Public-access television is where the wild and weird collide! Before YouTube, it was a platform for anyone to broadcast their creations. This led to some low-budget, controversial, and downright bizarre shows you had to see to believe. Get ready for a trip down memory lane with the ten most fascinating public access programs ever aired!
rAw TiMe
Airing from Austin, Texas, in the late ’90s and early 2000s, rAw TiMe played a mix of music videos from Björk to Rammstein. Hosts took live calls, and the standout was a goth named Tinarina (aka Tiffy). Callers would often hurl insults at Tinarina, but she handled each one with wit and composure, becoming a cult hit. Tinarina’s ability to remain unfazed made her an icon, and her choice to stay out of the spotlight since feels like the ultimate clap back to internet trolls.
Stairway to Stardom
Stairway to Stardom, a talent show from New York City in the 1980s, has been called the “original American Idol.” With its basic setup and encouraging presenter, performances ranged from wannabe pop stars to comedians. The performers weren’t always the most talented, but their passion made for unforgettable TV. This show remains mystical, and is something no modern show could replicate!
Sister Who Presents
Sister Who, a self-described nun and spiritual educator, hosted a talk show about life and spirituality out of Denver, Colorado, during the 1990s. With unique makeup and attire, Sister Who’s appearance could be frightening at first. However, despite the visual theatrics, the presenter genuinely tried to connect with the audience. You can still find Sister Who’s albums, hiking pictures, and new episodes of the show on their website.
The Asylum for Shut-Ins: Video Psychotherapy
Airing in the late ’80s out of Cleveland, Ohio, The Asylum for Shut-Ins aimed to disturb its viewers. Hosted by “The Doctor,” a manic ventriloquist dummy with sunglasses, the show featured unsettling clips from horror films and music videos. It was created by Ted Zbozien, a professional editor, as a means to flex his skills. The Asylum for Shut-Ins remains an endurance challenge for even the biggest horror fans.
Mystic Kids Funtime
Don’t let the name fool you! Mystic Kids Funtime is more like a psychedelic trip than a children’s show. Created by Ross Wilsey, it’s hosted by the “Mystic Guru” puppet. The show defies explanation, with hallucinatory effects, bizarre outbursts, and odd editing choices. This show delivers a unique, eye-popping experience.
Dinner Dancing with Frank Pacholski
Frank Pacholski, based in Los Angeles, performed interpretive dance for confused senior citizens wearing flag-themed underwear. Then he would pour salad dressing over himself. With bagpipes playing, Frank covers himself in food. Why? We may never know, but thanks to public access, this made it to TV before the internet.
The One Man Show: Spirit of Truth
Starring Don Vincent (aka Vincent Stewart), this Los Angeles public access show featured profanity-filled sermons. Vincent, calling himself “God,” talked smack to callers who disagreed with him. The show was dropped after Vincent mooned the camera. However, clips went viral, drawing attention from Howard Stern and Daniel Tosh.
Unwind with the Sweeties
Unwind with the Sweeties features a couple known as the “Sweeties” hanging out and performing mundane activities while wearing ski masks. The show is nonsensical, surreal, and random, garnering a cult following online. Little is known about the duo or their intentions, and you probably won’t unwind while watching.
The Church of Shooting Yourself
Airing on Manhattan Neighborhood Network in the 1990s, this show starred Rik Little as Rik Arithmetic. He reported on events in the East Village, documenting sinful behavior and preaching his religion: the Church of Shooting Yourself. “Shooting” means using a camera to record ourselves so we can repent. The result blurs reality and fiction.
Let’s Paint TV
John Kilduff, the host, tries to paint, exercise, and perform a third task while taking calls. According to John, it’s not about succeeding, it’s about persevering and experimenting. Although largely ignored by mainstream media, his inspirational message struck a chord with many, including comedian Eric Andre.
Public access TV offered a unique platform for unfiltered creativity, leading to some of the weirdest and most wonderful shows ever broadcasted. These shows remind us that sometimes, the most memorable content comes from the most unexpected places.
What’s the weirdest public access show you’ve ever seen? Leave your comment below!
