Reality TV Must-Watch Shows and Where to Stream Them

If reality TV is your guilty pleasure, or if you prefer more dramatic and music-related content, we have a fantastic list of shows that you’ll enjoy. Here’s where you can stream some of the best reality series.

MTV’s longest-running series, “The Real World,” was a revolutionary concept when it premiered in 1992. Inspired by the 1973 TBS documentary “An American Family,” the show brought “the true story of seven strangers, picked to live in a loft and have their lives taped, to find out what happens when people stop being polite and start getting real.” The debut season was groundbreaking, featuring real people dealing with real issues such as racism, privilege, and sexuality. Over its 33 seasons, the series offered viewers a glimpse into the raw, unfiltered emotions and experiences of its cast. The final season, “The Real World: Atlanta,” aired on Facebook Watch in 2019.

Stream “The Real World” on Paramount+ (22 seasons).

In a different vein, “The Great British Baking Show,” known as “The Great British Bake Off” outside the US and Canada, takes the top spot among baking shows. This series shines by spotlighting amateur bakers competing for top honors. Each episode has the contestants face baking challenges judged by a discerning panel. The blend of chemistry among the judges, the light-hearted comedy, and the competitive spirit make this show truly unique. Over its 14 seasons, it has garnered a massive fan base, with the 15th season set to release in September 2024.

Stream “The Great British Baking Show” on Netflix (10 seasons).

The American version of “Survivor” has been airing since 2000 on CBS. Hosted by Jeff Probst, the show is a staple in the reality TV world, inspired by the Swedish series “Expedition Robinson.” Contestants are placed in isolated locations and must fend for themselves, providing food, shelter, and fire while also competing in physical and mental challenges. The competition is fierce, with participants being voted off by their peers until only a few remain. The final contestants then face a jury of ousted competitors who decide who wins the title of Sole Survivor and a $1 million prize. “Survivor” has completed 46 seasons to date.

Stream “Survivor” on Hulu (12 seasons).

TLC’s “90 Day Fiancé” is another juggernaut in the world of reality TV. The show’s premise revolves around couples using a K-1 Visa, allowing foreign fiancés of US citizens to enter the country with the requirement that they marry within 90 days. The series follows these couples as they navigate cultural differences, language barriers, and skeptical friends and family. Since its debut, “90 Day Fiancé” has spawned 20 successful spinoffs. The tenth season premiered in 2023, and over half of the 54 featured couples are still together.

Stream “90 Day Fiancé” on Max (10 seasons).

Lastly, “America’s Got Talent,” part of Simon Cowell’s Got Talent franchise, showcases a wide array of talents beyond just music, including dancing, magic, stunts, and comedy. Contestants audition in front of a panel of judges, aiming to advance to live episodes where they compete for a cash prize and a chance to perform on the Las Vegas Strip. Since its debut, “America’s Got Talent” has aired 19 seasons and generated four spinoffs.

Stream “America’s Got Talent” on Max (10 seasons).

These shows represent some of the best that reality TV has to offer, each providing a unique window into different aspects of human experience and talent.

Source: MTV, CBS, TLC, Netflix, Max