If you’re a fan of high-stakes challenges and intense competition, Netflix has a fantastic lineup of Western competition reality TV series. From culinary battles to obstacle courses, these shows offer thrilling entertainment that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Here are 16 must-watch series that bring excitement, drama, and jaw-dropping moments.
The Mole (2022)
Twelve players are put to the test in various physical and mental challenges, working together to build a prize pot. However, among them is a saboteur, “The Mole,” whose mission is to secretly thwart their efforts. As the game progresses, players are eliminated until the final contestant unmasks the mole and claims the prize. This reboot of the cult-classic series adds fresh twists and suspenseful moments, making it a thrilling watch.
Hell’s Kitchen (2005)
Hosted by the fiery British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, this elimination-style competition pits aspiring chefs and home cooks against each other in a high-pressure culinary battle. Contestants face grueling challenges, intense dinner services, and Ramsay’s infamous temper as they vie for the ultimate prize: a head chef position at a prestigious restaurant. The show’s mix of drama, culinary skill, and Ramsay’s colorful commentary keeps viewers hooked.
The Final Table (2018)
Elite chefs from around the world team up in pairs to compete in this global culinary competition. Each episode focuses on a different country’s cuisine, with the teams tasked with creating dishes that impress a panel of esteemed judges, including culinary legends from the featured country. The stakes are high as only the most creative and technically skilled chefs will advance, culminating in a final showdown to determine the ultimate champion.
Blown Away (2019)
In this heated glassblowing competition, ten master artists create stunning glass sculptures in a series of challenging themes and tasks. With $100,000 and the title of champion on the line, contestants must demonstrate exceptional skill, creativity, and endurance. The show offers a fascinating look at the art and science of glassblowing, with each episode showcasing the dramatic process of transforming molten glass into intricate works of art.
Barbecue Showdown (2020)
The best backyard smokers and pitmasters from across the country compete in this sizzling cooking competition to be crowned the next barbecue champion. Contestants face off in a series of challenges that test their skills in smoking, grilling, and perfecting the art of barbecue. With a focus on flavor, technique, and presentation, this friendly yet fierce competition celebrates the rich traditions and mouthwatering flavors of American barbecue.
The Trust (2024)
In this intriguing reality series, strangers are brought together to compete for a quarter of a million dollars. The twist? They must decide whether to split the prize evenly or cut each other out to increase their share. Through a series of trust-building exercises and strategic games, alliances are formed and broken as contestants navigate the complex dynamics of trust and deception. Will they cooperate for the common good or succumb to greed?
Five Star Chef (2023)
Seven professional chefs battle it out to bring their fine-dining concept to life at the historic Palm Court restaurant in London’s luxurious Langham Hotel. Each episode presents new culinary challenges that push their creativity and technical skills to the limit. The chefs must impress a panel of discerning judges and navigate the pressures of high-end cuisine to secure their place in the culinary world. The competition is fierce, and the stakes are high.
Baking Impossible (2021)
This innovative series pairs top bakers with engineers to create edible constructions that must not only taste delicious but also withstand intense engineering stress tests. From edible boats to skyscrapers made of cake, each challenge pushes the boundaries of both baking and engineering. The teams compete for a $100,000 prize, combining their talents to create mind-blowing, structurally sound, and delectable creations.
Pressure Cooker (2023)
Eleven chefs move into a shared house where they live together and compete in a high-stakes cooking contest. Unlike typical cooking shows, this series adds a strategic element as the chefs must vote on who stays and who goes. With $100,000 on the line, the chefs must not only showcase their culinary prowess but also navigate alliances, rivalries, and tactical plays. The tension in the kitchen and the house makes for a gripping viewing experience.
Love Island USA (2018)
The American adaptation of the hit British dating show brings a group of singles to a tropical villa where they must pair up, compete in challenges, and survive periodic eliminations. With cash prizes and potential romance at stake, contestants navigate love triangles, betrayals, and shifting alliances. The show’s blend of reality drama, romantic intrigue, and competitive elements has made it a fan favorite.
Ultimate Beastmaster (2017)
This intense obstacle course series features elite athletes from the U.S. and other countries competing for cash prizes, individual glory, and national pride. Each episode presents a grueling set of physical challenges that test strength, endurance, and agility. With a $50,000 prize for each episode and a $100,000 grand prize, contestants push their limits to conquer the Beast, a daunting and ever-changing obstacle course.
Surviving Paradise (2023)
In this survival-themed reality competition, players must form alliances and strategize to move from the wilderness into a luxurious villa. The game tests their physical endurance, mental toughness, and social acumen. With a huge cash prize at stake, contestants face harsh conditions, challenging tasks, and the constant threat of elimination. The show’s blend of survival skills and strategic gameplay creates a captivating and unpredictable experience.
Cheer (2020)
This gripping docuseries follows the ups and downs of Navarro College’s competitive cheer squad as they work to win a coveted national title. The series delves into the personal stories of the cheerleaders and coaches, showcasing their dedication, struggles, and triumphs. The intense training, high-stakes competitions, and emotional journeys make “Cheer” a compelling and inspiring watch.
The Titan Games (2019)
Hosted by Dwayne Johnson, this epic competition series pits everyday athletes against each other in grueling physical challenges inspired by ancient mythology. Contestants must demonstrate strength, speed, and endurance to conquer the Titan arena. With a $100,000 prize on the line, the show celebrates the determination and resilience of its competitors, who strive to prove they have what it takes to be a Titan.
Don’t Hate the Player (2024)
Starting from nothing, 13 players compete for a spot in a luxury villa and a shot at 150,000 euros in this unpredictable game of strategy and survival. Contestants must navigate social dynamics, form alliances, and outwit their rivals to secure their place in the villa. The series combines elements of strategy, competition, and reality drama, making for an engaging and suspenseful watch.
Spartan: Ultimate Team Challenge (2016)
Teams of athletic warriors, each with their own unique strengths, must overcome bruised bodies and battered egos to conquer grueling obstacle courses. The challenges are designed to test physical endurance, teamwork, and mental fortitude. With a $250,000 grand prize, the competition is fierce, and the obstacles are relentless. The show’s emphasis on teamwork and resilience makes it a standout in the realm of competition reality TV.
