Review: MythBusters – Season 1, Episode 1: Exploding Port-A-Potty
Introduction
The premiere episode of MythBusters, titled Exploding Port-A-Potty, first aired on January 23, 2003, and set the stage for what would become one of the most iconic science-based entertainment shows in television history. Hosted by Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, the series aimed to test urban legends, movie stunts, and various myths through hands-on experiments. This first episode immediately introduced viewers to the show’s signature mix of scientific inquiry, humor, and explosions, making it a memorable start.
Myth 1: Exploding Port-A-Potty
The Myth
The episode’s titular myth suggests that a portable toilet can explode if someone lights a match inside while methane gas has built up. This concept, which has circulated as an urban legend, raises the question: Can a port-a-potty really become a deadly bomb under the right conditions?
The Experiment
To test this myth, Adam and Jamie attempted to simulate the conditions necessary for an explosion. They first determined that human waste alone would not produce enough methane for a significant explosion. To increase the likelihood of combustion, they artificially introduced additional methane into the toilet. After several attempts using different ignition sources, including matches and electric sparks, they found that while methane is flammable, it did not produce a catastrophic explosion inside the enclosed space of the port-a-potty.
The Verdict
The myth was ultimately busted. While methane can ignite and burn, the conditions required for a full-blown explosion inside a portable toilet are highly unlikely in real-world scenarios.
Myth 2: Biscuit Bullet
The Myth
The second myth investigated in this episode was whether a can of refrigerated biscuits (such as Pillsbury dough) left in a hot car could explode with enough force to injure someone. This urban legend likely comes from real-life incidents where pressurized cans have popped unexpectedly.
The Experiment
To test this, the MythBusters team placed biscuit cans inside a heated environment, simulating the interior of a car on a hot day. They measured the pressure build-up over time and monitored whether the biscuit dough could be ejected forcefully enough to cause injury.
The Verdict
This myth was also busted. While the cans did pop open when exposed to heat, the resulting force was not strong enough to cause any real harm.
Strengths of the Episode
As the very first episode of MythBusters, Exploding Port-A-Potty did an excellent job of establishing the show’s format and tone. Adam Savage’s enthusiastic approach complemented Jamie Hyneman’s more reserved, methodical style, creating a compelling dynamic between the hosts. The episode balanced entertainment with education, showing viewers how myths could be tested using controlled experiments.
Additionally, the practical demonstrations—especially the attempt to create a large-scale explosion—were engaging and set the precedent for future episodes that would feature increasingly elaborate tests. The use of slow-motion footage and safety precautions also underscored the show’s commitment to both science and responsible experimentation.
Weaknesses of the Episode
As a first episode, Exploding Port-A-Potty had some rough edges. The show was still developing its signature style, and the pacing felt slower compared to later seasons. There was less build-up and spectacle compared to the large-scale myths that would become staples of MythBusters in later years.
Furthermore, this episode featured only two myths, whereas future episodes would typically test three or more, making this premiere feel a bit light on content. The production quality was also lower compared to later seasons, though this is understandable given that it was the series' debut.
Final Thoughts
Despite its minor flaws, Exploding Port-A-Potty remains a significant episode as it marked the beginning of MythBusters, a show that would go on to become a cultural phenomenon. The episode successfully introduced the key elements that made the series so beloved: scientific testing, humor, and dramatic experiments.
For fans of MythBusters, this episode is a must-watch—not necessarily for its most spectacular experiments, but because it represents the humble beginnings of a legendary series. While the format would be refined in later episodes, Exploding Port-A-Potty laid the foundation for what would become one of the most entertaining and educational science shows on television.
Final Rating: 7.5/10
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