Reality television has become an important part of the entertainment industry. And in many cases, reality show fans can rival those of scripted shows in number and dedication.
Over the years, many people have come to regard reality shows with disdain. Sure, there are drunken parties, tossed glasses of wine, and proverbial backstabbings, but there's more to the genre than that. Plus, what's wrong with a little drama here and there?
INSIDER compiled a list of the unscripted shows on TV that we feel represent the best of the bunch. They include programs that some would consider lowbrow, but there are also shows on our list that redefined industries, opened people's minds, and blazed new trails.
Here are our picks for the 15 best reality TV shows on tv right now:
SEE ALSO: Netflix has about 20 new reality-TV shows in the works
17. "Fixer-Upper" (HGTV)
Chip and Joanna Gaines have racked up a ton of fans over the four seasons of their HGTV renovation show.
Aside from their popularity, the show arrived at a time when finances were tight for people. The idea of buying a house that needed some work had become the most attractive option for many. And then here comes the Gaines to show them that getting everything they wanted in their home is still possible, even if it's a fixer upper — and with an adorable family to boot.
16. "Tiny House Nation" (FYI)
Not every reality TV show is about aspiring to live in McMansions. HGTV's "Tiny House Nation" travels the country to help home buyers build their ideal tiny home.
The process of preparing the home buyers for living tiny is fascinating. And in all cases, host John Weisbarth and Zack Giffin end up delivering exactly what the buyers needed.
15. "Big Brother" (CBS)
MTV's "Real World" may have made been the first to put strangers in a home and then tape their every move, but "Big Brother" took it to the extreme – complete with contests for head of the house, eliminations, and around-the-clock taping.
The show is currently in its 19th season.
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