2000’s reality TV was a whole different breed of entertainment. The Bachelor started in 2002 and Keeping Up with the Kardashians launched in 2007, yet even these long-standing shows have seen major shifts in content, editing and style. 2000’s reality television was also home to some amazing shows like The Simple Life and Pretty Wild, both of which have had a lasting impact on pop culture. So let’s take a deeper dive into these nostalgic favorites!
1. The Simple Life (2003-2007)
The Simple Life is Paris Hilton at her finest. Paris and her then best friend Nicole Richie must leave behind their life of luxury to live “the simple life;” shenanigans ensue. The first season takes place on a farm, but in my opinion the second season is the most entertaining. Both girls have to take on “normal” jobs, like working at a fast-food restaurant and catching fish. The show’s ludacris antics and the girls’ posh mindsets made The Simple Life unbelievably enjoyable and an early 2000’s hit. Reality TV today just doesn’t have the same starpower as Hollywood’s hottest socialites and The Simple Life still has an appeal that exists beyond nostalgia.
2. Pretty Wild (2010)
I recently binged Pretty Wild in its entirety, and I can report that it still holds up as pure entertainment. Starring Alexis Neiers and Tess Taylor, this show follows the two teens around their crazy lives in Hollywood. At the time of filming, Neiers was also dealing with the effects of “The Bling Ring” trial, so it’s safe to say that this show never had a quiet moment. Most notably different from modern reality TV is the plot - or lack thereof. While Pretty Wild has its scripted moments, the show overall seems less staged than today’s reality shows. If you want to relive the infamous “Nancy Jo, this is Alexis Neiers calling” moment, Pretty Wild is where it’s at.
3. MTV Cribs (2000)
“Hi, I’m _______. Welcome to my crib.” That statement was every ‘90s and 2000’s kid’s dream. Mariah Carey’s mermaid room particularly stands out in my memory. Why was it called the mermaid room? Where were the mermaids? Reality television today will never compare to the excitement of seeing Destiny’s Child and Snoop Dogg show us their impressive mansions. MTV can reboot Cribs all they want, but nothing beats the original.
Which 2000’s reality show was your favorite? Do you like today’s reality TV more?
*Photo credit - Glamour Magazine
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