Five Iconic Reality Shows from the 1950s Still Reshaping Television Today

4. Ant-Holding Show

Creator: Reza Mirlohi
Years Active: Late 1970s

The “Ant-Holding Show” broke ground as a traditional musical and satirical entertainment format on Iranian National Television during the festivities of Nowruz. It was designed to blend elements of theater with modern television, creating a unique portrayal of Iranian life and culture.

Reza Mirlohi, the visionary behind the show, took cues from traditional Iranian arts and crafts, transforming them into engaging narratives suitable for television. The show not only entertained but also educated audiences about their cultural heritage, showcasing how traditional art forms could be integrated into contemporary media. The work done here played a crucial role in preserving Iranian cultural expressions during a time of significant social change.