MTV has officially canceled its long-running comedy clip series, “Ridiculousness,” after an impressive 14-year run and 46 seasons. This decision marks the end of an era for the show, which has become a staple of the network since its debut in August 2011. Although no new episodes will be produced, fans can look forward to previously filmed first-run episodes airing until 2026, ensuring that the series will remain a part of MTV's programming for a while longer.
Hosted by Rob Dyrdek, along with co-hosts Chanel West Coast and Lauren “Lolo” Wood, “Ridiculousness” has entertained audiences with a unique blend of viral videos showcasing failed stunts and “Jackass”-style antics. The show is characterized by its comedic analysis and mockery, a format that has garnered a loyal fanbase over the years. With over 1,700 episodes, it is recognized as one of the longest-running series in MTV history.
According to sources familiar with the cancellation, MTV's decision to end “Ridiculousness” is part of a larger initiative to curate a more refined slate of content. The network aims to embrace its “experimental DNA” and promote “different creative voices” as well as a “refreshed programming” approach. This strategic pivot comes as MTV, under the Paramount umbrella, seeks to redefine its offerings and move away from reliance on reruns, which have characterized its recent programming.
In fact, the reruns of “Ridiculousness” have dominated MTV’s linear programming for years. Reports from Variety in 2020 indicated that the series accounted for an astonishing 113 hours of the network's weekly 168-hour lineup. This overwhelming presence led many to view the show as a symbol of MTV's programming challenges, particularly its struggle to deliver original content.
Just a day before the cancellation news broke, Bloomberg revealed that MTV was paying Rob Dyrdek a staggering $32.5 million annually. This hefty paycheck, which includes bonuses, a $21,000-per-episode executive producer fee, and an escalating $61,000-per-episode on-camera fee, underscores the financial commitment the network made to the series. With hundreds of new episodes ordered each year, these costs added up significantly.
The cancellation of “Ridiculousness” marks a significant cutback for MTV as Paramount restructures its brands following its $8 billion merger with David Ellison’s Skydance. As the network moves forward, it will be interesting to see what new content emerges to fill the void left by this iconic series.
While fans of “Ridiculousness” will undoubtedly miss the show's unique brand of humor, the cancellation reflects MTV's commitment to evolving its programming strategy. As the network looks to the future, viewers can expect a more diverse and innovative slate of content that resonates with today's audience.
