Are you ready for headlines that you know aren’t true? If so, you’re ready for April Fools’ Day on the Internet. Couple that with some light-hearted (and sometimes not so light-hearted) pranking fun on your screens. For those planning a day of laughter and mischief, here are seven classic and contemporary prank shows that will keep you entertained and possibly inspire your next practical joke.
Punk’d
(Where to Watch: Paramount+, Hulu, Pluto, Amazon Prime Video)
Initially hosted by Ashton Kutcher, “Punk’d” set the gold standard for celebrity prank shows. From setting up elaborate scenarios to fool Hollywood stars into believing they’re experiencing their worst nightmares, each episode is a masterclass in deception and hilarity. Whether Justin Timberlake thinks his assets are being repossessed or Drake caught in an earthquake scenario, “Punk’d” delivers unforgettable pranks.
“Punk’d” quickly became a cultural phenomenon upon its release, redefining celebrity prank shows with its high-profile targets and elaborate setups. From Taylor Swift to Justin Bieber, no one was safe from Kutcher’s wrath. Its success paved the way for numerous similar shows but none could quite capture the magic of seeing A-list celebrities caught off guard. The show’s mix of Candid Camera with Tinseltown Gold made it a standout, proving that even the most famous faces could fall victim to a well-executed prank.
Jackass
(Where to Watch: Paramount+, Pluto, Amazon Prime Video)
More extreme than your typical prank show, “Jackass” features Johnny Knoxville and his crew performing outrageous stunts and pranks on each other and the unsuspecting public. Combining shock value with slapstick humor, “Jackass” is perfect for those who like their comedy with a side of danger.
The show that sparked a franchise and inspired a Youtube generation, “Jackass” garnered a massive following and critical acclaim for its bold, boundary-pushing antics, despite (or perhaps because of) its controversial nature. Unlike other prank shows focused on deception and reactions, “Jackass” was more about self-inflicted pain and stunts that often left its cast injured. It’s this willingness to do anything for entertainment that sets “Jackass” apart, cementing its place in pop culture as a symbol of extreme physical comedy.
The Carbonaro Effect
(Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video)
Magician Michael Carbonaro brings his unique blend of magic and pranks in “The Carbonaro Effect.” Posing in various roles, from store clerk to museum curator, Carbonaro surprises unsuspecting people with seemingly impossible magic tricks, capturing their bewildered reactions on camera.
The illusion-infused pranks of “The Carbonaro Effect” have not only entertained but also amazed audiences, setting it apart with its blend of magical mayhem and hidden camera antics. Michael Carbonaro’s charm and skillful execution won the show critical praise and a dedicated fan base. It distinguishes itself from other prank shows by leaving its participants in awe rather than shock or embarrassment, showcasing the wonder that magic can bring to the everyday.
Walk The Prank
(Where to Watch: Disney+)
Perhaps the most unique on the list, “Walk The Prank” follows a group of kids who pull off pranks on the public in a novel blend of scripted sitcom and real-life stunts. What sets it apart is how it incorporates a storyline for each episode, blending the pranks seamlessly into the narrative for double the fun.
Aimed at a younger audience, “Walk The Prank” found success by merging scripted storytelling with real-life pranks. This innovative format allowed for a more cohesive narrative, making it more engaging for viewers and setting it apart from shows that solely focus on the prank aspect. Its ability to entertain families and deliver laughs without relying on embarrassment or fear helped it carve out a unique space in the prank show genre.
Prank Encounters
(Where to Watch: Netflix)
Hosted by Gaten Matarazzo of “Stranger Things” fame, “Prank Encounters” takes hidden camera pranks to the next level. Each episode sees two strangers unwittingly thrust into a prank that’s part horror movie, part mind-blowing surprise, ensuring a hilarious and eerie experience all around. Think Fear Factor with a slightly younger demographic.
“Prank Encounters” stands out for its blend of the hidden camera genre with horror-comedy elements, creating suspenseful yet humorous situations. The show received mixed reactions. While some praised its inventive pranks and Matarazzo’s hosting, while others criticized it for its premise. However, it differentiates itself by incorporating elements of storytelling typically found in horror movies, providing a uniquely thrilling prank show experience.
Impractical Jokers
By now, everyone knows what this show is about. Four lifelong friends – Q, Murr, Joe, and Sal – challenge each other to perform the most outrageous dares and stunts in public, all captured by hidden cameras. “Impractical Jokers” stands out for the genuine friendship and camaraderie between the jokers, making their reactions and the outcomes of their challenges all the more enjoyable. The show’s success even led to a movie (which can be streamed on Max and on Amazon Prime Video)
The genuine friendships and personalities of the comedy group, “The Tenderloins”, are what help the team embrace their roles on “Impractical Jokers”. Because of that, they have endeared this program to audiences worldwide, making it a standout in the realm of prank shows. The show’s reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with praise for its originality and the cast’s chemistry. Unlike other prank shows that focus on unsuspecting members of the public, “Impractical Jokers” is all about the four friends challenging each other, which brings a relatable and endearing quality to their antics.