Streaming giant Netflix takes viewers back to the 90s with its latest docuseries, "Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action." Directed by Luke Sewell, this two-part miniseries explores the inner workings of "The Jerry Springer Show" while reigniting debates over its political influence and ethical implications.
Naturally, the show kicks off with a limited back story on Mr. Springer and how his show, in which every episode, was conceived and programmed to bring in the highest number of viewers. The series opens the door and examines how creators managed, sometimes tamed, actual interpersonal drama. Witness accounts of production crew members tell of moral quandaries always looming against pressures to keep up and beat audience records. Guests tell us about the effects on their lives, and we hear it unfold in real life, not just on camera.
Growing up in the nineties, I still remember the moment Jerry became most TV, and his celebrity was so massive that R&B songstress Brandy featured the show in one of her videos, made a movie appearance, and even guest starred on "The Simpsons." This miniseries works because the show's producers fully tap into the Andy Warhol quote, "Everyone will be famous for 15 minutes".
On the one hand, I couldn't help but roll my eyes at the extreme measures the producers took to incite conflict among the guests. Yet, upon reflection, their tactics aren't far removed from the sensational antics of some influencers striving for viral fame. One of the most gut-wrenching aspects of the show is the revisitation of "Secret Mistresses Confronted." This segment is particularly chilling as it recounts a tragic story that escalated into an actual murder sparked by a tumultuous love triangle that spiraled out of control.
"Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action" is a quick watch, but there were a few missed opportunities. I was taken aback that we never heard from any of Springer's kids or family about how they dealt with the fame. Additionally, it would have been great to hear from some of the more memorable guests, such as Rufus and Tremaine, who made more than one appearance on the show.
Nonetheless, 'Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action' provides a compelling examination of ethical considerations in television programming."
"Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action" premieres globally on Netflix on January 7, 2025
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