Mental Floss

TV

Pop TV

How reality TV and an heiress inspired the show's iconic characters—plus many more behind-the-scenes facts about 'Schitt's Creek.'

Erin McCarthy


Hulu

It was only a matter of time before the television remake trend found its way back to Hannibal, Murdock, Face, and B.A. Baracus, the four mercenaries better known as The A-Team.

Therese Oneill






Brendon Thorne, Getty Images

Dolly Parton is loved, lauded, and larger than life, and she might just be the most charitable celebrity on the planet.

Kristy Puchko, Erika Wolf
NBC

Until the impressive record was surpassed by 'The West Wing in 2000', 'Hill Street Blues' held the title of most Emmy-awarded freshman series, with eight trophies for its debut season alone (despite its basement-level ratings).

Roger Cormier




ABC

The nighttime soap you have to thank for the 1980s shoulder pad trend made its debut on this day in 1981.

Garin Pirnia




HBO

The Emmy-nominated HBO series, which was inspired by George W. Bush, spurred controversy within the Mormon community.

Garin Pirnia