Strange occurrences, odd historical facts and unusual artistic and social activities are explored. Ripley's Believe It or Not! is the name of several documentary television series based on the newspaper feature. The first series aired on NBC from 1949 to 1950, and was hosted by Robert L. Ripley until his death. The series was revived again on ABC, running from 1982 to 1986, and was hosted primarily by Jack Palance.