Even “normal” reality shows are weird. But these are not normal reality shows.
Superstar USA (2004, The WB)
Contestants on this show were told that they were in a singing competition, but they were actually being judged for their lack of singing ability. The show’s producers also told the live audience that the singers were terminally ill patients who were getting their last wishes fulfilled by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The “winner,” a tone-deaf woman named Jamie Foss, won $50,000.
This derivation of The Bachelor featured a woman choosing from a series of men. The twist was that she could judge potential mates only on their personalities—because all the men wore gruesome masks. The show was hosted by Monica Lewinsky (famous for her scandalous relationship with President Bill Clinton).
Another Bachelor variation, this show asked single people to pick partners based on personality instead of looks, but it upped the ante even more: They had to choose each other entirely in the dark. The show was shot with night-vision cameras, allowing viewers to watch the contestants not only flirt, but also bump into walls and each other.
Four American adult-film stars attempted to become legitimate actresses by performing scenes from classic musicals (including My Fair Lady) alongside British theater actors.
Contestants from other reality shows competed on this reality show to win a contract to star in another reality show. It aired on the Fox Reality Channel, a short-lived network that showed only reality shows. Really.
Biggest complaint of office workers: The office is too cold. Second biggest: The office is too hot.