From "Catfish" to "90-Day Fiancé": America's Top Reality Shows Revealed

From “Catfish” to “90-Day Fiancé”: America’s Top Reality Shows Revealed

Posted by author September 1, 2024 Entertainment

Young shocked woman watching TV movie and eating popcorn at night.

A woman watching TV with popcorn (© Drazen – stock.adobe.com)

NEW YORK — The golden buzzer has spoken — “America’s Got Talent” has been crowned America’s favorite reality TV show, according to a new survey. The recent poll of 2,000 U.S. reality TV fans revealed that Americans are not just casual viewers but devoted enthusiasts, with the average person watching a staggering 10 hours of reality TV each week.

The survey, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of JaM Cellars, makers of Butter wines, offers a fascinating glimpse into the viewing habits of Americans across four generations. The results paint a picture of a country where reality TV has become a daily ritual for many, with 31% of respondents admitting to tuning in every single day.

Talent Takes the Top Spot

“America’s Got Talent” claimed the top spot as the nation’s favorite reality show, with 42% of viewers ranking it as their preferred program. Hot on its heels was “American Idol” at 33%, followed by “Family Feud” (31%), “Catfish” (29%), and the “90-Day Fiancé” series rounding out the top five.

While some shows appeal across age groups, others have found their niche among specific generations. Gen Z viewers are particularly drawn to shows like “Impractical Jokers” (32%), “60 Days In” (31%), and “1,000 lb Sisters” (30%). Surprisingly, baby boomers show a slight edge over younger viewers when it comes to romantic reality shows, with 20% tuning into “The Bachelor” and 21% watching “The Bachelorette.”

The Binge-Watching Phenomenon

The survey revealed that 64% of respondents prefer to binge-watch entire seasons rather than wait for weekly episodes. This trend is reflected in viewing habits, with 59% opting to stream content rather than watch live on cable.

“Apparently America’s favorite reality TV viewing experience is to tune into ‘America’s Got Talent’, get the girls over for a watch party, pour some wine and binge watch a season (or two). I think this finding speaks to this genre of shows that have become such a cultural and social phenomenon that we enjoy sharing with each other—and making it an every-day special occasion with food and a glass of wine,” says Michele Truchard, Co-Founder of JaM Cellars, in a statement.

Wine and Reality TV: A Perfect Pairing

The survey, which polled Americans 21 and over, found that 52% of viewers are likely to sip on a glass of wine while catching up on their favorite reality shows. Red wine varieties emerged as the top choice across different reality TV genres, with 45% of viewers pairing it with documentary-style shows like “Big Brother” or “The Kardashians.”

“It’s so interesting to see different reality TV watchers choose their favorite wines to watch with. Each show has its own personality, mood and occasion and wine has that same versatility. There really is a reality TV ‘me-time’ moment for everyone—whether that’s a glass of Chardonnay with reality favorite America’s Got Talent, Sauv Blanc with Amazing Race or maybe sipping Pinot Noir to The Kardashians. Whichever is your favorite, there’s something for everyone,” Truchard adds.

Drinking wine while watching television — 52% of viewers are likely to sip on a glass of wine while catching up on their favorite reality shows. (Credit: cottonbro from Pexels)

For many, reality TV is a social experience. The survey found that 59% of female respondents are likely to include reality TV viewing in a “girls night in.” Additionally, 39% of viewers host watch parties, complete with snacks and beverages. The most popular watch party essentials include soda (67%), chips and dip (64%), finger foods (53%), and wine (48%).

As reality TV continues to dominate American entertainment, it’s clear that these shows offer more than just a passive viewing experience. They’ve become a cultural touchstone, bringing people together and providing a shared experience that resonates across generations. Whether it’s the thrill of discovering new talent, the drama of interpersonal relationships, or simply the joy of escaping into someone else’s reality, America’s love affair with reality TV shows no signs of fading.

Survey methodology:

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 reality TV fans, ages 21+ split evenly by generation (500 Gen Z, 500 millennials, 500 Gen X and 500 baby boomers); the survey was commissioned by JaM Cellars and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between July 23 and July 30, 2024.