This summer, reality TV fans are in for an unforgettable lineup of shows filled with competition, drama, and entertainment. With fresh seasons of fan favorites and new concepts making their debut, reality TV is set to dominate screens from June through August. Whether it’s sizzling romance on Love Island USA or the high-energy antics of Big Brother 27, viewers will have no shortage of options for their summer binge. Shows like Perfect Match bring familiar faces from across the reality universe, while BBQ Brawl reignites culinary challenges. If you’re looking for the perfect reality fix for those lazy, sunny evenings, this guide highlights the most anticipated reality TV premieres and what makes them must-watch events.
June Premieres
BBQ Brawl: Flay V. Chauhan V. Lofaso
Kicking off the summer on June 1, BBQ Brawl returns to Food Network with a mouthwatering new season. This time, culinary legends Bobby Flay, Maneet Chauhan, and Antonia Lofaso each lead a team of barbecue pitmasters in intense grilling challenges. Every Sunday night at 9 p.m., they’ll compete for the ultimate title of “Master of ‘Cue.” With their teams battling through fire, smoke, and creative cook-offs, the stakes are as high as the flames on the grills. Expect jaw-dropping ribs and brisket creations that’ll have you reaching for your apron.
Love Island USA
On June 3, Love Island USA transports audiences back to its dreamy Fiji villa with a brand-new cast of singles ready to find love. Returning for its seventh season on Peacock, this nightly series (airing at 9 p.m. ET) is filled with romance, unexpected twists, and Casa Amor’s signature drama. Ariana Madix once again hosts as the islanders form connections, break hearts, and compete for a chance to win love and a cash prize. New this season are upgrades to the villa and even bigger challenges to test relationships.
Big Brother 27
CBS brings the heat on July 10 with Big Brother 27. This year marks a significant milestone for the franchise, airing its “biggest season yet” with extended episodes clocked at 90 minutes every Wednesday. Houseguests will compete in strategic challenges, alliances will form (and crumble), and live evictions will keep fans on the edge of their seats. A mix of returning veterans and fresh faces promises drama, strategy, and surprises that only Big Brother can deliver. Tune in on Thursdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays to watch the chaos unfold.
July Premieres
Project Runway
Say hello to fabulous fashion when Project Runway premieres its latest season on July 31. Airing first on Freeform and then Thursdays on Bravo, this beloved design competition brings back the iconic Heidi Klum as host. Joining her are longtime judge Nina Garcia and stylish mentor Christian Siriano. With a fresh crop of designers battling for supremacy in glamor-filled runway challenges, this season is set to bring bold looks, tearful eliminations, and inspirational fashion moments.
Perfect Match
Netflix debuts Perfect Match on August 1, adding a perfect dose of summer romance to the lineup. Singles from popular franchises like Bachelor Nation and Love Island team up with favorites from Netflix’s own reality universe for an unforgettable dating experiment. Featuring fan-loved personalities and new faces, this show combines humor, love, and competition. Whether they find romance or drama, the contestants are bound to keep us entertained.
Other Highlights to Watch For
While these headliners are set to steal the summer spotlight, plenty of other exciting shows are airing their premieres as well:
Alone (June 12)
History Channel fans will want to check out Alone, where survivalists battle the rugged Karoo Desert. From venomous snakes to intense scarcity, this season promises grueling conditions that push competitors to their limits in the ultimate survival showdown.
Bachelor in Paradise (July 7)
ABC’s Bachelor in Paradise spices up Monday nights by introducing “Golden” participants for the first time. With past favorites from The Bachelor franchise, love is just a date card away.
The Challenge: Vets and New Threats (July 30)
Over on MTV, The Challenge spices things up with a mix of returning legends and fresh players battling for dominance. This iteration offers intense competitions and dramatic rivalries that make it one of the summer’s most talked-about shows.
Deadliest Catch (August 1)
Returning on Discovery Channel, Deadliest Catch takes viewers into the high-seas chaos of crab fishing. This season dares to venture farther west than any previous expedition, promising edge-of-your-seat thrills.