Published at 7:00 AM on September 24, 2009

By Kate Kiefer

Top Ten Reality TV Shows

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A true event of this decade, reality TV can be toxic (Wife Swap), and it can be inspiring (The Amazing Race). The shows on this list don't necessarily represent the best, most intelligent programming that television has to offer, but they’re entertaining—and isn’t that the point?

1. Survivor (CBS)

This list wouldn’t exist without Survivor—the well crafted desert-island competition started the whole reality TV craze, and 19 seasons later, it’s still going strong. Jeff Probst is the perfect host—knowledgeable and entertaining but never intrusive.

2. Top Chef (Bravo)

The premise is simple—chefs compete to make the best meal. But somehow you find yourself addicted, forming strong opinions about food you can’t even taste.

3. Project Runway (Lifetime)

Like Top Chef, the designer contestants are required to have actual, specific talent, and the season’s end-products are impressive—entire collections of clothing. Plus it’s hosted by the most beautiful woman in the world.

4. The Amazing Race (CBS)

The family-friendly show’s got it all—competition, culture, relationship drama and action. And it wins an Emmy every single year. (In case you haven’t noticed, we care about the Emmys now.)

5. Man Vs. Wild (Discovery)

Bear Grylls skinned a camel and crawled inside for shelter. And drank elephant poop juice because he was thirsty. And ate a dead sheep’s eyeball—not sure why he did that though. Don't watch this clip if you have a weak stomach:

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