In a new study, medial researchers have discovered that watching Fear Factor can cause an elevated heart rate and that it could foster a panic attack in some people. Researchers suggest that people with a history of phobias or anxiety should stay away from Fear Factor. For these folks, reality TV may be simply too real, and it could be dangerous to watch.

• Read the whole Reuters story

The Rats from the first season premiere were raised in a laboratory, according to executive producer Matt Kunitz. He said, they "are as clean as rats can be." I assume that they were also tame as rats can be, too.

The celebrity edition of Fear Factor featured Kelly Preston (and husband, John Travolta), David Hasselhoff, Coolio, Brooke Burns, Joanie Laurer (of the WWF) and Donny Osmond. Each contestant was guaranteed $25,000 toward their charity, but Coolio came out the winner, and took home the grand prize for his charity. It was interesting to see live worms and scorpions poured over their faces.