Television shows focusing on the search for Bigfoot have significantly influenced the public perception and research of Bigfoot. These shows often present themselves as scientific documentaries, but their primary goal is to entertain. They typically feature teams conducting various investigations, including analyzing evidence, recreating sightings, and employing technology like night-vision and thermal imaging cameras.

However, the impact of these shows on the field of cryptozoology and Bigfoot research has been mixed. On one hand, they have raised public awareness and interest in Bigfoot. On the other hand, they have been criticized for their lack of rigorous scientific methodology and failure to provide concrete evidence of Bigfoot's existence. The sensational nature and entertainment-focused approach of these programs have led to a perception of Bigfoot research as more of a pursuit of entertainment than a serious scientific endeavor.

This has arguably undermined the credibility of genuine research in the field, as these shows are often viewed as sources of entertainment rather than significant contributions to the scientific understanding of Bigfoot. The focus on ratings and viewer engagement, rather than scientific discovery, has further contributed to this perception.

While these television shows have popularized the concept of Bigfoot, they have also contributed to a more skeptical view of Bigfoot research within the scientific community and among serious enthusiasts. The blend of entertainment and pseudo-science presented in these shows has had a lasting impact on how Bigfoot is perceived in popular culture and within the research community.