Since its inception in 1981, MTV has evolved from a music video network to a powerhouse of original content, including some of the most iconic reality shows in television history. From dating shows to docu-series, MTV has provided us with a diverse range of reality TV. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the 10 best reality shows in MTV history.
10. My Super Sweet 16: A Teenage Dream
My Super Sweet 16 was the epitome of teenage extravagance in the mid-2000s. Showcasing lavish 16th birthday parties, often for celebrity offspring, the series left viewers envious of the star-studded musical guests and luxury cars gifted to the birthday celebrants.
9. 8th and Ocean: A Glimpse into the Modeling World
Though short-lived, 8th and Ocean had the potential for a lasting legacy. The series followed a group of models signed to Irene Marie Models, living together in a Miami house. With an attractive cast and plenty of drama, it’s surprising the show didn’t get renewed.
8. Taking the Stage: High School Pressure and Artistic Dreams
Taking the Stage aired from 2009 to 2010, set at the School for Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati. The cast, comprised of students pursuing various artistic disciplines, faced the typical high school pressures along with the added stress of chasing their dreams in the arts.
7. Catfish: Uncovering Online Deception
Catfish remains one of MTV’s most popular shows. Hosts Nev Schulman and Kamie Crawford help individuals meet their online love interests, often revealing that the person they’ve been talking to isn’t who they claim to be. Despite debates about the show’s authenticity, Catfish continues to captivate audiences with its unbelievable plot twists.
6. The Hills/Laguna Beach: SoCal Drama
Laguna Beach and The Hills may be separate shows, but their shared cast members and focus on wealthy young adults in southern California make them inseparable. Laguna Beach aired from 2004 to 2006, followed by The Hills from 2006 to 2010, both capturing the drama and glamour of SoCal life.
5. Jersey Shore: A Cultural Phenomenon
Jersey Shore is synonymous with MTV reality TV. Debuting in 2009, the show introduced us to some of the most memorable reality stars of the decade. From bar fights to drunken antics, Jersey Shore was a wild ride that led to its revival in 2018 as Jersey Shore: Family Vacation.
4. Teen Mom: Growing Up in the Spotlight
It’s hard to believe that the Teen Mom franchise has been around for over a decade. With four spinoffs in the US and international adaptations, we’ve watched our favorite 16 and Pregnant stars (and their children) grow up and forge their own paths.
3. Road Rules: Pioneering Adventure Reality TV
Road Rules challenged participants to live in a cramped RV with strangers, embarking on a task-filled road trip. For over a decade, this popular MTV reality show was one of the network’s first, paving the way for future adventure-based reality series.
2. True Life: Sharing Personal Stories
True Life offered viewers a unique opportunity to see the world through others’ eyes. Covering topics like addiction, abuse, and sexuality, the series featured individuals sharing their personal stories. Though it aired its final episode in 2017, many fans hope for a revival of this groundbreaking show.
1. The Real World: The Ultimate Reality Show
The Real World is not only MTV’s best reality show but also one of the greatest reality shows of all time. Premiering in 1992, the series followed seven strangers living together in a house, providing insight into the lives of young people from diverse backgrounds. Groundbreaking and immensely popular, The Real World remains a reality TV classic.
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