How to join a studio audience in Los Angeles

09.09.2024 - 12:06 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 9, 2024 • 5 min read

Try as you might, it’s hard to resist the allure of Hollywood. Sure, you’ve told your family and friends (and even yourself) your trip to Los Angeles is all about the art museums and culinary scene and hiking. But admit it: you’re a little curious about Tinseltown, too. Psst… you’re not alone. Plus, there’s no shame in exploring an industry that’s not only one of the city’s largest, but one that has helped make LA what it is – television.

So lean into that curiosity and get a front row seat to the show, quite literally. LA is home to the sets of dozens of talk shows, game shows, competition programs and sitcoms and they want you to stop by. Seriously. Live TV tapings happen regularly in the City of Angels, and the production companies are always looking to fill their studio audiences. Not only is attending a taping a classic LA experience, it’s free (and in at least one case you might even walk away with “a brand-new car!”). 

Here’s how to live out your La La Land fantasies and be a member of a studio audience.  

Daytime talk shows, like The Jennifer Hudson Show and The Talk, are some of the best shows to try for since they air five times a week. For that same reason, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is another great one. If you’re not a night owl, don’t worry – though the late-night show airs at 11:35pm PT, it films much earlier, around 4:30pm.

Competition shows like American Idol, America’s Got Talent and Dancing with the Stars also offer tickets to the public, but have more limited annual schedules. As for game shows, The Price is Right is one of the most thrilling to attend because it’s a rare one where audience members can become contestants (just picture hearing your name and those three magical words, “Come on down!”). Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune have live studio audiences in LA, but contestants apply long in advance of filming. And finally, to witness scripted TV magic, head to the taping of a sitcom like Lopez vs Lopez, The Conners or Night Court.

Most shows kick off a new season in the fall, so that’s a good time to visit if you want to have your pick of shows. Early spring is another good time for tapings, especially if you’re an American Idol fan.

Snag free tickets online as far in advance as two months before filming. The shows mentioned above offer tickets through either 1iota or On Camera Audiences (just click on each show title). The talk shows usually list the guest for each day, so that may have sway in the date you choose.

One thing to note: admission isn’t guaranteed with a ticket. Most shows overbook, knowing not everyone will show up. But if everyone does show and you’re late, you may be turned away. So plan on arriving at least 30 minutes before the check-in deadline. 

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