The Rise & Fall Of Shock Jocks

Now that there are so many platforms to consume to content, it’s easy forget how outrageous and impactful shock jocks were on radio. Vice took a probative look at several of the personalities who were given the “shock jock” label in its “Dark Side Of The 2000s” series. Two episodes were dedicated to document both the rise and the fall of shock jocks, and both are fascinating.

In comparison to traditional radio, these personalities are accurately likened to professional wrestlers. Instead of criticizing the Talent, Vice points out how successful and influential so many of them were. In addition, the push back from the FCC was highlighted.

Howard Stern is credited as the first radio personality to be called a “shock jock,” and instead of defining his career by its ups and downs, Vice notes the evolution. From brutal radio battles that became really personal and antics that went way too farHoward Stern is now recognized for his thoughtful interviews. But other shock jocks don’t fare so well. Mancow’s bitterness towards Howard Stern seems to be the focus of his interviews, and the downfall of Anthony Cumia from “The Opie & Anthony Show” was very prominent.

If you missed the shock jock episodes from Vice’s “Dark Side Of The 2000s,” they can be streamed on Hulu via the links below.

Shock Jocks Part 1: The Rise

Shock Jocks Part 2: The Fall