5 Reality Shows That Inspire

By Allison Ford, DivineCaroline

The reality-television genre is not exactly known for shows that hold a mirror up to life or illuminate the delicate tragedies of the human condition. Unless by “life” we mean “kiddie beauty pageant contestants” and by “human condition” we mean “finding a date for an aging rock star,” it’s hard to find anything worthwhile or redeeming about them. Celebrities trying to lose weight, people eating bugs, and fame seekers attempting to be the next top idol/chef/designer/model/apprentice/hairdresser/dog groomer/flower arranger are pretty much all there is to choose from. (And shows with Gordon Ramsay yelling, of course.)

But there are a few shining diamonds in the rough, prurient swamp of reality programming—shows that, either by design or by accident, actually end up being uplifting, sincere, kind, and (dare we say it?) inspiring.

Intervention (A&E)
In the hands of another network, a show about drug addicts would be voyeuristic, exploitative, and squicky ([cough] Celebrity Rehab). But the granddaddy of reality television manages to portray struggling addicts who need help with brutal honesty and stunning compassion. The show is about more than just capturing the horrific scenes as these addicts “bottom”—it’s about assisting them and their families. It does a great service for both its subjects and the viewers by telling the real story not just about stereotypically out-of-control addicts, but also about high-functioning addicts with jobs, families, and lots to lose. The show is even brave enough to chronicle the deaths of some subjects either who didn’t get help or for whom help came too late. Whether a viewer is struggling with substance abuse or just loves someone who is, there’s a lot to learn from Intervention.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Natalie D.

12:14PM PST on Nov 7, 2011

We have really gotten into The Biggest Loser this season and it has motivated me to workout.

send a green star

Vanessa S.

12:45PM PDT on Jul 10, 2011

I have seen Ruby and 19 and Counting. I love both shows. Every time I watch them, I definitely feel inspired to make changes for the better in my own life. I am definitely going to try to watch the one where the guy tries to help makeover the eating habits of the community in WV. I live in WV and am obsessed with trying to eat healthier and provide the most healthy meals possible to my three kids. I also can't wait to watch Intervention because I have quite a few individuals in my life that I care for deeply that are currently struggling with addiction issues.

Ioana B.

12:18AM PDT on Mar 28, 2011

Thanks!

Brenda T.

4:54AM PDT on Mar 21, 2011

Some shows are very good.

jane r.

7:55PM PST on Mar 11, 2011

Brenda M.

10:23AM PST on Feb 9, 2011

Two of my favorites that I find very inspiring are "Amazing Race" and "Undercover Boss".

Eternal G.

5:34PM PST on Feb 8, 2011

Annick L.

3:22PM PST on Feb 2, 2011

Thanks for suggestions

Vera Y.

12:00AM PST on Jan 27, 2011

uhmmmm there are not the ones i would chose.
Anyone with Gordon Ramsay will, he rocks, he knows his craft and he is passionate about it.
Also like Top Design and Survivor (last time i think just because they do what i couldnt do in a million years or lives to live!)
Intervention is too much depresing.....and the fat ones dancing, as depresing as intervention, but with lack of food!!!

Maria Liz C.

4:25PM PST on Jan 26, 2011

Thanks for the article!