Billy the Exterminator, formerly known as The Exterminators, is a reality TV show that aired on A&E and follows the professional life of William "Billy" Bretherton. Billy is an entomologist, pest control technician, and proprietor of Vexcon Animal and Pest Control based in Benton, Louisiana.

Show Concept and Features

The show illustrates the daily challenges Billy faces while dealing with various pests in Louisiana. Renowned for his distinctive Goth-like attire featuring black leather outfits, silver jewelry, steel studs, and spikes, Billy's unique style adds a memorable flair to his pest control endeavors.

Family Involvement

Another fascinating aspect of the show is the involvement of Billy's family members. His parents, "Big Bill" and Donnie, along with his brother, Ricky, frequently appear on the show, enhancing both the show's entertainment value and the family business dynamics.

History and Evolution

Pilgrim Films first contacted the Bretherton family in 2004 after selecting them from about 200 other companies, leading to their appearance on Discovery Channel's Dirty Jobs. The show originally aired as The Exterminators in its first season and was later renamed Billy the Exterminator.

Seasons and Locations

The series consists of seven seasons and a total of 100 episodes, including two specials. From its fourth season, the show expanded to feature various locations across the United States and worked alongside local exterminators and wildlife rescues.

• Season 1: February 4, 2009 - April 29, 2009
• Season 2: March 10, 2010 - July 21, 2010
• Season 3: October 5, 2010 - December 14, 2010
• Season 4: August 2, 2011 - September 13, 2011
• Season 5: February 11, 2012 - March 10, 2012
• Season 6: October 6, 2012 - December 22, 2012 (Billy left Vexcon and moved to Illinois, ending the series temporarily)
• Season 7: September 9, 2016 - November 25, 2016 (Rebranded as Billy Goes North in Canada)

Spin-offs and Related Media

Even after the original series ended, Billy maintained his presence in the media. Ricky Bretherton started a YouTube series called Vexcon The Exterminators in October 2015, in which Billy made appearances in its second season in 2020. Additionally, Billy’s son, Bryce, began featuring him and Ricky on a TikTok account starting in 2021.

Production and Key Characters

The show was primarily filmed in Benton, Louisiana, although scenes from various U.S. locations were included in later seasons. Each episode ran for about 30 minutes, including commercials, and was produced by September Films.

Main and Recurring Characters

• Billy Bretherton: The main star and professional exterminator
• Ricky Bretherton: Billy's brother
• William "Big Bill" Bretherton: Billy’s father
• Donnie Bretherton: Billy’s mother and dispatcher
• Mary Bretherton: Billy’s wife (left early in the series)

Recurring assistants include "Gator" Dave Wilson, a licensed gator hunter, "Danger" Dave Milliken, an animal control officer, "Killy" Kim Link, and "Doc" Jim Holmes.

Educational and Ethical Aspects

A unique feature of the show is its educational component. Episodes often include scientific explanations of pests and emphasize natural methods of control. Billy’s preference to relocate captured animals rather than exterminating them highlights an ethical approach to pest control. This aspect of the show not only entertains but also informs viewers about the importance of ecological balance and humane treatment of animals.

Availability and Reach

Seasons 1 through 5 have been released on DVD, and season 5 is also available via instant video. The show's broad appeal and the educational insights it provides have cemented its place in popular reality TV culture.

By blending pest control expertise with family drama and adventure, Billy the Exterminator offers a compelling look into the life of one of America’s most unique exterminators, making it a standout in reality television.