The 18 best reality shows on Peacock

The Olympics are long over...back to reality (shows). Here are the ones on Peacock you need to be streaming.

Can’t get enough of the guilty-pleasure drama of Love Island USA? Do you crave the excitement of the Top Chef kitchen? We don’t blame you. Reality shows can be much-needed escapes from everyday life, transporting us into someone else’s shoes like no other genre can.

Although Peacock is one of the newer platforms, NBC’s streaming network is arguably doing reality TV better than many of its competitors, touting new favorites like The Traitors, legacy series like The Voice, and a wide range of Bravo’s top reality franchises.

Here are the best reality shows on Peacock right now.

America’s Got Talent (2006–present)

Fun for the whole family, America’s Got Talent is a competition series that takes on a variety show style, featuring an array of talented individuals, duos, and teams showing off their skills, be it singing, dancing, comedy, or other amazing feats. Host Terry Crews and judges Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara are along for the ride as performers of all ages compete for the show’s $1 million grand prize.

Not only does America’s Got Talent entertain with viral-worthy clips like contestant Richard Goodall’s jaw-dropping performance of “Don’t Stop Believin’,” but the show has a keen ability to tug at the heartstrings of both judges and viewers. Moments like Nightbirde’s emotional performance of an original song about her battle with cancer are as tear-jerking as they are inspiring. —Kirstie Renae

Where to watch America’s Got Talent: Peacock

Cast: Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, Terry Crews

Related: Simon Cowell left speechless and Howie Mandel choked up by America's Got Talent performance: 'You just broke us'

American Ninja Warrior (2009–present)

Whether you're an athlete or simply an admirer of incredible feats of strength and determination, there’s nothing like the competitors' abilities on American Ninja Warrior. Based on the Japanese television show Sasuke, this series features athletes from all over America as they tackle the world’s most difficult obstacle courses. Competitors compete in multiple qualifying rounds, each one harder than the last, in an effort to reach the finals, hit the buzzer at the top of the Mt. Midoriyama rope climb, and win a massive cash prize.

Not only does the reality series showcase people with amazing physical fitness, but it also dives deep into their personal stories and motivations. You can stream the excitement and emotion of every moment from season 16 on Peacock. —K.R.

Where to watch American Ninja Warrior: Peacock

Cast: Matt Iseman, Akbar Gbaja-Biamila, Zuri Hall

Related: Watch 10-year-olds absolutely dominate the American Ninja Warrior Junior course

Baking It (2021–2023)

This spinoff of the craft show Making It finds teams of two competing in numerous baking challenges. What helps this reality series stand out, however, is the colorful commentary by Maya Rudolph and Andy Samberg (Amy Poehler replaces Samberg in season 2) as well as the quartet of opinionated “grannies” who serve as judges. While the grans can be shockingly honest in their critiques, Baking It is mostly low-stakes fun, especially if you enjoy the comedic stylings of its hosts. —Kevin Jacobsen

Where to watch Baking It: Peacock

Cast: Maya Rudolph, Andy Samberg, Amy Poehler

Related: The 20 best cooking shows on Netflix

Below Deck (2013–present)

Have you ever wished you could sail away? Well, the crew members on Below Deck have, and they’ve made their dream a reality by becoming full-time employees on world-class yachts that travel around the globe. The catch? In exchange for making a living and enjoying the seaside views, they must deal with the unrealistic demands of their high-maintenance passengers and the interpersonal drama that goes down behind the scenes.

Below Deck gives viewers a glimpse of what life on the ocean is like, both for the crew and the wealthy patrons, making for a unique reality show filled with all the glitz and gossip you could want. —K.R.

Where to watch Below Deck: Peacock

Cast: Lee Rosbach, Kate Chastain, Eddie Lucas, Rachel Hargrove, Fraser Olender

Related: Amy Poehler wants to be a captain on Below Deck despite not knowing 'how to drive a boat'

Botched (2014–present)

This bonkers medical show sees surgeons-to-the-stars Dr. Terry Dubrow and Dr. Paul Nassif transform patients with unfortunate plastic surgery results into individuals with newfound confidence. One of the most unique features of Botched is the rotating door of subjects. Some episodes showcase people who are unhealthily obsessed with cosmetic procedures and are turned away by Dubrow and Nassif. Then there are the everyday individuals who are struggling with their appearance, either due to accidents, health issues, or, yes, botched plastic surgeries. Not for the squeamish, this series depicts real surgeries but it also draws viewers in with its riveting before-and-afters, heartfelt patient stories, and humorous doctor duo. —K.R.

Where to watch Botched: Peacock

Cast: Terry Dubrow, Paul Nassif

Related: 20 worst reality TV shows of all time (so far)

Deal or No Deal Island (2024–present)

Deal or No Deal Island takes the namesake 2000s-era game show and raises the stakes tenfold. Filmed on an island in Panama, contestants compete in physical challenges to secure briefcases containing high-dollar amounts, with low-placing players having to play “Deal or No Deal” against the mythical Banker. If they accept an offer from the Banker higher than what’s in their case, they get to eliminate another player; if it’s lower, they are eliminated. Essentially blending Deal or No Deal and Survivor, the Joe Manganiello-hosted series certainly scratches an itch for fans of both series. —K.J.

Where to watch Deal or No Deal Island: Peacock

Cast: Joe Manganiello

Related: Deal or No Deal Island cast includes Boston Rob and Claudia Jordan

Face Off (2011–2018)

How do makeup artists create such realistic looks and special effects for films and TV? Syfy’s Face Off shows viewers just that with a reality show that sees makeup and prosthetic experts compete in creating their most awe-inspiring work for a $100,000 prize. Hosted by actress Mackenzie Westmore, each challenge differs with contestants making themed looks ranging from extraterrestrial characters inspired by Star Trek to terrifying sea monsters. They have multiple days to bring their visions to life and are judged on creativity, aesthetics, and skill. On Face Off, the only limits are within the artists’ imaginations. —K.R.

Where to watch Face Off: Peacock

Cast: Glenn Hetrick, Ve Neill, Neville Page

Related: 25 movies with the best special effects

Hell’s Kitchen (2005–present)

Do not get on Gordon Ramsay’s bad side. Many poor souls have done so in Hell's Kitchen, the reality cooking competition in which a group of chefs vies for Ramsay's approval and the opportunity to become head chef at a fine dining restaurant. Contestants are split up into teams and tasked with cooking challenges and dinner services, with the losing team having to select two of their own for the chopping block, at which point Ramsay eliminates one of them. As the title implies, Hell's Kitchen is not for the faint of heart, with Ramsay's colorful insults demonstrating that if you can't stand the heat, it's best to get out of the kitchen. —K.J.

Where to watch Hell’s Kitchen: Peacock

Cast: Gordon Ramsay

Related: Gordon Ramsay reveals his favorite Hell's Kitchen insults

Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List (2005–2010)

Amid the glut of artificial celeb-reality shows in the mid-2000s, Kathy Griffin’s hilariously unfiltered look into her life as a self-professed D-list celebrity was an oasis. Through six seasons, the comedian tries to climb out of Hollywood’s lower rank through stand-up shows and public appearances, with a tenacious yet snarky spirit that makes her endlessly watchable. While some of Griffin’s jokes may be a product of their time, My Life on the D-List is, all the same, a fascinating snapshot of early aughts celebrity culture in all its chaotic messiness. —K.J.

Where to watch Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List: Peacock

Cast: Kathy Griffin, Matt Moline, John Griffin, Maggie Griffin, Jessica Zajicek, Tiffany Rinehart, Tom Vize

Related: 14 of our favorite female comedians

Keeping Up With the Kardashians (2007–2021)

If there’s one reality show that hovers above the rest both in popularity and impact, Keeping Up With the Kardashians might be it. Often dubbed “the series that started it all” in reference to the Kardashian/Jenner dynasty we know and love (or love to hate), the program skyrocketed Kim, Kourtney, and Khloe Kardashian as well as Kris, Kendall, and Kylie Jenner to superstardom.

After calling Hulu home for many years, the show has now moved all 20 seasons to Peacock, meaning fans of the controversial family can stream every episode and relive the most iconic moments, from the infamous leaking of Kim’s sex tape, to Caitlyn Jenner’s transition, to the dissolution of Kim’s marriage to Kanye West. —K.R.

Where to watch Keeping Up With the Kardashians: Peacock

Cast: Kris Jenner, Caitlyn Jenner, Kourtney Kardashian, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Rob Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, Scott Disick

Related: Keeping Up With the Kardashians says goodbye: A behind-the-scenes look at one of the biggest reality shows ever

Love Island USA (2019–present)

For reality fans who prefer a little romance with their competition shows, a must-watch on Peacock is Love Island USA. America’s take on the hit U.K. dating series features sexy singles at a tropical villa competing for connection and $100,000. The so-called “islanders” must find a partner and last until the end of the season to win the grand prize, but their love must stand up against challenges like recouplings, surprise eliminations, and temptations at Casa Amour — a second villa that hopes to pry couples apart in pursuit of juicy television.

Fans love the show for its unique format, competitive edge, and, of course, the inordinately attractive cast. Whether you’re in it for love triangles, real romance, or broken hearts, Ariana Madix guides you through the show’s sixth season. —K.R.

Where to watch Love Island USA: Peacock

Cast: Ariana Madix

Related: Love Island USA: Meet the singles of season 6

Project Runway (2004–present)

Project Runway has “made it work” for 20 seasons and counting, winning multiple Emmys and a Peabody over the years. The reality show centers on fashion designers from all walks of life who are tasked with crafting creative, eye-catching clothing under a time crunch. Expert judges then critique their designs and select contestants to be eliminated one by one until a winner is crowned and given a six-figure grand prize to kickstart their careers. Premiering in 2004, Project Runway was instrumental in ushering in a new style of reality competition based on skill rather than duplicity and cynicism. —K.J.

Where to watch Project Runway: Peacock

Cast: Heidi Klum, Tim Gunn, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors, Zac Posen, Rachel Roy, Karlie Kloss, Brandon Maxwell, Christian Siriano, Elaine Welteroth

Related: Project Runway cast: Where are they now?

The Real Housewives franchise (2006–present)

If you’re looking for a reality franchise with endless content, look no further than Peacock’s wide selection of The Real Housewives shows. From the one that started it all (Orange County) to the latest in the bunch (Dubai), Peacock has a whopping 11 series available to stream. We thank you, Andy Cohen. The Bravo franchise documents the lavish lives of some of the richest people in the world, but in addition to giving viewers a glimpse into the high life, the shows also showcase the dramatic, the headline-making, and the ugly — a combination that makes The Real Housewives a must-see for any true reality TV aficionado.

If you’ve never watched any of the Housewives, we recommend starting with the OG Orange County, which features housewives like Tamra Judge, Heather Dubrow, and Shannon Storms Beador. To catch up on some of the franchise’s most iconic moments like Teresa Giudice’s angry table flip, Sheree Whitfield’s fight with her divorce party planner, and the infamous drama between Kim Richards and Lisa Rinna in Amsterdam, check out The Real Housewives of New Jersey, Atlanta, and Beverly Hills, respectively. —K.R.

Where to watch The Real Housewives: Peacock

Related: Jennifer Tilly says doing The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is 'scarier than Chucky'

Southern Charm (2014–present)

Southern aristocracy gets a modern spin in Southern Charm, a reality show set in Charleston, S.C., that follows socialites like Craig Conover, Shep Rose, and Kathryn Dennis (to name a few) as they navigate life, work, and love. However, unlike similar programs, these folks have to stay true to their Southern roots and family names, a difficult feat in today’s modern world. The show has been so successful it inspired a variety of spinoffs, including Southern Charm: Savannah, Southern Charm: New Orleans, and Southern Hospitality, all of which you can also stream on Peacock. —K.R.

Where to watch Southern Charm: Peacock

Cast: Craig Conover, Cameran Eubanks, Jenna King, Thomas Ravenel, Shep Rose, Whitney Sudler-Smith, Landon Clements, Kathryn Dennis, Austen Kroll

Related: The View EP addresses Southern Charm star Cameran Eubanks' bid for Alyssa Farah Griffin's cohost seat

Top Chef (2006–present)

For reality fans who skew more culinary, there is no better binge-watch than Top Chef, the series where chefs compete in a high-stakes cook-off. Competitors are judged by some of the culinary world’s greatest chefs, experts, and entrepreneurs as they create unique and delicious dishes. Top Chef has proven to be star-making, helping chefs like Carla Hall, Richard Blais, and Antonia Lofaso become household names. With more than 20 seasons on Peacock, there is an endless amount of intense competition, moving stories, and culinary inspiration available to stream. —K.R.

Where to watch Top Chef: Peacock

Cast: Padma Lakshmi, Tom Colicchio, Kristen Kish

Related: Meet the chefs shaking things up on Top Chef season 21

The Traitors (2023–present)

Few modern reality-competition shows have become required viewing as quickly as The Traitors, adapted from the Dutch series De Verraders. Hosted with wicked glee by Alan Cumming, the Emmy-winning series features contestants living in a Scottish estate where a group has been pre-selected as “traitors,” who assemble each night to banish one player from the game. The other players, dubbed “faithfuls,” are tasked with rooting out the traitors using social strategy. If the faithfuls successfully banish every traitor, they win the prize money, but if any traitors are left in the end undetected, they win the money.

The second season, which casts former reality TV stars like Survivor veteran Parvati Shallow and Real Housewives star Phaedra Parks, is riveting from start to finish. —K.J.

Where to watch The Traitors: Peacock

Cast: Alan Cumming

Related: The Traitors season 3 cast includes Survivor and Big Brother legends — and Britney Spears' ex!

Vanderpump Rules (2013–present)

This spinoff of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills follows the turbulent lives of entrepreneur Lisa Vanderpump and the employees at her various restaurants, bars, and clubs. Vanderpump Rules features all the petty drama of Real Housewives with a messy cast of (very flawed) characters who make plenty of mistakes and get into more than their fair share of conflict. The series received a huge boost in 2023 when bartender Tom Sandoval was caught cheating on his long-term girlfriend Ariana Madix with her friend Raquel Leviss, a scandal the media dubbed “Scandoval.” —K.J.

Where to watch Vanderpump Rules: Peacock

Cast: Lisa Vanderpump, Scheana Shay, Katie Maloney, Tom Sandoval, Kristen Doute, Jax Taylor, Stassi Schroeder, Tom Schwartz, Ariana Madix, James Kennedy

Related: Tom Sandoval suing Ariana Madix for leaking sexy FaceTime he had with Rachel Leviss — who's also suing him

The Voice (2011–present)

The Voice is NBC's Emmy-winning singing competition show that’s unlike any other. Celebrity coaches select singers to mentor during a now-iconic blind audition process in which they only hear their voices. Once drafted to a celebrity coach’s team, singers compete in multiple rounds and live performances in hopes of winning a massive cash prize and a recording contract.

Viral moments like the band Girl Named Tom earning a rare four-chair turn during the blind auditions in season 21 are just the start of what makes the show great. Viewers not only enjoy hearing the stellar performances and heartwarming stories of the hopeful vocalists but also seeing music’s most successful stars passing on invaluable insight and mentorship. —K.R.

Where to watch The Voice: Peacock

Cast: Carson Daly, John Legend, Dan + Shay, Chance the Rapper, Reba McEntire

Related: Watch new Voice coaches Snoop Dogg and Michael Bublé perform with Gwen Stefani and Reba McEntire for first time

Read the original article on Entertainment Weekly.