been killed in a car accident. Talk about an anticlimactic goodbye. Naturally, this led some fans to speculate that something fishy was going on behind the scenes. The official word was that Amos left to pursue a film career, but viewers werent buying it. It was Amos himself who revealed the truth, claiming that he had been fired owing to repeated arguments with the producers and for openly criticizing the shows direction. Amos hated the increasing emphasis on J.J.s comedic shenanigans, which he felt undermined the realistic tone of the series.

The Ingram Incident

Who Wants to be a Millionaire (1998-2014; 2018-)

British Army major Charles Ingram was the third contestant to win the top prize on the British version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? During his appearance on the show, Ingram struggled with many of the questions but then seemed to make a series of improbable correct guesses, leading the producers to suspect that something was amiss. They were so suspicious that they refused to hand over the money and launched an official investigation. While reviewing the footage, they found that someone would cough when the correct answer was said - sometimes it came from a waiting contestant, Tecwen Whittock, and other times from Ingrams wife, who was watching in the audience. All three were officially charged, receiving fines and suspended prison sentences.

Much of the Show Is Planned in Advance

Pawn Stars (2009-)

As viewers have long suspected, Pawn Stars engages in a lot of behind-the-scenes trickery. People dont just waltz into the uber-busy store, sell that King Arthur sword they had laying around, and walk out rich. Pawn Stars isnt exactly scripted, and many of the items and sellers are indeed authentic. But they dont just walk in - they are vetted by the producers beforehand, and guests are kicked out of the store to film the pre-planned segments using background extras. This process often requires multiple takes, and the guests are often coached on how to behave on camera. Executive producer Brent Montgomery also told the cast members to buy items they otherwise wouldnt have in order to make good TV.

Patrick Dempsey's Departure

Greys Anatomy (2005-)

It was this medical drama that made Patrick Dempsey a star. So it was kind of odd when he suddenly up and left in April 2015. He claimed that he wanted to spend more time with his family, but some fans thought there were ulterior motives. They were somewhat vindicated in 2021, when the book How to Save a Life was published. While its true that Dempsey left over scheduling issues, that wasnt the whole story. The books authors reveal that Dempsey turned into a nightmare, often terrorizing the set and bringing up [HR] issues. They also claim that some cast members had all sorts of PTSD with him. The details are murky, but his behavior led to his swift exit from the series.

Theres No Shopping Involved

House Hunters (1999-)

This enduringly popular show sees a couple touring a number of houses - typically three - and then choosing one to buy. But as many have long suspected, theres not actually much hunting to be found on House Hunters. People involved with the show have come forward throughout the years claiming that they had already purchased their house before appearing on the show. Producers typically have them tour their own recently-purchased home, along with two other random houses they have no intention of buying. These houses are often volunteer homes, Airbnb rentals, and even places belonging to friends of the cast and crew. After touring all three houses, the couple then chooses their own in a staged debate filmed for the camera.

Jeffrey DeMunn Was Loyal to Frank Darabont

The Walking Dead (2010-22)

Its not rare for shows to diverge from their source material, but this one had many curious aspects that had fans raising their eyebrows. Jeffrey DeMunns Dale Horvath was killed off in a rather abrupt manner, and long before his print counterpart died in the comics. This was a rather curious decision. But it also coincided with the controversial departure of showrunner Frank Darabont, who was fired over budgetary disagreements. As DeMunn is a regular in Darabonts films, viewers knew the timing wasnt just a crazy coincidence. Back in 2018, DeMunn confirmed the theory to Cleveland.com, stating that he quit the show after Darabont was fired.

The Bill Cosby Problem

The Cosby Show (1984-92)

This sitcom helped define the 1980s with its topical themes, cozy atmosphere, and lead performance of Bill Cosby, who grew to be known as Americas Dad. But there was an intense, underlying darkness circulating the show, even if many people didnt want to believe it. Rumors swirled that Cosby had a history of sexual violence - a history that stretched back twenty years to the mid 60s. Women like Joan Tarshis and Wendy Williams made reference to Cosbys sketchy history while the show was still airing, and the tabloid National Enquirer ran stories about the allegations. However, these claims were largely ignored. It wasnt until 2014 that Cosbys downfall truly began, and we can never return to The Cosby Show in the same way.

Ending On Bad Terms

Sex and the City (1998-2004)

Carrie Bradshaw and Samantha Jones were a breakthrough for female friendship on TV. Sadly, that dynamic was plagued by rumors of tensions between Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Cattrall, especially over salary. These rumors were confirmed after the series finale. Pay disputes even factored into the show's end. Fans thus suspected that Samantha was written out of the revival series "And Just Like That..." out of spite. Well, Parker later announced that Cattrall wasn't even invited to return. It was simply understood that she wouldn't be interested after begrudgingly doing two "Sex and the City" movies. Luckily for fans, Cattrall made an appearance in the second season of "And Just Like That...". Whether Samantha is here to stay may still depend on Cattrall and Parker.

Izzies Tumor

Greys Anatomy (2005-)

Medical residents are known to work unhealthy hours. Apparently, so are medical show casts. Playing Dr. Izzie Stevens on Greys Anatomy, actress Katherine Heigl was termed difficult to work with and regularly spoke out against onerous working conditions. In 2008, she withdrew her name from Emmy consideration because she felt her role was underwritten. So the following season, Izzie was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Co-star James Pickens Jr. soon confirmed popular suspicions that this arc was written to keep Heigl in line. Izzie "just happened" to make a remarkable recovery after Heigl's contract negotiations. Her on-set antics still got her axed after Season 6, but she's now more critical of her own behavior than the show.

Fake Cash

Cash Cab (2005-20)

The fast-paced quiz show "Cash Cab" played to the fantasy that anyone could win big at any moment. Riders in the cab won money from host Ben Bailey based on correct answers to a series of questions. Many viewers assumed that contestants' winnings didn't actually come in cash. Sure enough, the dollar bills that winners flashed at the camera were props. They later received their prize money by mailed check for tax purposes. That is, if they didn't void their winnings by divulging production secrets. "Cash Cab" was serious about its illusions. Some contestants have even defied the NDA to reveal that they were recruited before entering Bailey's taxi. But the prop bills perfectly reflect how "Cash Cab" is deceptive down to the title.

Sometimes You Gotta Go

Cheers (1982-93)

Carla Tortellis abrasive personality is more endearing to Cheers fans than the shows characters. The single mothers lonely days seemed over when she married Eddie LeBec, until he died in a freak Zamboni accident. This dark and bizarre twist was so removed from Cheers tone that viewers suspected vindictiveness behind it. Eddies actor Jay Thomas had jokingly lamented kissing Rhea Perlman on a radio show he hosted. He himself theorized that this comment got him fired. In 2006, a writer on the show revealed that Perlman did in fact have Eddie written off to spite Thomas. Eddie was even posthumously outed as a polygamist conman. Though Thomas claimed he meant to insult Carla, rather than her actress, he should have watched his words.

Leno Steals the Show

The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (1992-2009; 2010-14)

With NBC's "Late Night with David Letterman" considered a worthy lead-in from Johnny Carson, Letterman was poised to succeed Carson upon his retirement in 1992. Instead, comedian Jay Leno took over "The Tonight Show." This sparked enormous controversy among audiences and within the industry. As Leno had become Carson's resident guest host, many suspected a backroom deal to oust Letterman. It wasn't until the 2021 docuseries "The Story of Late Night" when it was revealed that Leno really did have a secret succession contract. Letterman's conflicts with NBC executives actually cinched this deal. Though Leno overcame his initial ratings slump to become as big as CBS's Letterman, the two have been feuding ever since Leno's deal was just speculation.

Good Guy Gordon

Hells Kitchen (2005-)

Gordon Ramsay is hailed as one of the most popular chefs in the world and one of the biggest jerks on TV. Especially in its American adaptation, Ramsay hosts the aptly named "Hell's Kitchen" with deliciously diabolical intensity. Many fans are skeptical that he's really bringing that much heat. He is notably more reserved on such other shows as "MasterChef." True, Ramsay has his share of feuds with other celebrity chefs. But his TV apprentices assert that he's a great and patient mentor. He also has a reputation of being devoted to family, philanthropy and fans. The caricature of his perfectionism is just an entertaining alter ego. As cranky as Ramsay does get when his restaurants lag in quality, he clearly takes his brand seriously.

"The Puppy Episode"

Ellen (1994-98)

As a 1990s sitcom star, Ellen DeGeneres was a popular figure but also the subject of rampant rumors about her sexuality. There was intense speculation about whether she was gay and if her personal orientation would have any effect on her sitcom character. The strict secrecy surrounding production of the cryptically named "Puppy Episode" led many to suspect something big. Indeed, the episode followed Ellen Morgan's realization that she's gay. Perhaps not so coincidentally, DeGeneres herself came out on the cover of Time magazine at about the time the episode aired. Sadly, the backlash and boycotts resulted in Ellens cancellation the next year. ABC's important breakthrough was soured by their refusal to fight for it.

So Bad It's Good TV

American Idol (2002-16; 2018-)

It's no secret that American Idol hopefuls have mere seconds to wow scouts and producers in a series of preliminary auditions. The real mystery is how a lot of so-called singers get past that round. The popular theory was that the producers included some of the worst auditions for comic relief. Indeed, "American Idol"'s strange or downright terrible singers are such a phenomenon that televised auditions were arranged around that trope. However, out of concern that this tradition was exploitative, producer Trish Kinane ended it with the show's 2018 revival. "American Idol" is popular and entertaining enough without having to publicly humiliate people.

Playing Matchmaker

The Bachelor (2002-)

Romance on "The Bachelor" tends to be polarizing. It's also meticulously manufactured. Producers plan dates, arrange interactions, and basically keep the cast trapped. Cynics have long suspected that even the Bachelors' decisions are predetermined. In 2018, former executive producer Scott Jeffress confirmed that contestants really are advanced or eliminated partially based on audience response. Contestant-turned-Bachelorette Ali Fedotowsky claimed that this practice extends to the spin-offs. There are assurances that producers only completely control how rose ceremonies play out, and that their influence on stars declines as the competition progresses. Of course, the unfair pressure placed on these courtships is well-documented. Directly or indirectly, "Bachelor Nation"'s controversial love stories give too much agency to off-screen Cupids.

The Quiz Show Scandal

Twenty-One (1956-1958)

Quiz shows were popular TV programs in the 1950s. NBCs "Twenty-One" was a big hit, especially for the rivalry between Charles Van Doren and Herbert Stempel. A defeated Stempel later upended public perception of the show by claiming that it was extensively staged. On top of confirming that "Twenty-One" contestants were given answers and choreographed for drama, congressional investigations discovered that most quiz shows were rigged. The scandal was so immense that it basically killed the genre. "Jeopardy!" revived it in '64, with gameplay that made it hard to cheat. Still, after being immortalized by Robert Redford's "Quiz Show," the 1950s rigging trend is considered one of the most scandalous TV conspiracies ever. That is, among the ones we know of.

Which of these hidden truths shocked you the most? Let us know in the comment section.