Guide Note

The Simple Life is a reality show that chronicles the exploits of best friends Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie. Hilton and Richie were placed in everyday jobs, conflicting with their normally extravagant and privileged lifestyle.

Over five seasons, the women were camp counselors, lived as temporary wives in American families and served as corporate interns. The stars had their own obstacles off of the set. Both Richie and Hilton were separately arrested for driving under the influence.¹ Due to low ratings, Fox did not reorder the program at the end of the third season.² E! picked up the show for the last two seasons. It was ultimately canceled in 2007.²

Fast Facts

1. Network: E! and Fox
2. Number of Seasons: 5
3. First aired: December 2, 2003
4. Last aired: August 5, 2007
5. Starring: Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie
6. Networks: Fox (three seasons) and E! (two seasons)
7. Creators: Bunim-Murray Productions
8. Spinoff: Paris Hilton's My New BFF

• The Simple Life
• The Simple Life 2
• The Simple Life Interns
• The Simple Life 'Til Death Do Us Part
• The Simple Life Goes to Camp