Inspired by an environmental essay, he created the biggest television success in the world and made billions of dollars
John De Mol, the creator of Big Brother and La Voz, revolutionized television with his innovative reality formats that have been adapted in over 70 countries.
John De Mol, a Dutch television producer, launched the reality show Big Brother in 1999, transforming global television programming. His original concept involved a year-long experiment of observing individuals confined in a 'golden cage', which over time evolved into the familiar format we see today, incorporating weekly eliminations. The debut of Big Brother on September 16, 1999, on the VerΓ³nica channel in the Netherlands marked the beginning of a new era in reality television, setting the stage for a wave of similar shows worldwide.
With Big Brother, De Mol not only created a cultural phenomenon but also paved the way for other successful formats like La Voz (The Voice), which has been adapted in more than 70 countries. His innovative ideas reshaped the entertainment landscape, challenging traditional programming and engaging audiences in ways never seen before. De Mol's vision of reality television allowed ordinary people to achieve celebrity status, forever changing the dynamics of fame and media consumption.
Despite his monumental success, De Mol has maintained a low profile, staying behind the scenes of his productions. Born on April 24, 1955, in The Hague, his influence on television is undeniable, as he has not only generated significant revenue through his shows but has also inspired a generation of content creators to explore the potential of reality formats. As the reality genre continues to evolve, De Mol's contributions remain a cornerstone of modern entertainment.