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The 320+ Best Reality Competition Shows
- 1Jeff Probst
An extraordinary display of human resilience and social maneuvering, this legendary series invites contestants to outwit, outplay, and outlast their competitors while stranded in remote locations around the world. The show's format serves as a thrilling examination of human behavior under demanding conditions, with its iconic tribal council sessions providing viewers with unforgettable moments of betrayal, camaraderie, and emotional vulnerability. The diverse array of personalities and backgrounds among the cast members ensures that each season remains captivating and unique, fostering a dedicated fan base that eagerly awaits every new installment.
Emerging as a pioneer in the realm of reality competition series, this adrenaline-fueled program introduced viewers to a unique blend of physically demanding tasks and cunning mental challenges. Contestants, often hailing from diverse backgrounds, are pitted against one another in a race to claim the ultimate prize. A true testament to human resilience and teamwork, the show delves into the depths of interpersonal dynamics, frequently sparking alliances and rivalries within the ever-evolving cast. With its innovative format and engaging host, this production set the stage for countless imitations and adaptations in the years to follow.
The Challenge is a reality competition show on MTV that premiered in 1998 and is a spin-off of The Real World and Road Rules. It features alumni from these shows, as well as contestants from other MTV franchises, non-MTV shows, and competitions. The cast varies each season and is made up of veterans and rookies. The contestants compete in extreme challenges to avoid elimination, with the winners of the final challenge sharing a cash prize. Each season has a unique subtitle that reflects its format and theme.- 3Phil Keoghan
A heart-pounding adrenaline rush that sends teams of two on a whirlwind journey across the globe, this enduring series tests the limits of physical endurance, mental acuity, and interpersonal relationships. Viewers are gripped by the intense race against time as dynamic duos navigate foreign cultures, decipher cryptic clues, and overcome grueling challenges in pursuit of the coveted grand prize. The program's remarkable blend of exotic locales, high-stake rivalries, and touching human moments has garnered a passionate following and numerous accolades, solidifying its status as a must-watch reality competition.
- 4RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Santino Rice
A groundbreaking series that combines dazzling creativity and fierce competition, this cultural phenomenon showcases the artistry, charisma, and talent of drag queens from around the world. Hosted by the inimitable RuPaul, the show's contestants vie for the ultimate title of "America's Next Drag Superstar" through a variety of fashion, performance, and comedic challenges. With its trailblazing representation of LGBTQ+ culture, ferocious lip sync battles, and heartfelt personal stories, this transformative program has inspired countless fans and established itself as a modern-day classic.
Unveiling a riveting blend of strategy, manipulation, and alliances, this groundbreaking series introduces a singular concept that keeps the audience on their toes. A diverse group of contestants is brought together, tasked with completing various challenges as they form alliances to survive weekly eliminations. However, within their ranks lie hidden "traitors" who conspire to sabotage their team's efforts. As suspicions arise and loyalties are put to the test, contestants must rely on intuitive social dynamics and strategic thinking to unmask the traitors before it's too late.
- 6Julie Chen, Phil Proctor, Clayton Halsey
A psychological experiment turned global sensation, this long-running series thrusts a diverse group of individuals into a confined living space where cameras capture their every move. Participants must form strategic alliances and outmaneuver their peers in a bid for survival, as they are subject to periodic evictions determined by the votes of their fellow housemates. The program's distinctive combination of voyeuristic intrigue and Machiavellian gameplay has captivated audiences for decades, spawning multiple international adaptations and a dedicated fan community.
A captivating blend of reality competition and espionage thriller, this innovative series tasks a group of contestants with completing various assignments to earn money for a collective pot. Unbeknownst to them, one member of the group operates as a saboteur or "mole," covertly attempting to undermine their efforts. As alliances form and suspicions mount, players must correctly identify the mole in order to avoid elimination and ultimately claim the accumulated prize money. With its unique premise and compelling twists, this engrossing show remains a standout among reality television offerings.
- 8Sue Perkins, Mel Giedroyc
A delightful celebration of culinary prowess and individual passion, this beloved series invites amateur bakers to showcase their skills in a series of intricate challenges. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the English countryside, participants must craft exquisite confections under the watchful eyes of esteemed judges and hosts, while simultaneously fostering a spirit of camaraderie and support. The show's heartwarming moments, stunning creations, and quintessentially British charm have endeared it to audiences worldwide, earning it a devoted and enduring following.
- 9Marino Monferrato, Andi Van Willigan, James Avery
A gripping showcase of culinary ambition and unrelenting pressure, this intense series invites aspiring chefs to prove their mettle under the exacting gaze of renowned chef Gordon Ramsay. As contestants navigate high-stakes dinner services, grueling challenges, and Ramsay's infamous tirades, they must demonstrate exceptional skill and resilience in order to claim the coveted prize of a head chef position at a prestigious restaurant. With its fiery confrontations and dramatic eliminations, this compelling program remains a fixture in the pantheon of reality television.
- 10Matt Iseman, Jenn Brown, Akbar Gbaja-Biamila
A thrilling spectacle of physical prowess and determination, this captivating series challenges athletes to conquer a grueling obstacle course that tests the limits of their strength, speed, and agility. Inspired by the original Japanese competition, the show's awe-inspiring feats and nail-biting eliminations have garnered a devoted fan base, while its uplifting personal stories and championing of everyday heroes have made it an enduring symbol of triumph over adversity.
- 11Alan Cumming, John Ritchie, Kate Chastain
Building upon the captivating premise of its predecessor, this new installment pushes the boundaries of reality competition with an even more intricate web of deceit and subterfuge. Delving deeper into the psychology of trust and betrayal, the show explores how contestants navigate the treacherous waters of shifting alliances while simultaneously trying to unmask the infiltrators among them.
- 12McKenzie Westmore
A mesmerizing showcase of artistic mastery and boundless imagination, this unique series invites talented special effects makeup artists to bring fantastical creatures and characters to life. Tasked with transforming their models through elaborate prosthetics, intricate paintwork, and inventive costume design, contestants must impress a panel of industry experts to advance through each round of competition. The show's otherworldly creations and unparalleled craftsmanship have earned it a dedicated following among fans of visual artistry and genre storytelling alike.
- 13Adrianne Curry, Yoanna House, Tyra Banks
A groundbreaking fusion of fashion, entertainment, and fierce competition, this iconic series offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the glamorous and cutthroat world of modeling. Under the mentorship of supermodel Tyra Banks, aspiring models face a gauntlet of high-stakes challenges and photo shoots, all while navigating the interpersonal dynamics of shared living quarters. With its captivating blend of creative collaboration and intense rivalry, this program has served as a launchpad for numerous successful careers and inspired countless spin-offs and adaptations.
- 14Christian Siriano, Tim Gunn
Immerse yourself in the high-stakes world of fashion as aspiring designers navigate the fierce competition to create innovative and awe-inspiring garments. Under the watchful eyes of industry icons, contestants face challenges that test their creativity, technical skills, and resilience in pursuit of the ultimate prize – a chance to launch their own fashion line.
- 15Dave Navarro, Chris Nunez, Oliver Peck
Witness raw artistic talent as tattoo artists from across the country vie for supremacy in this fierce competition. The stakes are high as contestants showcase their creative abilities, technical precision, and adaptability in a range of styles, facing the scrutiny of renowned judges and the potential reward of propelling their careers to new heights.
- 16Michelle Buteau
A timely exploration of the digital age and the nature of human connection, this innovative series invites participants to inhabit a virtual world where they can only communicate through a specially designed social media platform. As they forge relationships based on curated personas and strategic deception, players must jockey for popularity in order to avoid elimination and ultimately emerge as the top influencer. The program's unique blend of suspenseful gameplay and thought-provoking commentary on identity and authenticity has struck a chord with contemporary audiences, earning it widespread acclaim and international adaptations.
- 17
Australian Survivor
Rob Dickson, Sciona BrowneBuilding upon the legacy of its American counterpart, this exhilarating adaptation transports a diverse cast of contestants to the rugged expanses of the Australian wilderness, where they face intense physical and mental trials in their quest for survival. The unique cultural dynamics and breathtaking landscapes infuse the familiar format with fresh excitement, ensuring that even veteran viewers remain on the edge of their seats. As alliances shift and betrayals unfold, the contestants' resilience and cunning are put to the ultimate test, solidifying the show's reputation as a high-stakes battle of wits and willpower.
- 18T. J. Lavin
- 19Will Arnett
Unleash your inner child as teams of talented builders embark on a quest to construct mind-blowing LEGO creations. From epic battles to intricate cityscapes, each challenge pushes contestants' imaginations and engineering prowess to the limit, with the final masterpiece determining their fate in this playful yet intense showdown.
- 20Nick Uhas
Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing art of glassblowing as skilled artisans transform molten glass into exquisite sculptures and functional objects. As the furnace heats up, so does the rivalry between competitors, who must outshine one another with their ingenuity, craftsmanship, and flair to secure victory and the prestigious title of Master Glassblower.
- 21Emeril Lagasse, Gail Simmons, Padma Lakshmi
Delve into the culinary world as professional chefs from around the globe gather to prove their expertise in this prestigious cooking competition. From innovative flavor combinations to flawless presentation, each challenge is a true test of skill, passion, and creativity, with the most outstanding chef claiming the coveted title and lucrative career opportunities.
- 22Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Carson Daly
Witness the transformative power of music as vocalists from all walks of life take center stage in this groundbreaking singing competition. Guided by a panel of superstar coaches, contestants hone their skills through blind auditions, battle rounds, and live performances – all in pursuit of a recording contract and the chance to share their voice with the world.
- Real-life contestants compete in a series of high-stakes games in pursuit of $4.56 million.
- 24Ted Allen, Alex Guarnaschelli, Marc Murphy
Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as four chefs race against the clock to create a gourmet meal using a basket of mystery ingredients. With each course, the tension mounts as contestants face elimination based on flavor, originality, and execution, leaving only one masterful chef standing victorious.
- One hundred contestants compete in a series of grueling challenges.
- 26Gildart Jackson
Embark on a thrilling, mind-bending journey in this interactive murder mystery series, where contestants must unravel a complex web of clues, alibis, and motives to unmask the killer among them. With each chilling revelation, the stakes rise as players risk elimination, and the ultimate sleuth earns a handsome reward.
- 27Nicole Byer, Jacques Torres, Zac Young
Embrace the hilarity and chaos of amateur baking as contestants attempt to recreate extravagant confections in this delightful competition. Hosted by the charismatic Nicole Byer and renowned pastry chef Jacques Torres, the show celebrates the spirit of creativity, persistence, and fun – proving that sometimes, it's okay not to nail it.
- 28Tan France, Alexa Chung
Indulge in the glamorous world of high fashion as up-and-coming designers collaborate in a series of challenges aimed at revolutionizing the industry. Under the mentorship of style icons Tan France and Alexa Chung, contestants push the boundaries of creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity to redefine fashion norms and claim their place in fashion history.
- 29
Top Chef Junior
Kid cooks compete in the same challenges that "Top Chef" fans have come to know and love. - 30Heidi Klum, Tim Gunn
Dive into the cutthroat world of fashion as designers from around the world compete to make their mark under the guidance of industry legends Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn. Through intricate challenges rooted in collaboration, innovation, and global influence, contestants vie for the chance to create their own fashion empire and redefine the industry's landscape.
