Five Classic Talent Shows You Forgot About

Before The X Factor and The Voice, there were a number of talent shows that paved the way for more modern juggernauts, showcasing hidden gems and bringing unforgettable performances to our living rooms. Now that there's renewed interest into behind the scenes of many of these shows, here’s a nostalgic look at five you may have forgotten about, but are well worth remembering:

1. Star Search (1983–1995, 2003–2004)

Before The X Factor was even a twinkle in Simon Cowell’s eye, there was Star Search. Hosted by Ed McMahon, this show was the launchpad for some of today’s biggest stars, including Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, and Beyoncé. Contestants competed in categories like singing, comedy, and modelling, making it a diverse platform for showcasing talent. Its “winner takes all” format created palpable tension, and the talent it unearthed is a testament to its impact on entertainment history.

2. Fame Academy (2002–2003)

A British precursor to The X Factor, Fame Academy was part talent show, part reality TV. Contestants lived together in a house and trained intensively in singing, song-writing, and performance. Each week, they performed live, with viewers voting to save their favourites. While it didn’t last long, the show produced stars like Lemar, who went on to have a successful music career. Its combination of reality TV drama and genuine artist development made it compelling viewing, even if its run was short-lived.

3. The Gong Show (1976–1989)

This quirky and unpredictable talent show turned the traditional format on its head. Hosted by the eccentric Chuck Barris, contestants performed bizarre and often hilarious acts, while celebrity judges used a giant gong to stop performances they couldn’t bear to watch any longer. Its chaotic energy and tongue-in-cheek humour made it a cult classic, and its influence can still be seen in modern talent shows that embrace novelty acts.

4. New Faces (1973–1978)

This British talent show was a prime-time hit, offering a stage for comedians, singers, and variety acts to showcase their skills. Judged by industry professionals, New Faces introduced audiences to a wave of fresh talent, including comedian Victoria Wood and musician Lenny Henry. It was one of the first talent shows to take amateur performers seriously and provide a pathway to mainstream success.

5. Popstars (2000–2002)

This ground-breaking reality talent show was one of the first to document the creation of a manufactured pop group, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the audition process, training, and ultimate selection of the band members. In the UK, the show formed Hear’Say, whose debut single “Pure and Simple” became a massive hit. Popstars wasn’t just about individual talent—it explored group dynamics, teamwork, and the challenges of the music industry. Its success paved the way for future shows like Pop Idol and The X Factor, which refined and expanded the formula for global audiences.