The Biggest Loser became a cultural phenomenon when it premiered in 2004 - but the show has been plagued with scandals and controversy as well. When NBC introduced the show, it followed a group of people deemed overweight who would compete in a 30-week competition. The goal was to lose as many pounds as possible to be crowned "the biggest loser," but with that came backlash. Some viewers questioned how contestants were allegedly pushed to lose weight through intense exercise and calorie-restricted diets.