Reality TV, let's be honest, it's the guilty pleasure we all love to indulge in. Over the past decade, we've been treated to a vast array of reality shows, each one offering a unique blend of drama, humor, and heart. So, grab your popcorn and let's take a stroll down memory lane as we count down the 10 best US reality TV series, in no particular order, from 2013 to 2023.
1. RuPaul's Drag Race (2009-present) - Trailer
This show has been serving up sass and sequins for over a decade, but it really hit its stride in the 2010s. With its blend of fashion, performance, and heartwarming personal stories, "RuPaul's Drag Race" has become a cultural phenomenon and a beacon of LGBTQ+ representation.
2. Temptation Island (2019-present) - Trailer
Currently airing it's fifth season of the rebooted version of the show from the early 2000's. The show is hosted by Mark L. Walberg who delivers the perfect blend of wisdom, and the odd dose of reality, to the couples who have chosen to put their relationships to the test. This is the sort of show that sparks awkward conversations between partners, such as, "What would you do in that situation?". The answer is always unequivocally, "I would never want to go to Tempation Island, I love you too much", of course!
3. Love after Lock up (2018-present) - Trailer
There is car crash TV, and then there is "Love after Lock Up". This is one of the funniest reality shows we have seen in years. The characters you will meet in this programme range from the loveable to the completely deluded. The series follows the relationship of couples who primarily have met whilst one of them in is in prison, and documents the release back into the world, and what happens when reality hits. This is a show that has plenty of moments that can only be watched with hands over your eyes, it is hilariously good.
4. MasterChef USA (2010-present) - Trailer
Who knew watching people cook under pressure could be so entertaining? With its blend of culinary creativity, intense competition, and Gordon Ramsay's fiery critiques, "MasterChef" has been a recipe for success. Hard to watch without feeling hungry, so make sure to stock up on snacks for this one!
5. 90 Day Fiancé (2014-present) - Trailer
This show has given us a window into the world of international romance and the challenges of cross-cultural relationships. With its diverse cast and real-life stakes, "90 Day Fiancé" has been a fascinating and often emotional watch. Although some of the couples can be slightly boring, there are some characters in this show that you have to see to believe. Fantastic programme to watch with a glass of wine, a few snacks, and your significant other. There is also a multitude of spin offs that also carry the "90 Day" tag, so if you enjoy it, there is a massive amount of "90 Day" content to feed that fix.
6. The Real Housewives of..... (2006-present) - Trailer
At last count there was 6 varying versions of these series with different housewives from around the USA, and every one of them is a feast of fashion, parties and fiery tempers. Drama is never far away from these shows, and if you can tolerate all the screaming and shouting, then underneath there is a juicy headline just waiting to happen. This women don't hide anything from the cameras, and there is plenty of scandal and controversy to keep it always interesting. Doesn't matter which version you go with, they are all as crazy as the other, and we love them all.
7. Queer Eye (2018-present) - Trailer
This reboot of the early 2000s show has been a hit, with its Fab Five offering not just makeovers, but life transformations. It's a show that's as much about acceptance and self-love as it is about fashion and design.
8. Below Deck (2013-present) - Trailer
Ever wondered what it would be like to travel the world on a luxury yacht and rub shoulders with the rich and famous? Well, with "Below Deck" you can join the crew and peer behind the curtain of a world most of us will never see. The crew changes every season, for the most part, but the drama is always there to stay. This is a fascinating programme with a great, always changing, cast of real characters who work hard, and play even harder.
9. Love is Blind (2020-present) - Trailer
This Netflix hit has taken the dating show format and turned it on its head. With its unique premise and rollercoaster relationships, "Love is Blind" has been a binge-worthy addition to the reality TV landscape. Is it really possible for someone to love you for who you are inside, and not what you look like? This show seeks to find the answer, and it's a rollercoaster of a ride.
10. The Ultimatum: Marry or Move on (2022-present) - Trailer
In each series, a group of couples, are faced with a high-stakes ultimatum. They must decide whether to propose marriage to their current partner or break up and move on to the next potential love interest. As emotions run high and tensions escalate, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of drama, heartbreak, and unexpected twists. With intense challenges, romantic dates, and emotional confrontations, this gripping series explores the complexities of modern relationships and the difficult choices we sometimes have to make in the pursuit of love.
So, there you have it, folks. The past decade has given us some truly iconic reality TV series, each one offering its own unique flavor of entertainment. Whether you're into fashion, food, romance, or some good old-fashioned drama, there's something for everyone.
If you have any to add, drop them in the comments below...we love a bit of reality TV at Ultimate Media!
All shows on this list are included On Demand with our IPTV subscription. Join the cord cutting revolution and cut the cord today.
Comments