Television has undoubtedly had a massive impact on our society and culture. By bringing the art of visual storytelling into the homes of millions, the telecommunications industry has both educated and entertained our world since its inception, and its effects still permeate our culture today. It’s no wonder that in 1997, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed Nov. 21 as World Television Day “in recognition of the increasing impact television has on decision-making by alerting world attention to conflicts and threats to peace and security and its potential role in sharpening the focus on other major issues, including economic and social issues.”
In honor of this special day, we would like to celebrate television and its influence upon our world by remembering those who most awkwardly came before us. We can never forget their dutiful sacrifice of dignity and self-respect that gives us our own sense of confidence and self-worth today. We celebrate those unsung heroes who never did it for the fame of “going viral” and yet still gave us some of the most truly cringeworthy moments our eyes have ever gazed upon. These forefathers of YouTube are a constant reminder that deep personal anguish, coupled with public humiliation, is a painful bar to straddle. And with the days of Netflix and Hulu, it becomes our digital duty to honor the OG’s of fine entertainment by enjoying some of the most unsettling and downright sad moments in TV history, with a humble tribute.
1. Crying Guy from A&E’s “Intervention”
At this point, it’s hard to know whether to laugh or cry.
2. “I Like Turtles” Kid
Didn’t see that one coming.
3. Kanye West Interrupts Taylor Swift
There were so many Kanye moments to choose from, but this is one of the most memorable without a doubt.
4. Carl Lewis Sings the National Anthem
At least it was a strong finish.
5. News Anchor Can’t Even…
OK, this is more funny than awkward. Try not to laugh.
6. Jet Pack Fail
But it was going to be so great!
7. Steve Harvey Announces the Wrong Miss America
I don’t know who to feel worse for…
8. Ashlee Simpson’s Lip Sync Debacle on SNL
At least she had a cool jig to shake them haters off.
9. Grape Stomping Fail
She just wanted to get a few more stomps in! Can you blame her?
10. Boom Goes the Dynamite
He had such promise.
11. Drunk Joe Namath
The reporter took it well.
12. Bobby Knight and Jeremy Schaap Interview
The whole interview is kind of grueling, but at 25:16 Bobby (sorry…Mr. Knight) gets a little testy.
13. Shaq
Again, so many to choose from here, but Shaq has a zinger at 1:04.
14. Miss Teen USA – South Carolina
It was a difficult question, after all.