As MTV adds the hit series Floribama Shore to their list of cancellations, the network has seen its fair share of popular series leaving the platform over the years. The network launched in 1981 as the best place to watch original series, the newest music videos, and reality TV.
As the years passed, the network became a haven for hit reality series from Laguna Beach to Jersey Shore. Although these series’ and many more saw the end to their reign after a few seasons, this hasn’t stopped them from being classified as classic reality TV. With this being the case, many of these classic series are available to watch on Paramount+.
The Real World (1992-2019)
Still one the most prolific franchises on MTV, The Real World premiered on the network in 1998 and went on to have 33 seasons and 619 episodes. From places like Paris, London, California, and Hawaii, the series brought together seven strangers to live under the same roof and experience life together. The series has started the careers of some pretty familiar faces including Jamie Chung, Karamo Brown, Cameran Banks, who have gone on to make a name for themselves in the entertainment industry.
Fans of the series can catch every episode and season on Paramount+. As well as this, the series is currently in development to have future seasons of the show showcased on the streaming platform.
My Super Sweet 16 (2005-2017)
Many people see a teens’ 16th birthday as a coming of age celebration and every teen and their parent in the series My Super Sweet 16, are one of these individuals. From luxurious cars to the most expensive venues and invitations, My Super Sweet 16 showcased some of the most extravagant 16th birthday parties from kids with wealthy parents.
From popular faces like Teyana Taylor, Aly and AJ, and Chris Brown, the MTV series provided surprise appearances after surprise appearances. It became a series that made it hard for every teen and young adult to look away from and should be considered one of the best MTV reality shows on the network, with every episode now available on Paramount+.
Run’s House (2005-2009)
A rapper and hip-hop legend, Rev. Run decided to showcase his life as a family man and man of god in the series, Run’s House, released in 2005. The show covered every aspect of the Simmons’ lives from everyday life to the exploration of their professional careers.
From funny segments to tragic moments shown to viewers, the Simmons family showcased every aspect of their lives from the happy to the sad times. Because of this, viewers were able to see that they were like any other family outside the spotlight. Their amazing family dynamic can be watched on Paramount+ with all 6 seasons showing on the streaming network.
True Life (1998-2017)
An American reality and documentary series released in 1998, True Life followed the lives of everyday people facing addictions, family and relationship problems, soldiers returning home, and phobias. The series followed everything from drug addiction to obsessive eating habits, offering the viewers a first-person look into the lives of those living with these vices in society.
True Life not only gained popularity with viewers, it was also awarded multiple awards for its journalism and documentary-style episodes. The series has a total of 21 seasons and 369 episodes total. These seasons and episodes are available to watch on Paramount+.
Jersey Shore (2009-2012)
The series that brought guidos and guidettes to MTV, Jersey Shore will remain one of the funniest MTV reality TV shows of all time. From the funny quotes to the relationship drama of Sam and Ronny, the series never lacked in entertainment. The series first premiered on the MTV network in 2009 and continued to air until it ended in 2012.
However, this wasn’t the end for the cast with them going on to have multiple spin-off from Snooki & JWow, Floribama Shore, and Jersey Shore:Family Vacation. Currently, fans can catch the popular series on Paramount+, along with the rest of its spin-offs listed above.
16 and Pregnant (2009-2014)
The series that started one of the most popular franchises in MTV history, 16 and Pregnant signaled the beginning of the Teen Mom franchise. Following the lives of pregnant teenagers as they navigate their way through high school and the responsibility of becoming new parents, the series was a surprising hit among young viewers.
The series sought to not only showcase the lives of these teens but also advocate safe sex practices. With the success of the series, MTV went on to develop and premiere the now popular spin-off Teen Mom on the network. Both of these classic series can be found on Paramount+ to binge and enjoy.
The Challenge (1998-Present)
Still considered one of the best classics on MTV after many years on the air, The Challenge was first released on the network in 1998. The competition added an element of physical competition to the MTV network that wasn’t available, and it still continues to bring in ratings after more than 20 years on the air. From its changing format and dramatic antics among contestants, the series has seen some difficult finals over the years, making the competition difficult from beginning to end.
As of 2022, the series has had a total of 37 seasons accounting for 507 episodes airing throughout. It has currently added a new series and format with The Challenge:USA and all seasons and episodes are currently available to watch on the Paramount+ network.
The City (2008-2010)
A spin-off of the popular series The Hills, The City is an American reality tv show that followed the personal and professional lives of several young women including Whitney Port. The series pushed the focus of young adults finding their footing in the professional world while also juggling their personal lives.
MTV released the series in 2008 on the network and gave the series two seasons. After the second season was over, the show was eventually canceled, however, it still remains a classic on the MTV roster with many fans now able to catch every episode of the two seasons on Paramount+.
The Hills (2006-2010)
A spinoff of the popular MTV series Laguna Beach, The Hills followed the popular Lauren Conrad as she tried to make a name for herself in the LA fashion world. The show starred Lauren Conrad, Heidi Montag, Audrina Patridge, Whitney Port, all bringing drama and realness to the series. Although the cast each had one quote that summed up their personality on The Hills, they all brought something to the screen that led many of the to go on to have successful careers today.
With a release in 2006, The Hills lasted for six seasons before it was canceled by the network. Although many fans would have liked to see where the show headed, the series ultimately had its final run in 2010. However, the series saw a reboot in 2019, 9 years after it left the air.
Laguna Beach (2004-2006)
A series that set the stage for teenage crushes and heartbreak, Laguna Beach premiered on the MTV network in 2004. The series quickly grew in ratings and popularity due to its relatable teenage cast. From the drama of love triangles to breakups and hookups, the series kept fans on their toes with every episode in the series.
Although popularity was something the series never lacked, it came to an end in 2006 when the majority of the cast members had already graduated. Although the series has been off the air for over 16 years, it’s still considered a must-watch when it comes MTV reality series.
