TLC Traces Families in the Child Beauty Pageant Circuit with All New Docu-Series 'TODDLERS AND TIARAS'

In late January, TLC will premiere TODDLERS AND TIARAS, a captivating new series that goes behind-the-scenes of the child beauty pageant world, and profiles a number of young contestants from all different ages and backgrounds, as well as their fanatical parents.

"The appeal and success of Little Miss Sunshine illustrates that this competitive world really exists," explains Howard Lee, VP of Production for TLC. "These children and their parents pour so much energy into wanting to win - and it's fascinating to watch."

Each week, TODDLERS AND TIARAS takes viewers inside the world of youth pageantry to witness the demanding lifestyles of these pint-sized beauties. Every hour-long episode follows a different group of contestants, vying for the coveted crown. This compelling series showcases the traditional elements of child pageants, jam-packed with stage moms and dads, hair extensions, spray tanning, makeup and glitter. Moreover, this series also features extremely non-traditional and modern aspects of the pageant scene, from girls entering the competitive landscape with less makeup and a more natural look, to child beauty pageants featuring boys mixed into the competition.

Viewers also witness how the drama unfolds throughout these various pageants, with details such as overzealous mothers and fathers having meltdowns leading up to and during the pageants, and other behind-the-scenes mishaps. A certain father, who undoubtedly takes the pageant life to the extreme -- while sewing his daughter's gowns, diligently teaching her dance routines, and storming out when he is dissatisfied with the results of the competition -- truly demonstrates how intense this cultural phenomenon has become.