Whether you see reality television as a great guilty pleasure or the complete downfall of entertainment, there is no denying that this genre of television is here to stay. The reality television trend started in America with shows such as The Real World, American Idol, and Keeping Up With the Kardashians, but it didn’t take long for it spread to hundreds of other countries. I’m still not sure if this is something they can thank Americans for or not, but if you’re a big fan of American reality television, branch out and sink your teeth into some new programs from the UK and Australia.
1. Being Lara Bingle
Aussie model, presenter, brand ambassador, and one of the most googled names in Australia are just a few terms to describe Lara Bingle. Being Lara Bingle premiered in 2011, and the show follows the life and career of Lara, from trying to break into the American entertainment scene to dealing with the death of her father. While the show may have her name sake, it’s worth noting that the eccentric cast of characters in her life really take it to another level. You can watch the entire season of Being Lara Bingle online for free below:
2. Nanny 911
Granted, Nanny 911 did air in America, but it wouldn’t be a thing without the no-nonsense, British nannies Deb, Yvonne, and Stella. These nannies are so good at what they do that one of them even served for the royal family, so it’s definitely good enough for unruly kids in America. Each episode features a different family from various cities in the US who have lost complete and total control of their children. Deb, Yvonne, and Stella are brought in as last resort for families who need help turning their household tyrants back into little angels. Watch Nanny 911 online for free below:
3. Edwardian Farm
From the makers of Victorian Farm and Victorian Pharmacy comes Edwardian Farm, a reality show that challenges three historians to live a full calendar year under the harsh conditions of those who were alive in Edwardian times. Quick history lesson for those of you who aren’t well-versed in the different eras of British royalty: the Edwardian Era began in 1901 after the death of Queen Victoria, and it lasted up until the beginning of World War I. While it may not be as primitive as medieval times, you do get to see these history buffs make their own clothing, fashion their own iron utensils, and even prepare for harvest. Watch Edwardian Farm online for free below:
4. Serious Explorers: Livingstone
In Serious Explorers: Livingstone, seven young people travel across some of the most remote places in Africa to relive the route of Dr. David Livingstone, a Scottish Congregationalist pioneer and medical missionary. The contestants, who are boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 15 years old, are chosen from all over Britain, and are placed in Africa with a team of adult explorers who guide them and help them through their challenges. Without any spoilers, this particular season of Serious Explorers has some of the most harrowing and traumatic experiences in the show’s history, which caused this season to end abruptly. Find out for yourself, and watch Serious Explorers: Livingstone online for free below:
5. Ladette to Lady
Americans may not exactly know what a ladette means, so according to Urban Dictionary, a ladette is” a young woman who behaves in a confident and noisy way, who drinks alcohol and may enjoy sport or other activities that are traditionally enjoyed by men.” This program hilariously showcases the mishaps that happen when eight raucous young woman are sent to a traditional English finishing school to learn to become proper ladies. The phenomenon doesn’t just stop at English ladettes though. Series four of Ladette to Lady features Australian trouble makers who are sent all the way to England to hopefully change their ways. You can watch Ladette to Lady online for free below:
