The 30+ Best Lifetime Television Shows, Ranked

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Updated June 3, 2024 31.5K views 43 items
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Vote up the best original TV shows that have ever debuted on Lifetime.
Latest additions: Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up, The Life and Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson, Dance Moms: Epic Showdowns
Most divisive: Project Runway: All Stars
Over 700 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 30+ Best Lifetime Television Shows, Ranked

This list of the top current and canceled Lifetime shows of all time includes the date when each show first aired, as well as which actors starred in the show. The best Lifetime TV shows of all time includes old Lifetime shows, as this list covers the entire history of the network. This list is sorted by popularity, so the shows with the most votes are at the top of the list.

Answering the question, “What is the best Lifetime show of all time?”, this list includes favorites like Little Women: LA, Dance Moms, and Surviving R. Kelly. If you're interested in scripted series there’s everything from Drop Dead Diva to Witches of East End. If reality dating shows are your thing, then Lifetime has got your back with the Married at First Sight franchise. For fans of competitive shows, Lifetime has you covered with shows like Project Runway and Making A Model.

What are the best Lifetime TV series ever? Vote up the best Lifetime shows, or use this list to build a whole new one just like it, then re-rank it to fit your opinion.

  • Dance Moms
    1

    Dance Moms

    Abby Lee Miller, Maddie Ziegler, Chloe Lukasiak
    287 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Bring It!, So Sharp, Cheerleader Generation, Kim of Queens, Little Women: LA
    Why Should I Stream? Enter the world of competitive dance and observe the intense dynamics between mothers and their talented offspring. Dance Moms showcases passion, perseverance, and determination through the perspectives of young dancers and the lengths their families will go for success. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes glimpse into what it takes to make a mark in the highly-competitive dance industry.

    Mothers urge their daughters to perform in the world of competitive dance.
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  • Army Wives
    2

    Army Wives

    Catherine Bell, Brian McNamara, Kelli Williams
    110 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Drop Dead Diva, The Client List, Any Day Now, The Protector, American Princess
    Why Should I Stream? An emotionally charged drama that delves into the lives of military spouses as they navigate love, friendship, and family while facing the challenges that come with being part of an army community. Army Wives is lauded for its honest portrayal of sacrifice, resilience, and camaraderie among military families. Tune in for a moving exploration of strength in times of adversity.

    A group of women and one man live with their spouses on an Army base.
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      The Life and Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson
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  • Drop Dead Diva
    3

    Drop Dead Diva

    Brooke Elliott, Margaret Cho, Kate Levering
    129 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Client List, The Protector, Devious Maids, Army Wives, Any Day Now
    Why Should I Stream? A must-watch dramedy that tackles themes of self-discovery, redemption, and second chances; Drop Dead Diva offers a fresh perspective on life after death. With its clever writing, lovable characters, and intriguing storylines, this show will keep viewers entertained from start to finish. The perfect fusion of humor and heart makes for an enjoyable binge-worthy series.

    Drop Dead Diva, which premiered in 2009, is a comedic drama that follows the story of a shallow model, Deb, who dies and is reincarnated as Jane, a brilliant plus-sized lawyer. The show looks at identity, self-esteem, and beauty standards as Deb navigates her new life in Jane's body. Brooke Elliott shines in the lead role with Margaret Cho providing strong support. The series received critical acclaim for its unique premise and empowering message about body positivity. It was nominated for multiple awards during its run, including a GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Individual Episode.
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  • Devious Maids
    4

    Devious Maids

    Ana Ortiz, Judy Reyes, Dania Ramirez
    37 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Drop Dead Diva, Witches of East End, Desperate Housewives, The Lizzie Borden Chronicles, UnREAL
    Why Should I Stream? From the creators of Desperate Housewives comes another addictively entertaining soap opera filled with mystery, suspense, and dark humor – Devious Maids! Centered around a group of domestic workers, this show cleverly unravels a web of secrets and scandals in the glamorous world of Beverly Hills. Watch Devious Maids for its exceptional ensemble cast, witty dialogue, and captivating storylines that hold viewers' attention episode after episode.

    Five maids become close while working for the rich and famous in Beverly Hills.
  • You
    5

    You

    Penn Badgley, Tati Gabrielle, Charlotte Ritchie
    52 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, Riverdale, Bates Motel, Dexter
    Why Should I Stream? Drama and suspense take center stage in You – a psychological thriller that has taken pop culture by storm. The series masterfully delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and the dark side of human nature. With complex characters and edge-of-your-seat tension throughout, it's no wonder You has become a must-watch sensation.

    A dangerously charming man falls in love with women and inserts himself into their lives.
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  • Bring It!
    6

    Bring It!

    Dianna Williams, Camryn Harris, Makalah Whitenson
    54 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Dance Moms, So You Think You Can Dance, World of Dance, Cheer Squad, Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition
    Why Should I Stream? Witness raw talent and intense competition as dance teams battle it out in high-stakes showdowns on Bring It! This reality series showcases dedication, discipline, and teamwork among young performers striving to perfect their craft under immense pressure. For fans of dance and dynamic rivalries alike, Bring It! is a viewing essential.

    A look at the elite world of hip-hop majorette competitions.
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  • UnREAL
    7

    UnREAL

    Shiri Appleby, Constance Zimmer, Craig Bierko
    25 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Bachelor, Devious Maids, Scandal, Jane the Virgin, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
    Why Should I Stream? UnREAL pulls back the curtain on reality dating shows by offering a fictionalized behind-the-scenes look at the manipulation that goes on away from the cameras. With strong performances by Shiri Appleby and Constance Zimmer alongside biting satire reflecting real-world tabloid culture, UnREAL is a compelling watch that keeps viewers hooked episode after episode.

    UnREAL, which premiered on June 1, 2015, offers a dark and biting behind-the-scenes look at the chaos surrounding the production of a dating competition reality show called Everlasting. Led by Shiri Appleby as the morally conflicted producer Rachel Goldberg and Constance Zimmer as her acid-tongued mentor Quinn King, the series delves deep into the murky world of reality TV production where manipulation and deceit are tools of the trade. The show is acclaimed for its sharp writing, strong performances, and its searing commentary on the ethics of entertainment and the manipulation inherent in reality television. UnREAL has amassed critical praise for its anti-heroine protagonists and its window into the psychological toll of the reality TV industry, earning Constance Zimmer a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
  • The Client List
    8

    The Client List

    Jennifer Love Hewitt, Cybill Shepherd, Loretta Devine
    65 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Desperate Housewives, Drop Dead Diva, Devious Maids, Mistresses, Pretty Little Liars
    Why Should I Stream? The Client List takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster as they watch one woman balance her small-town life with the dark secrets of her professional career. A captivating testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity; this drama will have viewers eagerly anticipating each twist and turn. Don't miss Jennifer Love Hewitt's star performance in The Client List.

    A single mother in financial straits takes a job at a day spa that offers services beyond massages.
  • Project Runway
    9

    Project Runway

    Christian Siriano, Tim Gunn
    79 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Project Runway: All Stars, Making a Model, America's Next Top Model, Fashion Star, Chopped
    Why Should I Stream? As a definitive competition show in the fashion world, Project Runway combines creativity, pressure, and jaw-dropping design challenges to showcase the best up-and-coming talents. Featuring inspiring success stories and industry insight from renowned judges like Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn, this series is a must-see for aspiring designers and fashion enthusiasts alike.

    Project Runway, a reality competition series, showcases the creativity and talent of aspiring fashion designers as they face various challenges to create innovative garments. With mentor Tim Gunn guiding the contestants, and host Heidi Klum leading the panel of esteemed judges, the show has garnered critical acclaim, securing numerous Emmy nominations since its inception in 2004. Throughout the seasons, viewers have been treated to memorable designs and intense rivalries, while gaining insight into the demanding world of fashion. The series not only spotlights emerging designers but also features notable guest judges, including Diane von Fürstenberg and Victoria Beckham, further enriching the viewer experience.
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  • The Lizzie Borden Chronicles
    10

    The Lizzie Borden Chronicles

    Christina Ricci, Clea Duvall, Cole Hauser
    17 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: American Horror Story, Witches of East End, Penny Dreadful, Bates Motel, Scream Queens
    Why Should I Stream? This chilling historical drama reimagines the infamous Lizzie Borden murders while weaving together fact and fiction in a compelling narrative. With gripping performances from Christina Ricci as the enigmatic protagonist, audiences are drawn into her twisted world with each suspenseful episode. The Lizzie Borden Chronicles offers an intriguing interpretation of true crime history that keeps viewers guessing.

    After she is acquitted of murder, Lizzie Borden gains a celebrity status and has numerous affairs.
  • Witches of East End
    11

    Witches of East End

    Julia Ormond, Mädchen Amick, Jenna Dewan
    23 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Charmed, The Secret Circle, Devious Maids, The Vampire Diaries, Salem
    Why Should I Stream? For lovers of supernatural dramas with strong female leads, Witches of East End delivers magic, mystery, and unforgettable characters set against an atmospheric backdrop. This spellbinding series boasts a captivating storyline that explores themes of family, love, and the power within. A binge-worthy watch for anyone who appreciates intrigue and enchantment.

    A family of witches lives in a secluded seaside town.
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  • Little Women: Atlanta
    12

    Little Women: Atlanta

    Bri Barlup, Tiffany Cashette, Emily Fernandez
    23 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Little Women: LA, Big Women, Big Love, Married at First Sight, Preachers' Daughters, I Wasn't Expecting a Baby!
    Why Should I Stream? Enter the lives of dynamic women with big personalities as they navigate friendships, careers, and relationships in Little Women: Atlanta. This reality series offers an authentic portrayal of these ladies' experiences while breaking stereotypes about living with dwarfism. Watch for its empowering message, relatable conflicts, and heartwarming moments.

    The lives of friends who live in Atlanta.
  • Preachers' Daughters
    13

    Preachers' Daughters

    Megan Cassidy, Tyche Crockett
    19 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Dance Moms, Bring It!, So Sharp, Cheerleader Generation, Kim of Queens
    Why Should I Stream? Preachers' Daughters offers a unique perspective into the lives of clergy families as they balance faith with modern-day challenges faced by their teenage daughters. Showcasing genuine relationships among parents struggling to raise strong-willed teens in today's world; this series provides insight into rarely seen aspects of religious life. A fascinating watch for fans of faith-based and family-centered programming.

    Teen girls try to balance temptation with their parents' strict expectations.
  • Any Day Now
    14

    Any Day Now

    Jeff Dunham, Annie Potts, Lorraine Toussaint
    46 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Judging Amy, Cold Case, Touched by an Angel, Sisters, Providence
    Why Should I Stream? Exploring themes of friendship, civil rights, and social change – Any Day Now is an important drama set against the backdrop of 1960s America. This critically acclaimed show examines how two women from different backgrounds come together to challenge societal norms while forging an unbreakable bond. Fans of character-driven dramas will appreciate Any Day Now's powerful storytelling.

    Any Day Now is an American drama series that aired on the Lifetime network from 1998 to 2002. The show stars Annie Potts and Lorraine Toussaint, who are best friends despite the difference in their races. The show's title is taken from the 1962 Chuck Jackson song "Any Day Now", which was later covered by Ronnie Milsap in 1982. A version performed by Lori Perry served as the show's theme song.
  • America's Most Wanted
    15

    America's Most Wanted

    John Walsh
    43 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Unsolved Mysteries, Dateline NBC, Forensic Files, Cold Case Files, The First 48
    Why Should I Stream? Tune in to one of the most influential crime-fighting television shows, America's Most Wanted. This long-running series has generated numerous tips leading to the capture of dangerous fugitives and solved countless cases by highlighting unsolved crimes and wanted criminals. For true crime enthusiasts, America's Most Wanted is a vital part of the genre's history.

    Host John Walsh enlists viewer assistance in tracking and capturing fugitives.
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  • Project Runway: All Stars
    16

    Project Runway: All Stars

    Anne Fulenwider, Zanna Roberts Rassi, Joanna Coles
    48 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Project Runway, Making a Model, America's Next Top Model, Fashion Star, Chopped
    Why Should I Stream? Returning fan-favorite designers from past seasons compete for ultimate glory in Project Runway: All Stars! Expect jaw-dropping fashion moments, nail-biting eliminations, and incredible displays of creativity from familiar faces who have honed their skills even further since their initial appearances. For fans seeking more high-stakes fashion competition, this spin-off delivers in spades.

    Fashion designers compete for prizes.
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  • Kim of Queens
    17

    Kim of Queens

    Kim Gravel, Allisyn Hardee Lambes, Jo Hardee
    12 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Dance Moms, Cheer Perfection, Toddlers & Tiaras, Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition, Bring It!
    Why Should I Stream? Follow the journey of former Miss Georgia as she mentors aspiring young beauty queens on their path to success in Kim of Queens. This reality show expertly balances pageant glamor with powerful life lessons on confidence, self-worth, and personal growth. An inspiring watch that showcases both outer beauty and inner strength.

    Kim of Queens (Lifetime, 2014) is an American reality TV show about a pageant coach, 1991 Miss Georgia winner Kim Gravel, and her mother Jo, and her younger sister Allisyn training young girls for beauty pageants.
  • The Rap Game
    18

    The Rap Game

    Jermaine Dupri, Jayla Marie
    16 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Rhythm + Flow, Signed, Hip Hop Boot Camp, Master of the Mix, One Shot
    Why Should I Stream? The search for the next big hip-hop star hits center stage in The Rap Game – a riveting music competition series led by legendary producer Jermaine Dupri. Witness talented performers as they tackle challenges that test not only their lyrical prowess but also their resilience under pressure. A surefire hit for hip-hop aficionados and fans of intense talent showdowns alike.

    The Rap Game (Lifetime, 2016) is an American reality television series. Young contestants are pushed to the challenge when they enter this reality show about what it really means to be in the Hiphop/ Rap industry.
  • Cheerleader Generation
    19

    Cheerleader Generation

    Donna Martin, Ryan O'Connor
    15 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Dance Moms, Bring It!, So Sharp, Last Chance U, Cheer Squad
    Why Should I Stream? An inspiring look into the lives of high school and college cheerleaders as they juggle academics, friendships, and rigorous training schedules; Cheerleader Generation celebrates perseverance and teamwork through adversity. With raw emotion and nail-biting performances at stake, viewers are drawn into each team member's journey towards success both on and off the mat.

    Cheerleader Generation (Lifetime, 2019) is an American documentary reality television series. Set in the world of competitive cheerleading, the show follows the head coach of the Lexington Kentucky’s Dunbar High School cheerleading team Donna Martin and her daughter Ryan O'Connor, the head coach of Ole' Miss.
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  • Little Women: LA
    20

    Little Women: LA

    Terra Jolé, Tonya Banks, Elena Gant
    15 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Little Women: Atlanta, Big Women, Big Love, Married at First Sight, Preachers' Daughters, I Wasn't Expecting a Baby!
    Why Should I Stream? Delve into the lives of a close-knit group of friends in Little Women: LA as they navigate career ambitions, relationships, and personal challenges while living with dwarfism. This reality series offers an empowering portrayal of strong women defying stereotypes and breaking barriers. Tune in for camaraderie, growth, and heartwarming moments.

    Little Women: LA (Lifetime, 2014) is an American reality television series. The series chronicles the lives of little women who are friends living in Los Angeles, California in their quests to live life to the fullest.
  • Cellmate Secrets
    21

    Cellmate Secrets

    Angie Harmon
    13 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Snapped, Prison Brides, The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, Deadly Women, The Murder Tapes
    Why Should I Stream? Get up close and personal with some of America's most notorious criminals through the eyes of their former cellmates in this riveting true crime documentary series – Cellmate Secrets. These firsthand accounts reveal shocking insights into infamous cases such as Jodi Arias, Casey Anthony, and more, offering viewers a unique perspective on chilling crimes that have captivated headlines.

    New insights and information as former friends give firsthand accounts of their time with felons.
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  • The Protector
    22

    The Protector

    Ally Walker, Chris Payne Gilbert, Tisha Campbell-Martin
    24 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Drop Dead Diva, Army Wives, Any Day Now, In Plain Sight, Rizzoli & Isles
    Why Should I Stream? Action-packed scenes, intriguing mysteries, and supernatural threats await viewers in The Protector – a Turkish fantasy drama series about a young man who discovers his destiny to save Istanbul from destruction by evil forces. With captivating storylines and immersive visuals complemented by standout performances from its ensemble cast; this show is perfect for fans of international TV productions brimming with excitement.

    A divorced homicide detective juggles her personal and professional lives.
  • So Sharp
    23

    So Sharp

    Todd Sharp, Sheryl Knight
    8 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Dance Moms, Bring It!, Cheerleader Generation, Cheer Squad, World of Dance
    Why Should I Stream? Step into the fiercely competitive world of college dance teams through the lens of So Sharp – an exhilarating reality show that follows one coach's quest to create an elite squad capable of dominating national competitions. Featuring intense training sessions, heart-pounding performances, and emotional moments; this series highlights determination, teamwork, and passion behind every high-stakes routine.

    So Sharp (Lifetime, 2017) is a reality television series. The show follows the University of Louisville Ladybirds collegiate dance team through performances and competitions.
  • Big Women, Big Love
    24

    Big Women, Big Love

    Pleasant Wayne, Ryan Manuel, Matt Nagin
    8 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Little Women: Atlanta, Little Women: LA, My Giant Life, Married at First Sight, Dating Naked
    Why Should I Stream? Big Women, Big Love shines a spotlight on five plus-sized women as they navigate dating challenges in their quest for love and happiness. Breaking stereotypes surrounding beauty standards while exploring themes like self-confidence and resilience; this reality show provides relatable experiences for viewers seeking compelling personal stories set against real-world struggles.

    Big Women, Big Love (Lifetime, 2015) is a reality television series. A group of plus-size women navigate the often harsh, sometimes bewildering dating scene in twit search for love.
  • Married at First Sight
    25

    Married at First Sight

    Pepper Schwartz, Calvin Roberson, Jessica Griffin
    6 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Married at First Sight: Afterparty, 90 Day Fiancé, The Bachelor, Love Is Blind, Dating Naked
    Why Should I Stream? For those intrigued by unconventional relationship journeys, Married at First Sight presents an intriguing social experiment where strangers are matched by experts and meet for the first time on their wedding day. Follow each couple's emotional rollercoaster as they navigate life together, facing challenges and triumphs in equal measure. This groundbreaking series has captivated audiences worldwide with its fascinating exploration of love, compatibility, and commitment.

    People looking for the perfect partner are scientifically matched up and married on the spot.
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  • Married at First Sight: Afterparty
    26

    Married at First Sight: Afterparty

    Keshia Knight Pullia
    6 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Married at First Sight, 90 Day Fiancé, The Bachelor, Love Is Blind, Dating Naked
    Why Should I Stream? Offering insights into life after the cameras stop rolling; Married at First Sight: Afterparty delves deeper into the lives of fan-favorite couples featured on the original show through exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and never-before-seen moments. For viewers craving an extended look into these compelling relationships, this spin-off is a must-watch.

    Married at First Sight: Afterparty (Lifetime, 2022) is an American talk show series spun-off of Married at First Sight. Hosted by Keshia Pullia, she talks with the current MAFS cast to get the inside scoop on the action, romance, and behind the scenes drama.
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  • Making a Model
    27

    Making a Model

    Yolanda Hadid, Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid
    11 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Project Runway, Project Runway: All Stars, America's Next Top Model, Fashion Star, Chopped
    Why Should I Stream? Supermodel Yolanda Hadid mentors aspiring young models and their mothers in the fiercely competitive world of fashion modeling in Making a Model. Showcasing perseverance, growth, and lessons learned throughout this intense journey; this reality series will leave viewers inspired by the determination these contestants display while chasing their dreams.

    Making a Model (Lifetime, 2018) is an American reality television series. Former model Yolanda Hadid coaches aspiring teen models to succeed on and off the catwalk.
  • Child Genius
    28

    Child Genius

    Tanishq Abraham, Katie Silverman, Matt Stern
    11 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?, Jeopardy!, MasterChef Junior, Spelling the Dream, Brain Games
    Why Should I Stream? Witness exceptional young minds as they compete to be crowned America's brightest child prodigy in Child Genius – an enthralling competition series that showcases extraordinary intellectual abilities in various fields such as math, spelling, geography, and more. A fascinating watch for fans who appreciate gifted talents being pushed to their limits.

    Child Genius (Lifetime, 2015) is an American reality competition series. The show features 20 children between the ages of 8 to 12 from across the country, all competing for a $100,000 college fund and the title of Child Genius 2014.
  • American Princess
    29

    American Princess

    Georgia Flood, Lucas Neff, Seana Kofoed
    5 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Army Wives, Drop Dead Diva, The Client List, Any Day Now, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
    Why Should I Stream? In this fish-out-of-water comedy-drama series; American Princess follows one woman's journey as she unexpectedly finds herself immersed in modern-day Renaissance Faire culture while escaping a scandalous personal setback. With support from her newfound friends and newfound sense of self-discovery; viewers will be charmed by this heartwarming story full of laughter and personal growth.

    American Princess (Lifetime, 2018) is an American drama television series created by Jamie Denbo. When the storybook wedding plans of Upper East Side socialite Amanda (Georgia Flood) are dramatically derailed she runs away from her own dream wedding in the countryside, only to find herself stranded in the middle of a Renaissance Faire and, leaving everything she thought she cared about behind, becomes the Faire’s newest wench-in-waiting.
  • Leave It to Geege
    30

    Leave It to Geege

    Geege Taylor
    4 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Dance Moms, Bring It!, Cheerleader Generation, Kim of Queens, Little Women: Atlanta
    Why Should I Stream? This inspiring reality show offers an intimate glimpse into the life of entrepreneur Geege Taylor as she balances career aspirations, philanthropy, and family challenges. Leave It to Geege showcases the power of resilience, determination, and kindness as viewers are drawn into her journey towards personal and professional success.

    A Georgia twice-divorced mother, cancer survivor and activist provides a glimpse into her family.
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