my favorite "real" moments in TV history

These are in no particular order. Truth be told, I compiled this list while drinking my morning coffee, so it's neither exhaustive, nor definitive. I'm probably forgetting some amazing moments. Oh well, set me straight in the comments, and I'll add worthy suggestions to this entry.

Snooki gets punched

I've never watched an episode of the Jersey Shore, but I don't really feel bad for this Snooki gal.

Ashlee Simpson gets exposed

You mean Ashlee Simpson isn't a talented vocalist? What?! She further compounds the problem by offering up some truly horrific dancing.

MTV Real World: "The Slap"

Many years ago, I watched a decent amount of MTV's The Real World. I don't even know if it's still on the air, but in the late-90s, during the Seattle season, there was a great little sequence involving housemates Irene and Stephen. Long story short, Irene was having some sort of problems (later blamed on Lyme's disease), and decided to leave the show. Prior to exiting, she had one last thing to say to Stephen. Unless you're a glutton for punishment, you'll want to fast-forward to the 6:30 mark.

Geraldo Rivera "skinhead brawl"

One of the most memorable talk show moments ever results in Geraldo getting his nose broken.

Tom Cruise on Oprah

Without question, this is where Tom Cruise jumped the proverbial shark, instantly transforming himself from an international superstar to an international curiosity. Notice all of the women freaking out at the beginning. Does anybody still feel that way about this guy? Oprah was obviously dumbfounded. Either way, when Katie Holmes makes her entrance towards the end, I'm pretty sure she realized that she was making a horrible decision (of course they're still together, so what do I know?).

Tom Cruise lectures Matt Lauer on psychiatry

Just a month after frightening Oprah, Dr. Tom Cruise drops some mad knowledge (i.e. Wikipedia entries) on Today co-host Matt Lauer regarding psychology, psychiatry, and prescription medication. Things get particularly interesting around 2:45.

Bill O'Reilly angered by guest

I don't really have anything to say about this, other than it's always funny to watch Bill O'Reilly get angry.

Rosie O'Donnell vs. Elisabeth Hasselbeck

Rosie O'Donnell is annoying. Elisabeth Hasselbeck is annoying. When the two argue, entertaining inanity ensues.

Bill O'Reilly: rage against the teleprompter

You haven't seen this yet? What the fuck?

Grape stomping accident

Again, if you haven't seen this one, where have you been? I'm not sure how seriously this lady was hurt, but I'm pretty sure she came through ok (though I suspect she's no longer a TV reporter).

Jon Stewart vs. Tucker Carlson

I won't hide the fact that I'm a fan of Jon Stewart. Regardless, while appearing on CNN's Crossfire in 2004, he says everything that needs to be said (including calling Carlson "a dick"). Crossfire was cancelled just months later. And now, years later, the Daily Show is still very popular, while Tucker has been reduced making guest appearances on various Fox News shows. Justice.

Jim Everett attacks Jim Rome

[User submitted] This is a true classic. Jim Rome has some real balls, I'll give him that. But I wish Everett had punched a hole through his stomach.