The 10 Best Reality TV Shows of 2025, Ranked
ABC; CBS; Peacock
Reality TV may not always be the most realistic, but it's definitely addictive. While some shows focus on cutthroat gameplay and vicious arguments, others offer cozy vibes and low-stakes entertainment. Here's our ranking of the 10 best reality shows of 2025, with a mix of both styles. But first, let's address the elephant in the room: Are reality shows really that compelling? Yes, they are! And if you need proof, just look at our list. We've got a little something for everyone, from baking competitions to soccer documentaries, and even a show about... well, let's just say it's a bit controversial. So, grab your popcorn, and let's dive into the world of reality TV.
- The Great British Baking Show (Netflix)
Like a beloved dessert from Mom's recipe book, we love indulging in this sweet slice of TV comfort food every autumn. Netflix's endlessly warm and charming U.K. baking competition knows it has a recipe that works, so thankfully, they don't tinker with it too much. The amateur bakers are always a colorful bunch of eccentrics, and the delectable creations are a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond add a dash of silly humor, while judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith keep it real and encourage the bakers to reach their full potential. A cozy delight that never disappoints, we'd give this show a Hollywood handshake if we could.
- Welcome to Wrexham (FX)
FX
It was a case of mo' victories, mo' problems for the Wrexham AFC football club in Season 4 of FX's crowd-pleasing soccer documentary. The scrappy underdogs fought their way up to the more prestigious League One, which meant owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac needed to shell out more cash to compete with rival owner Tom Brady. But the heart of 'Wrexham' has always been in the town itself and its fiercely loyal fanbase, and that remained true in Season 4, especially with a tear-jerking farewell to elderly Wrexham fan Arthur Massey. The victories on the pitch were thrilling, but it's the small victories away from the pitch that make 'Wrexham' truly special.
- Big Brother (CBS)
CBS
Take one look at the above photo from the 'Big Brother' finale, and tell us you're not curious about what went down in Season 27. The season-opening Mastermind twist started strong but petered out later, and we're still not ready to forgive the show for reducing Rachel Reilly's terrific gameplay to a random backyard competition. However, the CBS series managed to course-correct in the final weeks, thanks to Morgan and Vince's way-too-close-for-comfort partnership. It was bizarre, morally ambiguous, and we couldn't look away. Add in Ashley's underdog victory and a surprisingly satisfying conclusion to the Mastermind arc, and you've got a 'Big Brother' season that stuck the landing against all odds.
- Married to Medicine (Bravo)
Derek White/Bravo
The women of 'Married to Medicine' did so much in 2025: They channeled Beyoncé in a glamorous 'Cowboy Carter'-themed photoshoot; Toya threw a baby shower for her beloved Birkin bag; Dr. Heavenly blindsided Phaedra by inviting her ex-husband to the couples trip; and Dr. Jackie met with former Vice President Kamala Harris for a conference on women's health. 'Married to Medicine' isn't like other reality shows; it's founded on real friendship and a commitment to public service, leading to unique conflict and personal storylines. While it may not be part of Bravo's mega-popular 'Real Housewives' universe, it's a powerhouse in its own right, full of personalities who bring laughter, tea, and vulnerability to our screens.
- Survivor (CBS)
CBS
Twenty-five years and soon-to-be 50 seasons later, Jeff Probst and his team are still producing reality TV that's both engaging and real. From potentially life-threatening venomous snake bites to the Joe and Eva moment highlighting a young woman's autism story, no show in the genre delivers moments this heartfelt and genuine. The CBS staple is fearless in its approach to change. While not all its attempts hit the mark, you don't stay on the air for 25 years without trying new things and adapting. The new era may have changed the game, but with solid casting, rapid-fire gameplay, and worthy recent winners, we're eagerly anticipating 'Survivor 50'.
- Love Island USA (Peacock)
Peacock
Peacock's addictive summer dating show has been on a hot streak since bringing in 'Vanderpump Rules' alum Ariana Madix as host, and that streak continued with this year's sizzling edition. It gave us big laughs, shocking twists, and one toxic pairing that may need to decontaminate the villa before the next cast arrives. While Jeremiah and Huda deserve a spot in the Hall of Fame for terrible reality TV couples, this season also gave us dream meme couple #Nicolandria and giggly fan favorite Amaya Papaya, along with countless one-liners and surprise hookups. A fresh crop of islanders is always around the corner.
- Love on the Spectrum (Netflix)
Netflix
'Love on the Spectrum' always makes us feel all the feels as we follow a cluster of memorable characters on the autism spectrum searching for love. Season 3 was especially full of high points, making it an obvious pick for one of the year's top reality shows. Connor found his 'demigoddess'; Abby celebrated her longtime boyfriend David with a sweet original song; Dani leveraged her love for animation to stage an honest conversation about intimacy; and Tanner continued to embark on dates with positivity and optimism. The show made us laugh, cry, and feel more hopeful about love, all while avoiding feeling exploitative or scripted.
- The Traitors (Peacock)
Peacock
'The Traitors' is just as electric as it's always been, thanks to its astute casting that covers all bases, from Bravo Housewives to CBS reality stars, Olympians, comedians, and more. The characters are ready to play, delivering juicy moments that accentuate the game's highly addictive premise. Last year saw two former 'Survivor' players, a 'Big Brother' legend, and a 'RuPaul's Drag Race' winner, and boy, did they tear each other to pieces. But let's not forget Alan Cumming, whose Shakespearean hosting style is both high theater and high camp. The series may only have three full seasons, but Cumming's castle has quickly stolen the reality TV limelight.
- The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City (Bravo)
Bravo
Now considered the Bravo gold standard, 'The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City' has consistently raised its own bar every season, and 2025 was no exception. From Lisa's viral nickname for Bronwyn to the non-stop drama of the 'Below Deck Down Under' crossover, the show kept us well-fed all year. The fans of this top-tier reality extravaganza always show up hungry, and the ladies kept us well-fed with incredible gifts and unforgettable moments.
- Dancing With the Stars (ABC)
Eric McCandless/Disney
'Dancing With the Stars' has been a reliable ratings winner for ABC for years, but 2025 saw a renaissance for the show. It's been years since 'DWTS' gave us such a competitive season, with everyone in the Top 7 making a convincing case for the Mirrorball, including comedian Andy Richter. Season 34 had everything you could want: shocking eliminations, behind-the-scenes controversy, underdogs in the finale, impassioned voting, and a wonderfully full-circle moment for Robert Irwin. When it comes to scoring this season of 'DWTS,' the 10 paddle is all we need.
