History of Dog the Bounty Hunter in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 30, 2024

"Dog the Bounty Hunter" was an American reality TV series that followed Duane "Dog" Chapman's career as a bounty hunter. The show, which aired on A&E, primarily took place in Hawaii and Colorado and documented Chapman's work apprehending fugitives.

1976: Chapman's Imprisonment and Inspiration

In 1976, Duane Chapman found himself incarcerated, an event that would later inspire his career path. During his time in prison, he exhibited good behavior and intervened in an escape attempt. This led to his parole after 18 months and sparked the idea of becoming a bounty hunter.

2006: Chapman and Beth's Wedding

In 2006, viewers witnessed a significant personal event as Dog the Bounty Hunter, Duane Chapman, married Beth Smith.

November 2, 2007: Production Halt and Controversy

Production of "Dog the Bounty Hunter" was temporarily paused by A&E on November 2, 2007, following the release of an audio tape containing Duane Chapman using a racial slur. The incident led to public outcry and a temporary suspension of the show.

2007: Release of "You Can Run But You Can't Hide"

Duane Chapman's autobiographical book, "You Can Run But You Can't Hide," hit the shelves in 2007. It offered readers a look into his life before and during his time as a bounty hunter.

February 19, 2008: A&E Announces Show's Return

Following an apology from Duane Chapman and a period of reflection, A&E announced on February 19, 2008, that "Dog the Bounty Hunter" would return to television.

June 25, 2008: Reruns and New Episodes Air

The return of "Dog the Bounty Hunter" on June 25, 2008, included reruns of previous episodes along with never-before-seen footage from Season 4.

April 21, 2009: Alleged Shooting During Filming

On April 21, 2009, while filming for Season 6 in Colorado Springs, Duane Chapman was allegedly shot at during an arrest attempt. The suspect was later apprehended.

May 15, 2009: Attempted Murder Charge Dropped

Due to inconsistencies in witness statements and lack of sufficient evidence, the attempted murder charge against the individual who allegedly shot at Duane Chapman was dropped on May 15, 2009.

December 16, 2009: "Easy Rider" Episode Airs

The episode "Easy Rider," which aired on December 16, 2009, provided viewers with a glimpse into the events surrounding the alleged shooting incident during filming.

2009: Publication of "Where Mercy Is Shown, Mercy Is Given"

In his second book, "Where Mercy Is Shown, Mercy Is Given," published in 2009, Duane Chapman delved into the repercussions of his arrest by federal marshals and the controversy surrounding his use of a racial slur.

March 2011: Lawsuit Filed Against Chapman

The individual involved in the alleged shooting incident filed a lawsuit against Duane Chapman and others in March 2011, claiming damages related to the incident.

September 2011: Bobby Brown Sues A&E

In September 2011, Bobby Brown, who made appearances in 30 episodes, filed a lawsuit against A&E and the show's production companies. He alleged that he was promised a larger role and compensation than what he received.

November 28, 2011: Trial Date Set

A trial date for the lawsuit filed against Duane Chapman and others was set for November 28, 2011.

2011: Leland and Duane Lee Sever Ties

In a significant family rift, Duane Chapman's sons, Leland and Duane Lee, ended their working relationship with their father and stepmother, severing ties with the family business.

January 2012: Brothers Confirm Departure

Leland and Duane Lee publicly confirmed their departure from the show in January 2012, solidifying their decision to move on from the family business.

February 2012: Brown and A&E Settle Lawsuit

Reaching an agreement in February 2012, Bobby Brown and A&E settled the lawsuit, keeping the terms of the settlement confidential.

March 21, 2012: Duane Lee and Leland Quit

The March 21, 2012, episode of "Dog the Bounty Hunter" featured a dramatic moment where Duane Lee and Leland announced their decision to quit the show, marking a turning point in their family and professional relationships.

May 21, 2012: A&E Cancels "Dog the Bounty Hunter"

On May 21, 2012, A&E made the decision to cancel the reality series "Dog the Bounty Hunter" after its eighth season.

September 16, 2013: "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Enters Syndication

Following its cancellation, "Dog the Bounty Hunter" began airing in syndication on September 16, 2013, allowing it to reach a wider audience.

August 2015: "Dog and Beth: On the Hunt" Ends

Dog and Beth Chapman's spin-off series, "Dog and Beth: On the Hunt," which aired on CMT, concluded in August 2015.

2015: Leland's New Ventures

By 2015, Leland Chapman had established his own bail bond company in Alabama and was leading Bounty Hunter Tactical Supply Co., demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and pursuit of new opportunities.

November 14, 2017: A&E Announces "Dog and Beth: Fight of Their Lives"

On November 14, 2017, A&E revealed their plans to air a two-hour special titled "Dog and Beth: Fight of Their Lives," focusing on Beth Chapman's battle with Stage 4 throat cancer.

June 26, 2019: Beth Chapman Passes Away

Beth Chapman tragically passed away at the age of 51 on June 26, 2019, after being placed in a medically induced coma following a battle with throat cancer.