America’s Funniest Home Videos: Everything we know so far

America’s Funniest Home Videos (AFV) continues to captivate audiences as it enters its 35th season, solidifying its status as ABC's longest-running primetime entertainment series. The renewal highlights the show’s ongoing appeal and its significant place in television history.

In May 2024, Rob Mills, EVP of Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment at Walt Disney Television emphasized the show's remarkable achievement. He shared a statement with Deadline that read:

“To be able to celebrate a landmark 35th season of AFV is nothing short of a privilege. The success of this series is a true testament to Vin Di Bona and his team, who have made groin-hits, cat and dog fails, and embarrassing moments a staple of American culture.”

Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro since 2015, America’s Funniest Home Videos has grown to be associated with relatable and funny experiences that regular people record on camera. According to the ABC Network website, AFV remains a significant part of American pop culture, with over 2 million video clips evaluated and more than $17 million in prize money awarded since its inception.

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America’s Funniest Home Videos' origin and evolution

Bob Saget at The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences' 40th Student Academy Awards - Source: Getty

In 1989, America’s Funniest Home Videos debuted as a special on Thanksgiving. A weekly series followed in January 1990. The show was conceived by Vin Di Bona and was modeled on the Japanese variety show Fun TV with Kato-chan and Ken-chan. The idea behind the show, which let viewers upload their home footage, provided an interactive component and made it a hit.

AFV has had many hosts, beginning with Bob Saget, the program's face in its early years. John Fugelsang, Daisy Fuentes, and D.L. followed Saget as the program's co-hosts. Hughley and Richard King presented several programs as well. Alfonso Ribeiro took over as host for season 26 in 2015 and has prospered under his direction.

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Production and format

Vin Di Bona Productions, a division of V10 Entertainment, produces America’s Funniest Home Videos. Michele Nasraway and Vin Di Bona serve as executive producers. Every week, the show's production staff assesses thousands of user-submitted home movies and chooses the funniest and most engaging segments to air.

The show has influenced how individuals exchange and consume content, which has had a big cultural impact in the country. Before social media sites like YouTube and TikTok appeared, the show was among the first on television to feature user-generated content.

These submissions often include children’s playful antics, pets behaving in unpredictable ways, and family members caught in funny or awkward situations. For example, a classic clip from America's Funniest Home Videos episode might feature a toddler giggling uncontrollably as a dog steals their toy, or a family member experiencing a harmless yet hilarious mishap while attempting a backyard stunt.

The program also features a competitive component in which viewers vote, or a panel of judges chooses the best videos, with cash prizes awarded to the victors.

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AFV's spin-off show: America's Funniest People

The makers of America’s Funniest Home Videos are committed to carrying on the hilarious tradition of their program as it moves into its 35th season. The show's creator, Vin Di Bona, is pleased with AFV's achievements since 1989. The show is now syndicated in over 103 territories.

Thanks to its popularity, the makers ran a follow-up program titled America's Funniest People from 1990 to 1994. Recently, the AFV's official Instagram account posted about the spin-off series, calling for submissions from across the country on May 16, 2024. This series aims to showcase a broader range of comedic and entertaining acts, continuing the AFV tradition of celebrating real-life humor in innovative ways.

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America's Funniest Home Videos airs new episodes every Sunday at 7/6c on ABC. The show is a must-watch for families and individuals looking for light-hearted entertainment.