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 The Real Housewives of New Jersey, 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’
↔ 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’
↔ 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. ‘Ridiculousness’
↔ vs. Prior Week
In the hilarious series Ridiculousness, join Rob Dyrdek, Chanel West Coast and Sterling Steelo Brim as they breakdown the most outrageous, funny and extreme internet videos. Whether you enjoy epic fails, funny animal encounters or unbelievable viral videos, Ridiculousness will keep you chuckling and wondering, what could possibly happen next? Think of it like America’s Funniest Home Video taken to another level.
5. ‘Hot Bench’
↑ 1 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.
6. ‘Judy Justice’
↑ 2 vs. Prior Week
Judy Justice (2021) sees television’s beloved judge, Judy Sheindlin, as she swings her gavel in a brand-new court. Still equipped with her signature razor-sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, Sheindlin lays down the law once more, offering justice where it’s long overdue. Accompanied by a fresh, energetic team including a law clerk and a stenographer, this new show promises more fiery exchanges and legal drama. Tune in to Judy Justice for relentless pursuit of truth, high-stakes verdicts, and a sneak peek into the workings of Judge Judy’s court.
7. ‘Pawn Stars’
↓ 2 vs. Prior Week
Step into the fascinating world of pawn brokering with the hit reality show, Pawn Stars. Based in the heart of Las Vegas, the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop isn’t just your average pawn store. Ranging from vintage cars to historical artifacts, each item has a story, and it’s up to Rick Harrison, his son Corey Big Hoss, and Corey’s childhood friend, Chumlee, to determine its worth. With their sharp negotiation skills and depth of knowledge on obscure historical trivia, watch the Harrisons navigate through a myriad of quirky customers and unusual items in this intriguing blend of history, commerce and family dynamics.
8. ‘Shark Tank’
↓ 4 vs. Prior Week
Embark on a journey of entrepreneurship with Shark Tank, a captivating show that provides a platform for aspiring innovators to pitch their ideas to five industry magnates. This unique reality television series features a panel of experienced and successful entrepreneurs who have made a mark in their respective sectors.
Every episode is a tale of ambition, innovation and resilience as participants strive to convince these industry sharks to invest in their dreams. Root for your favorite innovators, watch nerve-racking negotiations unfold and learn about the industry’s cutthroat nature, all on Shark Tank.
9. ‘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.
10. ‘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.
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:
- Top 20 Movies to Stream Right Now
- 20 Most Binge-Worthy TV Shows to Watch Right Now
- 10 Best Limited Series to Watch
- 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
- Top Travel Shows to Curb Your Wanderlust
- Top Singing Shows to Sing Along to
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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