The Ultimate Ranking: Top 20 Reality Shows of All Time

Often referred to as the guilty pleasure genre of television, reality TV provides viewers with an opportunity to escape reality. These shows are purely for entertainment purposes and do not require the same level of commitment as other types of shows. However, this does not mean that viewers are not engaged; they often find themselves rooting for their favorite contestants or even trying to emulate the lifestyles of reality stars.

Reality TV audiences have proven to be discerning judges, determining which shows will have staying power. Some shows have even spawned spinoffs or additional series. Whether it's a survival challenge, a competition, or a glimpse into a glamorous lifestyle, there is a reality TV series to suit every taste. Whether driven by their entertainment value, cultural impact, or a combination of factors, the following list represents the best reality series of all time.

Updated on October 23, 2023, by Jom Elauria:

Reality TV continues to captivate viewers and remains a guilty pleasure that keeps them glued to their screens. Even after 45 seasons, Survivor and 25 seasons of Big Brother still prove their enduring appeal. The allure of real people in extraordinary situations, the thrilling drama, hilarious moments, and unpredictable twists will always attract an audience. In the ever-evolving world of television, reality shows will continue to be a staple in the entertainment choices of viewers.

20. 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' (2007 - 2021)

Image Via E!

The reality TV show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, has given rise to one of the most influential celebrity families of the 21st century - the Kardashian-Jenner clan. With a blend of family drama, fashionable ventures, and extravagant vacations, the show offers viewers a captivating journey into the lives of the Kardashians and Jenners.

Not only did the show propel the family to international fame, but it also ignited a cultural phenomenon. The unfiltered portrayal of the Kardashians' personal struggles and accomplishments kept audiences engrossed. Although Keeping Up with the Kardashians concluded in 2021, fans can continue following the famous clan in their new Hulu TV show appropriately named The Kardashians.

Watch on Peacock

19. 'Fear Factor' (2001 - 2018)

Image via NBC

For those seeking to test their boundaries, they embraced the opportunity to participate in Fear Factor, a reality TV series that first aired in 2001. Fear Factor subjected individuals to an adrenaline-inducing blend of courageous feats, unsettling tasks involving insects and critters, and highly repulsive tests.

This thrilling show not only elicited racing hearts, but it also received numerous awards, including an Emmy for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program. By capturing the viewers' intrigue for the extreme and their longing to witness individuals conquer their deepest fears, Fear Factor possessed an unquestionable and long-lasting allure.

Stream on Hulu.

18. 'Love Island' (2015 - )

Image via ITV2

Love Island showcases the highs and lows of British reality TV romance. The concept is straightforward: a group of unforgettable single islanders are whisked away to a sunny villa. While navigating love, competition, and drama, they are tasked with coupling up and sometimes recoupling. The ultimate goal is to form strong connections, navigate recoupling ceremonies, and avoid elimination in order to win the coveted prize. This dating show has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its unique blend of relationship drama and strategic gameplay. Love Island has garnered a devoted fanbase thanks to its memorable catchphrases and thrilling gossip.

Watch on Hulu

17. 'America's Next Top Model' (2003 - 2018)

America's Next Top Model, hosted by Tyra Banks, is an intense high-fashion modeling competition show. This captivating series takes viewers on a thrilling journey as aspiring models face a multitude of challenges, participate in breathtaking photoshoots, and strut their stuff on the glamorous runway. To emerge victorious, contestants must demonstrate to Tyra and the discerning judges that they possess both the striking looks and the captivating personality necessary to thrive in the cutthroat world of the modeling industry.

America's Next Top Model has become a popular reality TV show due to its emphasis on promoting body positivity and highlighting diversity within the modeling industry. Despite the occasional controversial challenges and the unforgettable makeover episodes, the iconic "smizing" lessons from Tyra Banks and the intense rivalries among contestants make it an incredibly captivating watch. Catch all the excitement on Hulu.

16. 'Taxicab Confessions' (1995 - 2006)

Taxicab Confessions was an unforgettable reality TV show that provided viewers with an authentic glimpse into the lives of ordinary individuals. Through the use of discreet cameras and microphones, this groundbreaking series showcased unscripted conversations between passengers and their taxi drivers, capturing profound and emotional moments.

As a trailblazer in its genre, Taxicab Confessions revolutionized reality-based storytelling. By illuminating personal narratives, heartfelt confessions, and extraordinary encounters from individuals from various backgrounds, the show enabled viewers to forge a profound connection with the diversity of the human experience.

15. 'The Great British Bake Off' (2010 - )

Image via Netflix

The Great British Bake Off is a reality series that has a unique way of making viewers crave sweets. This competition, also known as The Great British Baking Show on Netflix, showcases the talents of 12 amateur bakers as they undertake a series of weekly challenges in order to win the title of the UK's Best Amateur Baker.

With esteemed judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, who are experts in both culinary and artisan baking, the bakers are faced with various tests. They start with a signature bake, where they demonstrate their baking skills, followed by a technical bake where they all work with the same recipe. Lastly, they showcase their creativity and skills in the showstopper bake, where they create elaborate and captivating displays.

Watch on Netflix

14. '90 Day Fiancé' (2014 - )

Image via TLC

Exploring the boundaries of love, 90 Day Fiancé showcases couples who undertake the 90-day engagement visa procedure in the United States. Frequently encountering each other online or during remarkable international getaways, an American individual and their foreign partner become engaged and initiate the journey of reuniting in the United States with the aspiration of tying the knot after a three-month period.

Throughout the nine seasons, the outcomes for the 90 Day couples vary greatly. Some continue to have complicated relationships, while others get married, break up, or stay together after their weddings. The immensely popular show, 90 Day Fiancé, has also spawned numerous spin-offs including 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days, 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?, and 90 Day Fiancé: The Single Life.

Stream on TLC GO.

13. 'Shark Tank' (2009 - )

Shark Tank, a highly acclaimed reality TV show, may appear as a nature series to those unfamiliar with the genre. However, for devoted fans of reality television, it is considered one of the greatest shows of all time. This award-winning series features aspiring entrepreneurs who passionately present their investment opportunities to a panel of exceptionally wealthy and successful investors, including Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran. Over the seasons, the composition of these savvy investors rotates, as guest "Sharks" also make appearances. Notably, the show has propelled the success of various brands, such as Bombas and Scrub Daddy, by facilitating offers from investors showcased on the popular ABC series.

Watch on Hulu

12. The 'Real Housewives' Franchise (2006 - )

Bravo

The Real Housewives of Orange County, which began in Orange County, California, grew into a national sensation in the realm of reality TV. Spanning from 2006 to 2022, the show showcased the everyday lives and tumultuous moments of five affluent housewives and their families residing in the most prosperous planned communities in the United States.

Watch the bold and iconic personas of numerous famous Real Housewives stars emerge from major cities such as New York City, Atlanta, New Jersey, Beverly Hills, and more. These women are fierce and opinionated, delivering dramatic reality entertainment to audiences worldwide. Stream on Peacock.

11. 'Hell's Kitchen' (2005 - )

Image via Granada Entertainment/Fox

Renowned chef Gordon Ramsay has been a presence on reality TV for many years, not holding back in both his cooking techniques and his words. Hell's Kitchen showcases aspiring chefs who compete in challenging culinary tasks, progressively eliminating numerous contestants until only one emerges victorious.

Hell's Kitchen, which provides inspiration for Ramsay's restaurant empire, has captivated viewers for decades with its explosive and unfiltered drama, specifically tailored for reality entertainment. The American edition of the show premiered on Fox and is currently in its 21st season, spanning from late 2022 to early 2023.

Watch on Hulu

10. 'The Voice' (2011 - )

Image via Mark Burnett Productions/NBC.

Combining the elements of both singing and competition, The Voice showcases the talents of four renowned musicians as they search for the finest vocalists across the country. Through a unique blind audition process, each coach listens to the singing voice without being influenced by appearance and decides whether to turn their chair solely based on the sound. In the event of multiple chairs turning, the aspiring contestant has the privilege to select which esteemed artist will become their mentor.

Witness the extraordinary talent of music sensations such as Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Alicia Keys, Miley Cyrus, and many others as they gracefully occupy the iconic chairs across multiple seasons. "The Voice" is an Emmy-award-winning competition series that has revolutionized the realm of singing competitions.

Tune in exclusively on Peacock.

9. 'Top Chef' (2006 - )

Image via David Moir/Bravo

This long-standing culinary competition series has been on the air for two decades and is considered a staple in the world of reality TV. With the goal of becoming the Top Chef, 15 talented aspiring chefs showcase their skills by preparing delectable and irresistible dishes. Each week, contestants (and sometimes more than one) are eliminated, leaving only the best of the best to compete for the ultimate title. A panel of renowned food and wine experts serve as judges, reviewing both the contestants and their creations.

Padma Lakshmi has been the host of Top Chef for nearly the entire duration of the series, while Tom Colicchio has remained a consistent presence as the head judge since the very beginning. This successful cooking competition has spawned various spin-offs, including Top Chef Jr. and Top Chef Masters.

Watch on Peacock

8. 'The Real World' (1992 - )

MTV's enduring series, The Real World, holds the distinction of being one of the longest-running reality shows. By capturing the essence of various personalities, this show documents the 24/7 journey of seven or eight young adults as they settle into a temporary residence in a new city. In a similar vein to the influential shows Beverly Hills, 90210 and Melrose Place, The Real World served as a catalyst for other popular MTV series such as The Challenge, which continues to captivate audiences to this day.

The Real World was a groundbreaking MTV series that aired from 1992 to 2017. In 2019, it made a comeback on Facebook Watch and is now in the process of being developed for Paramount+. This iconic show was celebrated for its portrayal of roommates navigating diverse beliefs and providing an honest depiction of the young adult experience. Catch it on Paramount+.

7. 'Project Runway' (2004 - )

Image via Bravo

This series revolutionized reality TV by elevating fashion to a prominent position. It propelled fashion designers such as Christian Siriano and Leanne Marshall into successful careers. Project Runway showcases talented amateur stylists and designers who compete in a series of challenges, pushing their creativity to create breathtaking designs. Each week, a panel of judges eliminates one designer.

Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Tim Gunn, and Michael Kors have served as long-standing judges on Project Runway. Over the years, the prize package for winners has undergone transformations. However, the ultimate goal remains the same - to secure a cash prize that can help launch their very own fashion line and establish themselves in the industry.

Watch on Hulu

6. 'The Bachelor' (2002 - ) & 'The Bachelorette (2003 - )

Image via ABC

The Bachelor and The Bachelorette, known for their cringe-worthy moments, are a guilty pleasure for fans of the reality dating genre. ABC's successful reality TV series, The Bachelor, follows a single man as he dates multiple women over several weeks, ultimately hoping to find his future wife and propose. The same premise applies to The Bachelorette, with a woman leading the search for love.

Very few relationships from the dating series, The Bachelor and The Bachelorette, have lasted, with only a handful of marriages. Over the course of 27 seasons of The Bachelor and 19 seasons of The Bachelorette, these shows have encountered controversies and a lack of diversity. Despite its questionable success rate in fostering relationships, the series has managed to maintain a loyal fan base, making it a permanent fixture in American reality TV. Catch it on Hulu.

5. 'American Idol' (2002 - )

American Idol, despite its evolution since its inception, remains one of the most influential and groundbreaking singing competitions in the history of reality television. The show, consistently hosted by Ryan Seacrest throughout the years, first started with three judges: Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell, and Paula Abdul.

Notable winners in the past have included music legends such as Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. Although the judges have changed over the various seasons, the enduring popularity of American Idol continues.

Watch on ABC

4. 'RuPaul's Drag Race' (2009 - )

Vibrant and confident individuals breathe life into this captivating reality competition series. RuPaul's Drag Race unites a group of exceptionally talented drag queens who vie for victory in a series of thrilling challenges, including mesmerizing runway showcases, dazzling fashion face-offs, and electrifying lip-sync battles. Their ultimate goal is to claim both a generous cash prize and the prestigious title of America's Next Drag Superstar.

Hosted by the renowned RuPaul, this series has garnered an impressive 26 Emmy Awards throughout its existence. Despite having been aired on various networks, RuPaul's Drag Race continues to be a prominent fixture in reality competition television. The expanding empire of RuPaul's global franchise attests to the enduring and widespread fascination with the show.

Stream on Hulu.

3. 'Big Brother' (2000 - )

Big Brother, a long-standing series, is a straightforward concept that continues to captivate audiences even after twenty years. It revolves around a diverse group of individuals living together under one roof, where their clashing personalities are constantly on display. However, this is no ordinary living situation, as the rooftop is equipped with an impressive array of 94 HD cameras and 113 microphones, capturing every single moment of their lives.

The ultimate objective of the contestants is to avoid eviction through public voting and emerge as the last person standing, earning a grand prize of $500,000. Cut off from the outside world, these participants are constantly under surveillance, necessitating their utmost vigilance to triumph in Big Brother. The title of the show is a nod to George Orwell's renowned novel, Nineteen Eighty-Four.

Watch on Paramount+

2. 'The Amazing Race' (2001 - )

The Amazing Race, one of the most popular reality shows on network television, continues to endure over time. In this captivating series, teams of contestants embark on an exhilarating journey across the globe, visiting awe-inspiring destinations in a fierce competition for a chance to win a whopping $1,000,000. With a tight budget, the teams must outpace their rivals and be the first to reach the final destination in order to claim their well-deserved prize.

The Amazing Race has had the same host, Phil Keoghan, throughout its 34 seasons, just like many other popular reality TV shows. This Emmy-winning series on CBS serves as a reminder that network television can still excel in reality programming, making it a significant presence in the reality TV genre. Catch the show on Hulu.

1. 'Survivor' (2000 - )

Survivor, the undisputed champion of reality television, has been captivating audiences for over twenty years. Throughout its impressive 45-season run, host Jeff Probst has remained a steadfast presence. Blending elements of reality TV, game shows, and wilderness survival, Survivor transports a group of contestants to a tropical island where they must battle it out for the coveted million-dollar prize. Each week, the castaways gather to vote someone off the island, creating suspense and drama at every turn.

This well-rounded series pushes contestants to their limits, both physically and mentally, through a series of grueling challenges and mind-bending puzzles. When they are not testing their mettle in competitions, the participants must fend for themselves, procuring food, fire, and shelter. With its long-standing home on CBS, Survivor has firmly established itself as the pioneer and unrivaled leader in the realm of reality television.

Watch on Hulu