Who of us doesn’t love a good controversy, especially when it’s on a reality show? Time and time again, we’ve seen shows that were pushing the line between being cringey and outright insufferable. Needless to say, some of the shows overstep that line quite often, and it inevitably ends in their cancellation.
Here are some of the most infamously controversial reality shows that were too scandalous, couldn’t handle the drama, and were eventually taken off the air.
1. “Buckwild” (2013)
“Buckwild” aired on MTV in 2013, following a rambunctious group of young adults in rural West Virginia. The show focused on their wild adventures and reckless lifestyle, showing the viewers their love for off-roading, partying, and pulling lame pranks. The cast would also engage in activities such as mudding, building trashy makeshift pools, and other activities popular among today’s TikTokers. Despite aiming to showcase the free-spirited, carefree nature of rural life, the show also faced criticism for perpetuating stereotypes about people from Appalachia. Interestingly, this wasn’t enough to cancel the show; the tragic death of cast member Shain Gandee put the production on pause before MTV completely scrapped it.
2. “Toddlers & Tiaras” (2009-16)
“Toddlers & Tiaras,” the reality series on TLC, caused a lot of controversy because it showed what goes on behind the scenes at child beauty pageants. A lot of people didn’t like how the show seemed to turn the kids into objects and focus on their looks. People started criticizing the show as soon as it started, but it still ran for six seasons before the producers finally stopped it in 2013. The network decided to resurrect it once again after three years, but the numbers were so bad TLC axed it for good.
