The 50 Best Reality Shows On Now

Reality TV is still hugely popular around the world, with shows covering everything from competitions and lifestyles to social experiments. These series, found on both traditional networks and streaming services, offer a glimpse into different communities and how people interact. The genre has changed a lot over time, starting as simple observational documentaries and becoming more elaborate with strategic gameplay and professional competitions. This list showcases the most impactful and well-known reality programs that are currently being made or are airing new episodes.

‘The Traitors’ (2023–)

Alan Cumming hosts a reality competition set in a Scottish castle where players try to figure out who among them are secretly ‘Traitors.’ Some contestants are ‘Faithful’ and trying to win a cash prize, while the Traitors work in secret to eliminate the Faithful. The Faithful must uncover and vote out all the Traitors before they’re all eliminated. Based on the Dutch show ‘De Verraders,’ the series has been praised for its suspenseful atmosphere and clever gameplay, quickly becoming a popular hit on streaming services.

‘Survivor’ (2000–)

This groundbreaking show drops a group of strangers in a wilderness setting where they must construct their own shelter and find their own food. Contestants face both physical and mental challenges to win prizes and avoid being eliminated at the Tribal Council. Success depends on forming alliances, but players must remember that those they vote out could ultimately decide who wins. Hosted by Jeff Probst for over 40 seasons – including a recent shift to a 26-day game – the show continues to be a top performer for CBS and has heavily influenced the reality TV genre.

‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ (2009–)

RuPaul guides and judges aspiring drag queens as they compete to become the next big star. Throughout the competition, contestants face challenges that test their skills in areas like acting, fashion, comedy, and music. Each week, the two lowest-performing queens face off in a dramatic lip-sync battle, with one being eliminated. The show has become a global phenomenon, spawning versions in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia, and has won many Emmy Awards for its quality and influence on popular culture.

‘The Amazing Race’ (2001–)

The Amazing Race sends teams of two on an exciting global adventure. They travel to different countries, complete challenges based on local cultures, and race to reach designated pit stops. Teams must carefully manage their money and depend on local transportation and the kindness of strangers to stay in the competition. Over the years, the show has explored nearly every continent and is known for its fast-paced editing and the way it teaches viewers about different cultures and places. Phil Keoghan has been the host since the very beginning.

‘Top Chef’ (2006–)

Top chefs go head-to-head in exciting cooking competitions, judged by leading food professionals. Each show usually includes a fast-paced ‘Quickfire Challenge’ and a more demanding ‘Main Elimination Challenge’ that tests their skills with complicated dishes or big events. Judges look for excellent cooking technique, delicious flavors, and original ideas, all while the chefs work under a lot of pressure. The show has been a springboard for many now-famous restaurant owners and food experts, and it continues to be a popular and highly respected program on Bravo.

‘Love Is Blind’ (2020–)

This reality show follows singles attempting to find marriage without ever laying eyes on each other. They communicate through separate pods, relying on conversation to build a connection. If a couple gets engaged, they then meet in person and move in together to see if their bond holds up in everyday life. The series ends with a wedding decision: will they commit to marriage, or go their separate ways? The show has generated a lot of conversation about how important physical attraction is compared to emotional connection.

‘Alone’ (2015–)

As a huge fan of survival shows, I’m completely hooked on this one. Ten people are just dropped into the wilderness, totally alone, with only ten pieces of gear and a camera. They have to fend for themselves – hunt, build shelter, the whole nine yards – and the last one still going strong wins a big cash prize. What really sets it apart, though, is that the participants film everything themselves. It’s not about manufactured drama; you get a really raw, honest look at how isolation messes with your head. Honestly, it’s considered one of the most challenging and real survival competitions out there.

‘The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City’ (2020–)

This ‘Real Housewives’ series showcases the lives of women in and around Salt Lake City, Utah, both at home and at work. It delves into the area’s distinct culture, including the impact of the Mormon church and its social circles. The show follows the cast as they navigate parties, businesses, and even major legal issues. It gained notoriety because some of the women were involved in real-life court cases, and is known for its dramatic clashes and shocking season endings.

‘Below Deck’ (2013–)

This show follows the lives of the crew working and living on a large luxury yacht during charter season. Each episode highlights the challenges they face serving demanding, wealthy guests, as well as the drama within their own relationships and the ship’s internal dynamics. They constantly deal with boat malfunctions, unpredictable weather, and the intense pressures of high-end hospitality. The show’s popularity spawned several spin-offs, like ‘Below Deck Mediterranean’ and ‘Below Deck Sailing Yacht’, offering a glimpse into the fast-paced, demanding, and often glamorous world of yachting professionals.

‘Big Brother’ (2000–)

Big Brother features a group of people, called HouseGuests, who live together in a specially designed house, constantly filmed and cut off from the outside world. Each week, they compete to become Head of Household, giving them the power to nominate two fellow HouseGuests for eviction. Fans can watch everything happening through live internet feeds. The American version, hosted by Julie Chen Moonves, usually airs in the summer. The game is all about forming alliances, using social skills to outwit others, and proving physical strength.

‘Queer Eye’ (2018–)

This show is a fresh take on the original series from 2003. A new team of five experts, known as the “Fab Five,” gives people complete lifestyle overhauls, nominated by those who care about them. Each expert focuses on a different area – like fashion, food, culture, home design, and grooming. What makes this show special is its focus on helping people grow emotionally and accept themselves, not just change how they look. The Fab Five travel across the US and around the world, working with people from all walks of life. It’s known for being a feel-good show with a positive message.

’90 Day Fiancé’ (2014–)

This reality series follows international couples who are using a special visa – the K-1 visa – to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States. They have just 90 days to get married, or the visa holder must return home. The show highlights the difficulties these couples face, including different cultures, language issues, and doubts from family. It’s become a very popular franchise with many related shows, and continues to be a hit for TLC and a well-known part of pop culture today.

‘Shark Tank’ (2009–)

On the show, hopeful business owners present their ideas to a group of experienced investors – often called “Sharks” – hoping to get funding. The Sharks carefully examine the products, business plans, and company worth before deciding if they’ll invest. Negotiations can get intense, with multiple investors sometimes competing to fund the same business. The show has showcased many different products, and some have even become well-known brands. It offers a valuable look into how venture capital works and how businesses grow.

‘MasterChef’ (2010–)

Gordon Ramsay is on the hunt for America’s best amateur cook, with help from a team of well-known food experts. Home cooks compete in challenges like cooking with surprise ingredients and running a restaurant with their teammates. Winners get an edge in the competition, while those who struggle face elimination. The show focuses on helping passionate home cooks develop the skills to become professional chefs, and it’s been a popular summer show on Fox for more than ten years.

‘The Voice’ (2011–)

As a huge fan of music shows, I’m always drawn to this singing competition. What I love most is how it initially focuses purely on voice – those ‘blind auditions’ are brilliant! The coaches can’t see the singers, so they really have to listen, and it’s so exciting when a coach turns their chair! From there, it moves into battle rounds and knockouts, building up to the live performances. And it’s fantastic to see well-known artists acting as coaches and really mentoring the contestants. They always have a great lineup of stars, and the show is known for being really positive and encouraging – it’s just a feel-good competition.

‘The Great British Bake Off’ (2010–)

The Great British Baking Show features amateur bakers competing for the title of the UK’s best. Each week, they face three challenges: a signature bake, a difficult technical recipe, and an elaborate showstopper. Known for its friendly vibe, funny hosts, and the coveted “Star Baker” prize, the show stands out from many reality competitions by prioritizing the love of baking over winning a cash prize. It’s become incredibly popular worldwide and is often credited with inspiring more people to bake at home.

‘Vanderpump Rules’ (2013–)

Starting as a side project to ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,’ this show follows the employees at Lisa Vanderpump’s restaurants in West Hollywood. It captures the complicated relationships, love lives, and career goals of the cast. In 2023, the show exploded in popularity thanks to a huge cheating scandal called “Scandoval.” It’s become a prime example of a dramatic reality TV show, and remains one of Bravo’s most popular and impactful series.

‘Selling Sunset’ (2019–)

I’m totally hooked on this Netflix show! It follows the lives of real estate agents at The Oppenheim Group in LA, and it’s fascinating to see the incredible homes they sell in areas like Hollywood Hills and the Sunset Strip. Honestly, though, it’s not just about the houses – a lot of the drama comes from the relationships and conflicts between the agents themselves. The show looks amazing, really polished and glamorous, and it’s been so popular they’ve even started making versions set in other cities!

‘Love Island’ (2015–)

I’m totally hooked on Love Island! Basically, a bunch of singles live together in this amazing villa, but they’re filmed 24/7. To stay in the villa, you have to be in a couple – it doesn’t even have to be romantic, just someone to pair up with! It’s always interesting because new people keep showing up, stirring things up and testing everyone’s connections. And the best part? We, the viewers, get to decide who stays and who goes! It’s a huge deal in the UK, everyone watches it all summer.

‘The Circle’ (2020–)

This competition takes place entirely online, with contestants living in separate apartments but interacting only through a special app. Players can either be themselves or create fake profiles to mislead others. They constantly rate each other, and those with the highest ratings become ‘Influencers’ who can eliminate other players. The game examines how people portray themselves online and the impact of social media influence. The winner receives a large cash prize based on how popular they become and how well they play the social game.

‘Too Hot to Handle’ (2020–)

A group of attractive singles arrive at a beautiful resort expecting a typical dating show, but they quickly learn there’s a catch. A virtual assistant named Lana tells them they must avoid all physical contact if they want to win a big cash prize. Every time someone breaks the rules, the prize money decreases. The show is designed to help contestants build strong emotional connections instead of focusing on physical attraction, and it’s become a hugely popular series on Netflix.

‘Married at First Sight’ (2014–)

Inspired by a Danish television show, this series follows people who trust a team of experts to find them a spouse – someone they meet for the very first time at their wedding! These couples then go on a honeymoon and live together for a few weeks. Finally, they reach “Decision Day,” where they decide if they want to stay married or get divorced. The show looks at the challenges and feelings involved in modern arranged marriages and has been running for many seasons, with a number of couples finding lasting love.

‘Physical: 100’ (2023–)

This South Korean competition pits 100 incredibly fit people against each other to find the one with the ultimate physique. Contestants range from Olympic athletes and bodybuilders to soldiers and fitness experts. They face a series of tough individual and team challenges that push their strength, stamina, speed, and mental fortitude to the limit. The show became a global hit on Netflix thanks to its high-energy competition and emphasis on fair play. It’s filmed in a simple, streamlined style that keeps the focus squarely on the athletes’ incredible physical abilities.

‘Single’s Inferno’ (2021–)

Single men and women in South Korea are dropped on a remote island with few comforts, and the only way to leave is to find a romantic match. Once coupled up, they get to spend a night in a luxurious hotel where they finally reveal their ages and jobs – information hidden while on the island. The show centers on the developing relationships and how the group interacts, and it’s become popular worldwide thanks to its high production quality and appealing cast.

‘The Masked Singer’ (2019–)

A popular singing competition features famous people disguised in full costumes and masks, keeping their identities secret from the audience and judges. Throughout the show, performers are judged on their voices and hints about who they are. Each week, one singer is unmasked and revealed to the public. Originally from South Korea, the show has included stars from all walks of life – actors, athletes, and musicians – and is known for being visually exciting and enjoyable for the whole family.

‘American Idol’ (2002–)

This popular talent show seeks out the next big singing star by holding auditions across the country. Those who succeed in the early rounds perform for celebrity judges and a live crowd. Viewers then vote by phone and online to decide who wins. The show has helped launch the careers of artists like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. After a short break following its original run on Fox, the series returned successfully on ABC.

‘Dancing with the Stars’ (2005–)

A popular show teams celebrities with professional dancers to compete by performing choreographed dances each week. Expert judges score the performances, and viewers vote for their favorites. The combination of scores and votes decides which couple gets eliminated. The show features a diverse cast, including athletes, reality TV personalities, and actors, and is known for its elaborate sets, costumes, and live music.

‘The Bachelor’ (2002–)

The show features a single man dating a group of women, with the expectation he’ll choose one to be his wife. Throughout the season, he goes on dates – both with the whole group and individually – to get to know them. Each week, he eliminates contestants at a ‘rose ceremony,’ sending those who don’t receive a rose home. The season usually ends with a proposal in a beautiful, faraway place. It’s a long-running, popular reality show on ABC and has led to several successful spin-off series.

‘The Bachelorette’ (2003–)

This show follows a similar premise to ‘The Bachelor’, centering on a woman who dates several men at the same time. The lead is often a popular contestant from a past season of ‘The Bachelor’. The series captures all the ups and downs of dating multiple people while trying to find a potential husband. It’s been recognized for empowering women to take the lead in their own love lives. Expect plenty of drama and exciting trips to different countries, just like the original show.

‘Catfish: The TV Show’ (2012–)

This series, inspired by the 2010 documentary, follows people who’ve fallen in love online but haven’t met in person. Host Nev Schulman and his team investigate these online relationships to see if the people are who they say they are. The show often uncovers instances of ‘catfishing’ – when someone creates a fake online identity to trick others. Each episode usually builds to a dramatic first meeting. It looks at the challenges of relationships in the digital world and why people might deceive others online.

‘Naked and Afraid’ (2013–)

Each episode of this show drops a man and a woman, who’ve never met, into the wilderness with nothing but the clothes on their backs and one survival tool. They have 21 days to survive, finding their own food, water, and shelter while facing tough conditions and wild animals. The show judges how well they do using a ‘Primitive Survival Rating,’ and it’s become a long-running, popular hit for the Discovery Channel.

‘Project Runway’ (2004–)

Budding fashion designers battle it out for the opportunity to present their designs at New York Fashion Week and win a prize that could kickstart their careers. Each week, they face a new challenge: creating an original outfit with a set theme, limited budget, and tight deadline. A panel of fashion experts judges their creations on a runway. The show is famous for its creative challenges – often involving unusual materials – and the intense competition among the designers. Despite changes in networks and contestants over the years, it remains a popular and influential program.

‘Hell’s Kitchen’ (2005–)

Gordon Ramsay’s show throws hopeful chefs into a tough, real-restaurant setting. They’re split into teams and have to cook for paying customers while Ramsay closely watches and critiques their work. Kitchen errors often result in harsh criticism and immediate removal from service. The chef who ultimately succeeds usually wins a head chef position at one of Ramsay’s top restaurants. The show is well-known for its fast-paced, stressful environment and Ramsay’s incredibly high expectations.

‘The Kardashians’ (2022–)

This Hulu series picks up where ‘Keeping Up with the Kardashians’ left off, continuing to follow the lives of Kris, Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, Kendall, and Kylie. The show gives viewers a look at how they balance running their businesses with their personal lives, and it’s filmed in a more documentary-style format than their previous show. From events like the Met Gala to private family moments, the series continues to generate buzz on social media and in the news.

‘Pawn Stars’ (2009–)

Filmed at the famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, this show follows the Harrison family as they negotiate the buying and selling of interesting items brought in by customers. People come to the shop with historical objects, collectibles, and memorabilia hoping to sell or pawn them. Experts are frequently brought in to assess the items and share their history, making the show both entertaining and informative. The interactions between the shop’s staff also add a humorous touch.

‘Forged in Fire’ (2015–)

Skilled bladesmiths battle it out to rebuild famous swords and weapons from the past. Each episode features multiple challenges where they forge blades from scratch against the clock. A panel of judges then rigorously tests the finished weapons for how well they hold an edge, how strong they are, and how accurately they reflect the original designs. The show highlights both the incredible technique and artistic talent needed in traditional blacksmithing, and has become popular for being both educational and visually stunning.

‘1000-lb Sisters’ (2020–)

This TV series follows Amy and Tammy Slaton, two sisters working to lose weight and improve their health. The show gives an honest look at the challenges they face with everyday life, health problems, and getting ready for weight loss surgery. It also shows how they interact with their family and celebrates their accomplishments. Before becoming a TV show, Amy and Tammy first gained attention on YouTube. The series is known for being both funny and realistic about the difficulties of living with extreme obesity.

‘My 600-lb Life’ (2012–)

As a bit of a documentary buff, I recently checked out this series, and it’s pretty intense. Each episode follows someone who weighs over 600 pounds for an entire year. These individuals travel to Houston to see Dr. Nowzaradan, a surgeon who specializes in helping people in really difficult situations with weight loss. The show really gets into the tough diets and exercise plans they have to stick to just to be considered for surgery. But it’s not just about the physical side – it also shows the emotional and mental struggles of dealing with food addiction, and the serious health problems that come with extreme obesity. It’s a really raw and honest look at a very difficult journey.

‘Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test’ (2023–)

Celebrities are put through a tough training program run by experienced Special Forces veterans. They face incredibly demanding physical and mental tests inspired by real military training. Unlike typical competition shows, there are no judges or eliminations – participants either quit when they can’t go on, or are removed due to medical concerns. The show exposes what these celebrities are really like when stripped of their usual fame and comfort. It’s known for being intensely challenging and for exploring the psychological limits of its contestants.

‘House Hunters’ (1999–)

This popular series follows people, couples, or families as they house hunt with the guidance of a real estate agent. Each episode showcases three different properties, and the buyers must choose the one that best suits their lifestyle and finances. The show covers a wide range of housing markets both in the US and around the world, and gives viewers a glimpse into current housing trends and what it takes to buy a home. It’s a long-running favorite on HGTV, with thousands of episodes produced.

‘Property Brothers’ (2011–)

I absolutely love watching Drew and Jonathan Scott! They help people find and fix up houses, and it’s so satisfying to see the transformations. Drew has a great eye for finding houses with potential, and his brother Jonathan is amazing at actually doing the work and making those dreams a reality. What’s really cool is they show you what the house could look like with computer graphics before they even start, so you can see the vision. Every episode is a rollercoaster – you see all the challenges and successes they have staying within budget. They’ve become total stars in the home improvement world, and honestly, they deserve it!

‘Expedition Unknown’ (2015–)

As a total movie and TV buff, let me tell you about this show I really dig. It follows this guy, Josh Gates, who basically gets to travel the world investigating all these incredible legends and unsolved mysteries. Each episode zeroes in on something specific – lost cities, hidden treasure, weird historical happenings… you name it. He doesn’t just show up though; he talks to the people who actually live there, works with archaeologists, even goes diving! It’s a cool mix of travel show, history lesson, and pure adventure. Plus, it’s just fun to watch – Josh has a really engaging way of telling these stories, and the whole vibe is pretty lighthearted.

‘Ghost Adventures’ (2008–)

Zak Bagans and his team explore famously haunted places, hoping to find proof of life after death. They start by talking to people who’ve experienced strange things and researching the location’s history. Then, they spend the night locked inside, using tools like recorders and infrared cameras to try and capture any ghostly activity. The show is known for being intense and the team’s bold attempts to communicate with spirits. It’s been a popular choice for fans of the paranormal for more than ten years.

‘The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On’ (2022–)

Netflix’s “Ultimatum” is a reality show where couples who are considering marriage face a challenge: one partner issues an ultimatum, and they each try living with someone else from a different couple for a limited time. After this trial period, they return to their original partners to decide whether to get engaged or end the relationship. The show dives into the difficulties of making a lifelong commitment and how outside influences can affect a couple, and it’s known for being full of arguments and emotional moments.

‘Selling the OC’ (2022–)

Following the success of ‘Selling Sunset’, this new series showcases real estate agents at The Oppenheim Group’s Newport Beach office. Set in Orange County, California, the show features both men and women competing in the luxury real estate market. Like its predecessor, it combines stunning property tours of multi-million dollar homes with dramatic office conflicts. The series has quickly become popular on Netflix thanks to its distinctive cast and beautiful coastal setting.

‘Bar Rescue’ (2011–)

Jon Taffer, a nightlife expert, visits bars across America that are facing difficulties. He secretly observes the problems before meeting with the owners and staff to address them. His approach involves completely overhauling the bar – from physical improvements and employee training to new menus. Taffer is known for his direct and tough management style. The show offers a behind-the-scenes look at the financial and logistical hurdles of running a bar or restaurant.

‘Kitchen Nightmares’ (2007–)

Chef Gordon Ramsay is back with a show where he helps struggling restaurants turn things around. He spends a week working with the staff to pinpoint problems with the food, atmosphere, and how the business is run. Often, he discovers serious cleanliness issues and low-quality cooking that need to be fixed right away. The show ends with a big relaunch night where the restaurant shows off its new improvements to customers. It’s a well-known example of the reality TV genre focused on fixing businesses.

‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ (2010–)

The show offers a glimpse into the lives of wealthy women in Beverly Hills and the surrounding areas. Featuring actresses, socialites, and business owners, it showcases a world of lavish parties and high-end living. Known for its over-the-top glamour and dramatic conflicts, the series has documented major life moments like divorces, legal battles, and changing family dynamics. It remains a hugely popular and talked-about installment in the ‘Real Housewives’ franchise.

‘Sister Wives’ (2010–)

The TLC series “Sister Wives” follows the Brown family – Kody Brown and his four wives – and their experiences with polygamy. The show details the difficulties and relationships within a plural marriage, as well as the judgment they face from society. Lately, the series has centered on the dissolving of the marriage, with three wives choosing to leave. Over more than ten years, it offers a fascinating look at an unconventional family and how it has changed, and has recently become very popular again due to all the drama.

‘Gold Rush’ (2010–)

As a total gold rush fanatic, I’m hooked on this series! It follows a bunch of family-owned mining operations up in the Klondike – Dawson City, Yukon, to be exact. These guys are really putting it all on the line trying to strike gold, and it’s not easy. They’re constantly battling broken equipment, crazy weather, and the huge pressure to hit their gold targets. What I really love is seeing just how much money these miners risk and the sheer determination it takes to make it in this business. It’s become a massive hit for Discovery, and it’s spawned a bunch of other shows too. Every season is basically a race to see which crew can haul the most gold out of the ground – it’s seriously addictive!

Share your favorite reality television moments and series in the comments.

2026-02-12 01:51