I don't care for the show, the only real draw is the cars not the drama.
What the show does do is this, its gets people interested in racing. I am sure there has been many car covers pulled off that haven't been touched in years just because this show rekindled some interest.
In the end I think the show is a positive for US the racers as it causes interest. NHRA could have handled this differently, and I am sure they are wishing they did.