Whatever finally comes to be considered the Golden Age of reality TV, the phenomenon's roots lie in earlier decades. Consider "Candid Camera," which got its giggles by ambush, or "Law and Order," which was among the first to examine real cops in action.

Winning big on the TV game shows of yesteryear usually meant a lifetime supply of something mundane, or a gaudy set of living room furniture (and maybe the occasional scandal). During the Golden Age of TV, there was one impressive six-figure winner and then another in the '80s. But now, shows are cranking out instant millionaires (not to mention a game show millionaire culture). Come on down and see who's struck game gold.