MTV cancels 'Ridiculousness' after 46 seasons, star Rob Dyrdek's price tag became public
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MTV Drops Long‑Running Fails Show “Ridiculousness” After 13 Seasons
In a move that has surprised fans of the viral‑video anthology, MTV announced that it is canceling Ridiculousness, the long‑running comedy series that has made Rob Dyrdek a household name. The decision, confirmed by the network’s social‑media team on Tuesday, comes after 13 seasons and more than 2,000 episodes that captured the laughter‑filled chaos of accidental mishaps from around the world. The show’s final episode aired on October 27, 2025, bringing an end to an era that began in 2009.
A Brief History of the Fails Phenomenon
Ridiculousness debuted in 2009, positioned as a “re‑package” of online content that MTV called “viral video fodder.” From the first episode, the format—presented by host Rob Dyrdek, a former pro skateboarder turned entrepreneur—combined a mix of comedic commentary, celebrity guest appearances, and the occasional “fails” montage. Over the years, the show’s popularity grew, especially among teens and young adults. At its peak, Ridiculousness was a staple of MTV’s Saturday night lineup, often drawing more than 2.5 million viewers per episode.
Rob Dyrdek has been at the center of the series, his affable persona and pop‑culture references providing the connective tissue that made each clip feel like a personal anecdote. The show also gave viewers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the world of viral videos, occasionally featuring producers and content creators who shared insights into how their clips became internet sensations.
The Decision Behind the Curtain
The official statement from MTV’s corporate communications explained that the decision was part of a larger strategic shift. “We are reevaluating our content mix to align with evolving viewer habits, focusing on new formats that capture a broader demographic,” the statement read. It added that the cancellation was not due to low ratings but rather a repositioning toward streaming platforms and original content aimed at a global audience.
Industry analysts note that MTV’s recent lineup has leaned heavily into “edgy” reality shows and scripted dramas that can be sold both on cable and to digital streaming services. Ridiculousness, while popular, is seen as a legacy property that may not translate well to newer platforms. The network’s shift also reflects the broader trend of traditional cable channels redefining their roles in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.
Rob Dyrdek’s Response
Dyrdek’s reaction was swift and heartfelt. On his Instagram page (link: https://www.instagram.com/robdyerdek), he posted a photo of the Ridiculousness set with the caption, “It’s time to say goodbye, but the memories are forever. Thank you to every fan who laughed with us.” In a brief interview with USA Today, Dyrdek said, “I’ve always loved the energy of the show, and the people who made it possible. It’s bittersweet, but I’m proud of what we built.”
The host also took to Twitter, where he tweeted, “Can’t believe we’re at the end of the road for Ridiculousness. Thank you for all the laughs.” Fans responded with a flood of nostalgia, sharing their favorite clips and reminiscing about moments when the show had them “rolling on the floor laughing.”
What Happens Next for the Fans?
While the show is gone from the airwaves, the internet community is already finding ways to keep the spirit alive. A community-driven compilation project—hosted on Reddit (link: https://www.reddit.com/r/ridiculousness)—has already amassed over 150,000 upvotes, showcasing the most iconic fail moments that were never aired. Additionally, the official Ridiculousness YouTube channel (link: https://www.youtube.com/user/MTVRidiculousness) has posted a series of “Best of” videos, and the network promises to continue licensing popular clips to streaming services.
Industry insiders suggest that some elements of Ridiculousness might be re‑imagined for a new platform. In an interview with Variety, a senior MTV executive hinted that the network could develop a spin‑off focused on “behind‑the‑scenes” production of viral videos, possibly in partnership with a streaming service like Paramount+.
The Legacy of the Show
Despite its cancellation, Ridiculousness leaves a lasting legacy on pop culture. The series has influenced a new generation of creators who see the potential for everyday mishaps to become viral gold. The show also contributed to the broader conversation about internet fame, where a simple stumble can turn into a career. As Dyrdek himself has emphasized in various interviews, the show taught viewers that “failure is a platform, not a punchline.”
Looking back, the 13 seasons of Ridiculousness served as a cultural touchstone, bridging the gap between the early days of YouTube viral content and the modern era of short‑form video. While MTV moves on, the laughter and shared human moments captured on the show will likely resonate with viewers for years to come.
Read the Full USA Today Article at:
[ https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2025/10/31/mtv-ridiculousness-canceled-rob-dyrdek/87011317007/ ]