Over the past decade – and the last few years in particular – reality TV has become a cornerstone of entertainment, and that isn’t going to change anytime soon. While some people may still think of reality TV as tacky or invasive (which it sometimes is), the rise in popularity of the genre has also expanded the kinds of shows created.
There’s still plenty of drama in reality TV, but today there’s something for any interest – from romance to house hunting to dog whispering and more. Here are some of the reality TV shows available to watch on DIRECTV.
And make sure to keep coming back to this list to see the most up-to-date information on what real TV lovers are watching right now. From Judge Judy to Life Below Zero: First Alaskans, this list will help reality TV fans stay up to date on the most entertaining unscripted shows available to watch now.
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Most Popular Reality TV Shows
Towering above even the most popular reality TV shows is one of the first of its kind, which essentially created the reality format we know and love today: Survivor.
If you haven’t watched Survivor, this is your sign to give it a shot. And if you love Survivor, consider checking out some of the other top reality TV shows listed below.
TOP 10 REALITY TV SHOWS TO WATCH
Below is your go-to list of the top reality shows to watch on TV right now. Whether you’re looking for a single episode to pass the time or want to do a deep dive into an entire season, you can’t go wrong with the shows listed below.
1. ‘Judge Judy’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Experience the sharp wit and unyielding justice meted out in Judge Judy’s courtroom. With 25 seasons under her belt, Judge Judy Sheindlin rules with an iron fist, settling disputes ranging from neighbor battles and business disagreements to family feuds and so many other unbelievable conflicts. Her no-nonsense demeanor and biting humor add an entertaining layer to this reality courtroom drama.
2. ‘Storage Wars’
↑ 1 vs. Prior Week
Dive into the high-pressure world of competitive bidding with Storage Wars. This riveting reality show introduces you to modern-day treasure hunters who blindly bid on abandoned storage units for potential riches. As each lot is opened, it could contain either invaluable items or worthless junk, bringing a new level of suspense to every episode.
With a captivating blend of anticipation, competition and occasionally outrageous characters, Storage Wars takes you on a thrilling journey where every bid is a gamble, and every unit is a mystery.
3. ‘Beat Bobby Flay’
↑ 61 vs. Prior Week
Who can beat celebrity chef Bobby Flay at his own game? In Beat Bobby Flay, two of some of the most talented chefs in the game compete for the chance to take on this culinary legend. The suspense builds as they fight tooth and nail, using every trick in their cookbook, to impress the judges and earn the chance at the ultimate face-off in the kitchen. Only one will get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to beat Bobby Flay and ascend from student to teacher.
4. ‘Hot Bench’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Hot Bench takes court television to a whole new level with its unique and compelling format. Three judges, Tanya Acker, Patricia DiMango and Michael Corriero, deliver justice as they hear cases and later debate the facts amongst themselves in this captivating courtroom series produced by Judge Judy Sheindlin.
5. ‘The Incredible Dr. Pol’
↑ 21 vs. Prior Week
Venture into the heart of rural Michigan with The Incredible Dr. Pol. With over 19,000 clients (animal clients, that is), Jan Pol isn’t your average vet ? he’s The Incredible Dr. Pol! This captivating show takes you on a journey through the world of large-scale animal care, from birthing calves to wrestling pigs. With his unwavering dedication, night or day, Dr. Pol’s determination to save every animal in his care, whether they are pets, farm animals or even exotic species, makes for a truly heart-warming and adventurous docuseries. Experience the trials, tribulations and triumphs of veterinary work on The Incredible Dr. Pol.
6. ‘Bitchin’ Rides’
↑ 26 vs. Prior Week
Dive into the world of automobile restoration with Bitchin’ Rides. Based in Salt Lake City’s Kindig-It Design, an expert team led by Dave Kindig breathes new life into classic cars and constructs unique custom vehicles. Each episode reveals the dedication, creativity, and painstaking detail that goes into these high-end projects. Follow this gifted crew as they exceed clients’ expectations and build dream rides that mix nostalgia with modern luxury. Gear up for an adrenaline-fueled escapade into car culture, where classic charm meets innovative design.
7. ‘Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits’
↑ 22 vs. Prior Week
Join Theresa Caputo, popularly known as the Long Island Medium, on a fascinating journey into the spiritual realm in Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits. Caputo’s charismatic personality and incredible ability to communicate with the departed provides comfort and closure to those in need.
This show is more than just a run-of-the-mill celebrity reality show. It intertwines heartwarming stories, spontaneous laughter and tear-jerking moments, taking viewers on an emotional roller coaster. Plus, follow Theresa’s daily life as she balances family, friendships and her unique abilities in this compelling, feel-good series.
8. ‘Cesar Millan: Better Human Better Dog’
↑ 27 vs. Prior Week
Join world-famous dog behaviorist Cesar Millan in Cesar Millan: Better Human Better Dog, as he works to transform distressed dogs and their owners. Each episode captures the raw emotion and intense challenges Millan faces in his pursuit to mend relationships between pups and their parents.
Internationally known for his remarkable work, Millan educates families on effective training techniques while instilling essential life values. This captivating show sheds light on the importance of creating a more harmonious environment for everyone.
9. ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey’
↑ 26 vs. Prior Week
Dive into the glitz, glamor and explosive drama of The Real Housewives of New Jersey. In this hit reality TV series, Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania and the gang share an unapologetically opulent lifestyle filled with lavish parties and luxury vacations. But all the glamour doesn’t come without its fair share of conflict.
Feuds, friendships and family ties frequently burst into fiery fights that grip you from episode to episode. Tune in to see these grand dames of Jersey navigate life, love and high-stakes drama in their exclusive world of wealth.
10. ‘Life Below Zero: First Alaskans’
↑ 26 vs. Prior Week
Life Below Zero: First Alaskans offers an intimate portrayal of the daily trials and tribulations faced by native Alaskans. Immerse yourself in the lives of the Hailstone family, a clan led by skilled hunters and gatherers navigating against the harsh, icy conditions of Alaska. This tension-filled reality series brings viewers face-to-face with life-or-death survival situations, where the failure to hunt or fish can mean the end. Witness this captivating story of resilience, adaptation and survival against some of the most unforgiving conditions on Earth.
And there you have it: the most popular Reality TV shows available to watch now. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best TV content with DIRECTV.
For those who aren’t DIRECTV customers, make the switch today! Get all the best channels, shows, movies and more. And with four unique packages, there’s something for everyone.
And for more information on the top shows and movies to watch right now, check out these other lists:
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- Top 10 Comedy Shows on DIRECTV
- Top 10 Best Drama TV Shows to Watch Right Now
- The Top 10 Most Popular Game Shows to Watch Now
- The Top 10 Best Adult Cartoons to Watch Right Now
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of reality tv?
Dating/Love reality TV, Competition reality TV, Family reality TV, Lifestyle/Culture reality TV.
What is the longest running reality TV show?
Survivor
What TV networks have the best reality TV shows?
Bravo, TLC, MTV, History Channel
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