Reality dating shows have increased in popularity in the last decade. The genre has become more competitive as streaming services like Netflix and Peacock have begun releasing their own unscripted programming. Now that the genre has become crowded, it can be hard to keep track of all the new shows. If you need some help, we have you covered.
Here are the Best Reality Dating Shows of 2024:
Love Island USA – Season 6
Love Island USA stole reality TV fans’ hearts this summer. The series, a spinoff of the original UK version, was a slow burn. The first few seasons paled in comparison to the OG version and it struggled to break into the mainstream. Season 6 finally got people talking. The all-star cast and constant stream of drama helped make the show a mega success.
The cast had undeniable chemistry. Not only were the romantic connections plentiful but the friendships were like nothing we’ve seen before. Host Ariana Madix told The Washington Post that the female friendships in the Villa made the show stronger.
“That [closeness] makes the stakes high when you’re watching dramatic moments, or if a recoupling is happening, and you’re not sure who’s going home, it really matters to everyone there,” she said. “I think that feeling translates to the audience feeling like all of these things really matter when you’re watching them.”
There is no denying that this cast’s popularity soared above previous Islanders. To prove this point, look no further than their Instagram followings. Season 6 winner Serena Page currently has 1.3 million followers, while Season 5 winner Hannah Wright stands at 213 thousand. Serena isn’t the only Season 6 Islander who has amassed an impressive following, Fan favorite Leah Kateb has 2.6 million followers and JaNa Craig isn’t too far behind with 1.2 million.
The show’s transition to Peacock may also be responsible for its increased popularity. The move gave the show permission to be raunchier, away from the watchful eye of network television. I think we would’ve enjoyed Season 6 less if Kaylor Martin wasn’t yelling, “F*CK AARON,” every five minutes.
Love Is Blind – Season 6
Season 6 of Love is Blind premiered in February 2024 and it didn’t disappoint. The Netflix series always manages to find the perfect balance of genuine people and fame-thirsty troublemakers and it’s honestly impressive. The online content surrounding the show was plentiful, from debates about whether Chelsea Blackwell resembled Megan Fox to fans engaging in investigative reporting to decipher which couples were still together.
Perfect Match – Season 2
Season 2 of Netflix’s Perfect Match was a hot mess but we still loved it. I guess that’s what happens when you put a bunch of hot, emotionally unavailable people in a Villa together. It had all the ingredients of a perfect reality TV show. There was lying, gaslighting, and too many breakups to count.
The Bachelor – Season 28
The Bachelor has long been regarded as the best reality dating show. After all, it’s been on the air since 2002. However, the once-beloved series has faltered in recent years. According to Forbes, viewership has been steadily declining since Season 17, “with the exception of Season 23.” The genre has become crowded and the franchise has lost control of the market it once dominated. The show appeared to be in trouble after Zach Shallcross’s season struggled to entice fans but Season 28 turned it around. Bachelor Joey Graziadei was the first swoon-worthy leading man the franchise has had in years and viewers tuned in to look at his pretty face.
Too Hot to Handle – Season 6
Season 6 of Too Hot to Handle premiered on Netflix on Friday, July 19. The new season has been out for two weeks but it’s already generated a lot of internet buzz. The new cast is hot, messy, and not afraid to break the rules. This season also featured some unique twists that made life in the Villa more challenging for the Singles. All ten episodes are currently available on Netflix. Run don’t walk to check out the new season! You won’t be disappointed.
TELL US – DO YOU AGREE WITH OUR LIST? WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DATING SHOW OF 2024?
