Reality shows have been around since 1948 when Candid Camera first aired. Survivor and American Idol brought the genre to the mainstream, and now we have reality shows popping out left and right! Many normal people became stars overnight as millions of people tuned in to this genre. Voting for these shows exceeded the voters for the national election in some countries! I’m also partially hooked to it thanks to my wife, and I can’t even explain why.

This summer comes a fresh wave of reality shows. What do we watch? What do we avoid like the plague? For me, the following seems promising. All show times are in Eastern Time.

1. American Gladiators – This is a remake of a classic TV series, which ran from 1989 to 1996. For this new season, four men and four women will compete against each other in physical battles. The show promises to show the gladiators’ training before the matches, as well as insights to each contestant. Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan and woman boxer Laila Ali will host the show, with the last season’s champions now facing the challengers. I loved the wackiness of the events in the past seasons, and I’m looking forward to seeing this again! It airs on Mondays, 8pm, on NBC.

2. Baby Borrowers – This, for me, is a very intriguing concept. Based on a British program, this show puts five young couples (around 18-20) on the fast track to adulthood. They will be asked to find a home, get a job, and take care of kids ranging from vomiting babies, hyperactive eight-year olds, rebellious teenagers, pets, and even senior citizens! This is a great lesson to teach all the youngsters out there what it truly means to be an adult, a life lesson that is best experienced. I will personally watch every episode. Hey, if they can survive the entire season, they can probably marry already and be assured that they’ll do fine! The winners should get a relaxing luxury beach vacation as a reward, it’s the least the hosts can do after that grueling experience. The show starts on June 25 and will air every Wednesday, 8pm, on NBC.

3. I Survived A Japanese Game Show – Japanese game shows are probably the wackiest game shows I’ve ever seen. Remember Takeshi’s Castle? That’s comedy gold, right there. This show ships ten Americans with different backgrounds to Japan, entering a Japanese game show. The show promises to deliver a humorous experience as the ten Americans become familiar with the country’s culture while participating in the contest itself. Premiers June 24, every 9pm Tuesday, on ABC.

4. Celebrity Family Feud – I know people are tired with Celebrity anything, but I love Family Feud. Everyone should be familiar with this survey-based show. I loved it in the 70’s, the 80’s, the 90’s, and now the new millennium. Get ready to hear Al Roker say "Survey says!" Starts July 1, Tuesday 8pm, on NBC.

Whew! Looks like my nights will be busy soon. How about you? Which reality shows are you looking forward to?