Hunter Television Show: A Deep Dive into Michael Jackson’s Beer Documentary

The “Hunter Television Show”, better known as The Beer Hunter, was a groundbreaking documentary series hosted by the renowned beer critic Michael Jackson (not the singer!). Premiering in 1990 on the Discovery Channel, this six-episode series explored the world of beer, showcasing diverse styles and brewing traditions to a global audience.

The Beer Hunter wasn’t just a show; it was Jackson’s passion project. He wrote the series and served as its affable host, guiding viewers through breweries and beer styles with his signature charm and expertise. Producer and director Bob Bee captured the journey, bringing Jackson’s insights to life on screen. Prior to the show, Jackson was already a respected figure in the beer world, having authored numerous books and articles. However, The Beer Hunter leveraged the power of television to reach a vastly larger audience, significantly contributing to the burgeoning beer renaissance of the late 20th century.

michael jackson beer hunter

The Impact and Legacy of The Beer Hunter

The show garnered significant pre-release buzz, with major publications like the Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times, and New York Times publishing glowing reviews. Critics praised Jackson’s approachable knowledge and the show’s unique premise, highlighting its potential to elevate beer appreciation to the same level as wine. The New York Times even lauded the series as an effort to challenge the unfair stereotype of beer drinkers as “slobs” compared to wine drinkers perceived as “nobs.”

Despite its critical acclaim and innovative approach, The Beer Hunter faced challenges. In 1990, many of the beer styles showcased, like lambic and kriek, were largely unknown to American audiences. The “Burgundies of Belgium” episode, for example, focused heavily on these niche styles, which were barely available in the US market at the time.

Ahead of Its Time

This disconnect between the show’s content and the prevailing beer culture of the time contributed to its limited run of six episodes. While the show’s impact on American beer consumption is difficult to quantify, it undoubtedly elevated Jackson’s profile, solidifying his status as a leading authority on beer. Jackson himself expressed surprise at the show’s broad appeal, noting that it resonated with a wider audience than he had anticipated.

The Beer Hunter, while short-lived, left an undeniable mark on the beer world. It introduced viewers to a vast spectrum of beer styles, paving the way for greater appreciation of craft beer and paving the way for future beer documentaries. Though ahead of its time, the series played a crucial role in shaping the modern beer landscape and solidifying Michael Jackson’s legacy as the original “Beer Hunter.”

The Beer Hunter’s Episodes and Focus

Each episode of The Beer Hunter delved into specific beer styles and regions, offering insights into the brewing process, history, and cultural significance of each beer. The series covered a range of topics, from Belgian lambics to American craft beers. This breadth of coverage provided viewers with a comprehensive understanding of the world of beer, going beyond simple tasting notes to explore the rich history and cultural context behind each brew.

While the show didn’t achieve mainstream commercial success, its influence on beer enthusiasts and the industry as a whole is undeniable. The Beer Hunter remains a significant milestone in the history of beer and television, demonstrating the power of media to educate and inspire a new generation of beer lovers.