TLC's Summer Slate Highlights Offbeat and Eye-Opening Programming (Exclusive Video)

TLC is about to kick off its new and returning series for the summer. And hot off the presses, The Hollywood Reporter has the first look at the cable network’s summer sizzle reel.

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Over the years, TLC’s brand has evolved to finding new ways of seeing the world around us. From the unexpected restorative qualities of a new wardrobe on What Not to Wear to exposing the madness of wedding day perfection on Say Yes to the Dress, and even the sheer drama and hilarity behind making your one-of-a-kind dessert on Cake Boss, their shows give us a peek behind-the-scenes on the people and services we may take for granted.

The network has also become synonymous (and sometimes comes under fire, cough, Toddlers & Tiaras) for featuring subcultures many of us had no idea existed or had access to before. The lifestyles portrayed on shows like Sister Wives, Extreme Couponing and My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding can seem quite unlike the lives we lead, but can also give us a whole new understanding of those who may have once seemed strange to us.

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Continuing in that vein, TLC’s summer season starting Thursday offers more new and returning series that offer unique perspectives on the people, cultures and services that surround us.

Watch THR’s first look video at TLC’s summer programming above for a taste of what's to come. Below, you’ll find the series descriptions and premiere dates.