I'd argue that the biggest difference between that kind of "dumb variety tv" and tiktok is that tiktok is essentially endless, and it suits the content to you. There's a big difference between the heads of a clip show deciding what gets shown on tv based off empathy and the occasional focus group test, and an inhuman algorithm which pays attention only to "engagement" - whether that engagement be positive or negative.

America's Funniest Home Videos was a 30-minute show that was on once a week. Now with a million streaming "channels" it's presumably available 24/7, except without Bob Saget commenting.

TV is very predictable and is moderated a lot more than online platforms where any random person can decide they want to make a mental illness or a dangerous challenge into a "cool" trend.

yeah it's engineered to be maximally engaging.