No one ever thinks of the viewers who poured their lives into committing to reality TV shows. But after a network cancels a beloved show and the dust settles, fans are left with no other option but to move on. Sometimes, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and a long-lost series is revived. But that isn’t always the case. So, if I had five wishes, these are the shows I would love to see back on my small screen. Here are some canceled reality shows that should make a comeback.
Rock of Love: I had such a crush on Bret Michaels
Bret Michaels of Poison first starred in VH1’s Rock of Love in 2007, and it was total trash. The lead singer of the heavy metal band strolled in with his iconic bandanna, claiming to be looking for love. The network forgot to mention that he still very much had his long-term girlfriend in the wings. But groupies from all over came to Los Angeles to try to win his heart. Honestly, I am surprised we didn’t see Shannon Beador cast since she was such a huge fan. The series was more entertaining than it had a right to be. Bret would talk about his experiences with diabetes and living a rock and roll lifestyle.
But more importantly, the man was funny. And he knew crazy when it tried to kiss him. Rock of Love was the dating show anyone and everyone could watch. The VH1 series encapsulated a simpler time in television when seemingly anyone could get their own creatively named TV show. But Bret quickly learned that every rose has its thorn. I’m not ashamed to say I watched this show religiously and even had a 22nd birthday Rock of Love theme party. Rock of Love is currently streaming on Peacock if you feel like binging.
Jersey Shore: “I’m going to the Jersey Shore, b*tch!”
I know as a Jersey Girl I should really, really hate MTV’s Jersey Shore. But I just can’t. The series was lightning in a bottle and showed my beloved summer haunt as it truly was: a hot mess. When the original show premiered in 2009-2012, it was everything millennials were looking for. Most of us were recent college graduates and partaking in a summer share house of our own. What made Jersey Shore so special was that the cast felt like a family. The cast became like family to viewers between the incestuous hookups, bar fights, and real-life lessons.
Even though there has been a successful spinoff, I’d love to see a reboot hit the network. A true revival could take the show, with a brand new cast, back to its roots, complete with the duck phone and T-shirt store. Who doesn’t love a little bit of nostalgia? If you feel like catching up, episodes can be found on MTV.
What really happened on What Happens at the Abbey?
In 2017, E! came out with a show entitled What Happens at the Abbey? The vibe was very much a Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules feel complete with a manager, hot waitstaff, and plenty of drama. This LA-based bartending show had a twist as it took place at the famous West Hollywood gay bar. To be honest, the show was kind of great, perhaps the best on the list. It proudly represented the LBGTQ community and showcased their cast outside lives. I’d argue it was a slight step up from Vanderpump Rules. In fact, The Abbey played a major role in Scandoval, where Tom Sandoval and Rachel Leviss were first spotted flirting.
What Not to Wear: I’d love to know What Not to Wear
On days like these, when the mirror judges me, I need Stacy London and Clinton Kelly to show me What Not To Wear. At first, these two fashionistas were initially a bit pushy and off the mark, but their transformations were incredible. The TLC show loved to ambush a fashion felon who their loved ones had nominated. In turn, the duo would offer that lucky winner $5,000 to buy a new wardrobe. The only catch was that the participant had to throw out their current wardrobe. Oh, the drama! In 2003, when the show premiered, the fashion was questionable, but these two made viewers want to dress better. As I look around 2024, I think that the public could once again use Stacy and Clinton’s snarky remarks to help us step up our fashion game.
Gene Simmons Family Jewels: Fans wanted to Rock N Roll all night with the Simmons family
I had actually forgotten that Gene Simmons and A&E created a show called Gene Simmons’ Family Jewels. This non-traditional traditional family was the answer to the Osbournes. The Simmons’ were cleaner cut and had way less cursing, making the series a perfect family show. Cameras showed Gene married to his Playboy wife, Shannon Tweed, and their two children, Sophie and Nick. I love getting a sneak peek of Gene’s life. It didn’t hurt that the entire family could have been comedians and every week, fans kept tuning in for something new. Even though the show ended in 2012, it still lives on in Amazon streaming and A&E reruns.
TELL US – WHICH SHOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE COME BACK?
