Over the past few decades, the unique form of reality television programming has been consistently evolving, feeding the beast that has become modern social media influencers. From the early to mid-2000's, television networks aired several reality shows in hopes of striking comedic gold, which are sadly now forgotten. While the distinctive and experimental programs are currently off the air, here is a sample of what the decadent period was like.
1. "Rock of Love with Bret Michaels" (2007)
Poison frontman, Bret Michaels, who is passionately determined to find his soulmate, welcomes 25 female contestants into his rock 'n' roll themed mansion to compete for his heart and participate in his musical lifestyle. The reality show was a great success for VH1, resulting in three seasons and various spin-off series.
2. "Pretty Wild" (2009)
"Pretty Wild" followed and documented the lives of three up-and-coming Hollywood socialites. While the show was initially lighthearted, with footage of modeling shoots and parties, the series quickly drew scandal as one of the starlets were involved in a burglary ring that robbed the homes of Los Angeles celebrities.
3. "Married to Rock" (2009)
"Married to Rock" depicted the chaotic lifestyles of wives who were married to successful musicians. The show provided a behind-the-scenes look into music tours, summer festivals, recording sessions, and rock concerts. Several bands, including Jane's Addiction, The Cult, Velvet Revolver and Guns N' Roses, can be seen throughout the reality show.
4. "The Girls Next Door" (2005)
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"Girls Next Door" illustrated the glamorous and luxurious side to living in the Playboy mansion with Hugh Hefner. The reality television program depicted several events that took place at the Playboy mansion, including the Playboy Jazz Festival, Fight Night, and the Midsummer Night's Dream Party. The show also followed the personal lives of Hugh Hefner's three girlfriends: Holly Madison, Bridget Marquardt, and Kendra Wilkinson.
5. "Charm School" (2007)
"Charm School" consists of 14 contestants who were former reality television personas who possessed appalling reputations. The reality show was a satire on finishing school procedures, as each contestant-dressed in schoolgirl uniforms were to compete in challenges that worked to improve their behavior and public image.
6. "The Simple Life" (2003)
Heiresses Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie abandon their comfortable Beverly Hills lifestyle to live with a farm family for five weeks. During their stay, the former party girls learn how to adapt to their surroundings while taking on a variety of odd jobs in the small town. The following seasons of the show took the socialites all across the United States, as different families took the girls in as hosts. The "Simple Life" acted as a catalyst for reality television stars as well.
7. "Rich Girls" (2003)
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MTV's answer to "The Simple Life" came in a Northeast interpretation of wealthy heiresses. The daughters of successful fashion designers and entrepreneurs were followed in this reality series, as they prepared for important personal events, such as prom and the start of college. The exclusive society in which the girls take an active role in is also depicted throughout the reality show, including their respective melodramatic issues.
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