Pickler & Ben

Pickler & Ben is a delightful daytime talk show that aired in syndication from 2017 to 2019, offering a perfect mix of light-hearted entertainment, humor, and heartwarming stories. Co-hosted by the charming country singer and American Idol 5 alumni, Kellie Pickler, and the vibrant New York Times bestselling author, Ben Aaron, the show is famed for its celebration of everyday people living extraordinary lives.

Set in Nashville, Tennessee, the program has a unique touch of southern hospitality, filling its viewers' afternoons with laughter, inspiration, and comfort. The hosts exhibit tremendous chemistry, their polar opposite personalities harmonizing magnificently on screen to enhance the show. While Pickler's down-to-earth, homegrown charm brings authenticity and warmth, Ben's quick wit and insightful quips add the right amount of urban fun.

Firmly grounded in its core values, Pickler & Ben dedicates each episode to highlighting real people leading inspiring lives. From home cooks with exceptional culinary skills to home improvement experts sharing clever DIY hacks, the show presents an array of guests whose extraordinary tales are sure to inspire. Pet lovers, gardening gurus, fashion enthusiasts, and more were frequently spotlighted to share their passion and knowledge.

The layout of Pickler & Ben does not follow the conventional single-guest type talk show format. Instead, it includes a flurry of various segments and features that cover a wide range of topics. From cooking demonstrations, makeovers, musical performance, celebrity interviews, to unique human-interest stories, the show offers a little bit of everything for everyone.

An instrumental aspect of the show is its promotion of kindness and humanity, typically showcasing stories of individuals performing exceptional acts of charity. This underlying message contributes to the uplifting feel of the series, resonating with viewers and inspiring positivity.

Celebrity guests were also a significant part of the show's dynamic. A-listers from music, television, film, and other entertainment mediums graced the stage frequently, engaging in entertaining dialogues with the hosts. The casual atmosphere allowed the celebs to let their guards down, resulting in candid, often hilarious conversations, sing-offs, cook-offs, and more.

Moreover, the program also proudly showcased the rich culture and talented artists of Nashville. Whether highlighting local musicians, food experts, or entrepreneurs, Pickler & Ben rightfully served as a vibrant tribute to Nashville's creative legacy.

The show's set was designed by the award-winning fashion powerhouse and Poison frontman Bret Michaels. The rustic farm kitchen-themed stage and city-loft styled living room set functioned as a perfect representation of the personalities of the show's hosts, Kellie's rural southern roots blending harmoniously with Ben's urban sophistication.

Catering to an audience with an appetite for an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink style talk show, Pickler & Ben managed to tastefully pull off an eclectic programming mix. The show, while fun and entertaining, also succeeded in maintaining a sense of warmth, embodying that euphoric sensation one feels when they reconnect with close friends after a long time. It never strayed from its core mission of being uplifting, relatable, and engaging.

Pickler & Ben delivered two seasons during its run, each season consisting of 175 episodes. The program’s success quickly took off, and by the third month of its first season, it was already being televised in 38 local television markets. The show also found success with multiple Emmy award nominations, reflecting its high quality and viewer appeal.

In summary, Pickler & Ben was a fresh and unique addition to the world of daytime television. With its eclectic blend of inspiring daily human stories, entertaining celebrity interactions, insightful lifestyle tips, and a hefty dose of down-to-earth charm from its hosts, it undeniably left a lasting legacy in its viewers' hearts. Although syndicated only from 2017 to 2019, it gave audiences joyful and uplifting moments to cherish and enjoy.