The best and worst reality shows of 2023

Caralynn Matassa,Callie Ahlgrim,Ayomikun Adekaiyero,Samantha Rollins,Palmer Haasch,Libby TorresJan 16, 2024, 02:23 IST

ABC/Brian Bowen Smith; Netflix; True Photography; Alyssa Powell/BI

Reality TV dominated a lot of pop culture conversation in 2023.
There were some highlights, like "Squid Game: The Challenge" and the very sweet "Golden Bachelor."

Oh reality TV, how we love to watch (and hate-watch) you.

In 2023, there was no shortage of options for folks looking for unscripted programming, whether it be of the low-brow or high-brow variety. And while it can feel like there are endless, near-identical reality dating shows out there, premieres like "The Golden Bachelor" and "The Ultimatum: Queer Love" proved that there are still fresh and important stories to tell in that genre.

New competition series also won over fans, like Netflix's smash hit "Squid Game: The Challenge" and "Physical: 100."

But not every reality show that aired in 2023 was a winner. The latest iteration of "Love Is Blind" felt like it could have been an email, and "MILF Manor" did not improve upon an utterly ridiculous — and very icky — premise.

Here's the Business Insider entertainment team's recap of the best and worst in reality TV last year.

Best: "Squid Game: The Challenge"

The reality show spinoff of "Squid Game" captivated viewers in 2023.Netflix

Best: "The Ultimatum: Queer Love"

Vanessa Papa in "The Ultimatum: Queer Love."Netflix

Best: "Vanderpump Rules" season 10

Rachel "Raquel" Leviss and Tom Sandoval's affair turned "Vanderpump Rules" season 10 on its head.Nicole Weingart/Bravo

Best: "Temptation Island" season 5

The "Temptation Island" season 5 reunion.USA Network

Best: "The Golden Bachelor"

Theresa Nist and Gerry Turner on "The Golden Bachelor."Disney/John Fleenor

Best: "Physical: 100"

In the semi-finals of "Physical: 100," contestants had to roll a boulder up a hill like Sisyphus in Greek mythology.Netflix

Best: "The Great British Baking Show" season 14

"The Great British Baking Show" continues to be the coziest thing on TV.Mark Bourdillon/Love Productions/Channel 4

Best: "The Traitors"

Alan Cumming was a delight as the host of "The Traitors."Euan Cherry/Peacock

Best: "Top Chef: World All-Stars"

The latest season of "Top Chef" was a perfect send-off to longtime host Padma Lakshmi.Fred Jagueneau/Bravo

Best: "Selling the OC" season 2

Tyler Stanaland and Alex Hall on "Selling the OC" season two. Netflix

Worst: "MILF Manor"

The titular MILFs of "MILF Manor."TLC

Worst: "Perfect Match"

This attempt at a Netflix crossover event was lackluster.Netflix

Worst: "Are You The One?" season 9

"Are You The One?" became a bad "Love Island" knockoff.Gerardo Valido/MTV Entertainment

Worst: "Love Is Blind" season 5

Season five of "Love Is Blind" could have been an email.Netflix

Worst: "Bachelor in Paradise" season 9

Aaron B. and Eliza were one of three "Bachelor in Paradise" final couples who announced they'd split within days of the finale airing.ABC/Craig Sjodin

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