20 reality shows that have the best queer representation

RuPaul's Drag Race is one of the most iconic showcases of queer artistry in TV history. Drag queens battle it out in a fierce mix of fashion, performance, and pure camp while RuPaul reigns supreme. 

Part dating show, part fever dream. Tila Tequila's quest to find love delivered pure chaos in the early 2000s. Contestants of all genders fought for her heart, which, you know, brought tons of drama. It was messy, wild, and actually pretty groundbreaking when you consider she was one of the first openly bisexual people on television. 

Designer Jeff Lewis flipped houses and flipped out on everyone around him, including his clients and, sometimes, the camera crew. As much as this show was partly a home renovation series, it was also an emotional rollercoaster that gave us fabulous interiors and plenty of shade. Jeff's life as an openly gay man added another layer to the series, too. 

Seven self-proclaimed "bad girls" under one roof, with no escape from the drama... what could go wrong? This iconic series brought chaos, catfights, and, sometimes, interpersonal romantic relationships that turned the entire house upside down. And while the cast rotated each season, it always featured at least one queer woman who was just as bold as the rest. 

It's the OG Housewives franchise that launched a thousand wine tosses. Over the years, a few queer cast members have popped up, including a lesbian Housewife who made waves like no other. 

Luxury real estate never looked so ... shady. In Million Dollar Listing: Los Angeles, these brokers hustle million-dollar homes and million-dollar egos, too. Josh Flagg, who started the series in 2008, stands out among the cast, not only because of his ability to make a sale but also for being a proud, openly gay man in a seat of suits. 

Five fabulous experts, one lucky makeover subject. This Netflix reboot gave us glow-ups with heart, as the new Fab Five helped people feel like their best selves. 

Project Runway stitched together fashion, fierce competition, and unforgettable catchphrases. Tim Gunn's presence throughout was also the show's true soul.  

Athletic meets absurd as reality stars battle through competitions like no other. Throughout the show, contestants also navigate hookups and messy betrayals. The Challenge has always been inclusive, as it's featured the biggest stars from MTV's The Real World. Over the years, it's become even more inclusive, with several openly queer cast members making their mark (and enemies). 

Between dramatic makeovers and iconic photo shoots, this show served fashion and ferocity. It also featured several queer contestants (and judges!) who strutted proudly and made runway history. 

Contestants live together in a house where alliances shift faster than the HOH. The show has had a slow evolution, but queer houseguests, such as Ariana Grande's brother Frankie, have increasingly made major game moves and left their stamp on the BB legacy. 

Love them or hate them, the Kardashian and Jenner family own the reality TV genre. In later seasons, they showcased Caitlyn Jenner's transition, a major cultural moment that brought trans visibility to millions. She starred in her own show later, called I Am Cait. 

This dating show thrived on petty arguments, steamy rebounds, and a few surprisingly sweet moments. It's also spotlighted bisexual and pansexual cast members, making the love triangles extra windy. 

Bobby Lytes brought major flair to Love & Hip Hop: Miami and was one of the franchise's first openly gay cast members. He didn't just show up; he showed out. 

K. Michelle is another Love & Hip Hop star who brought vocals and vulnerability to the cameras. She opened up about her sexuality on the show and her spin-off, K. Michelle: My Life. 

Friendships, feuds, and Persian opulence. In Shahs of Sunset, Reza's sharp tongue and even sharper outfits made him stand out from Season 1. As a gay Persian man, his presence broke major ground in the Bravo universe. 

If you haven't seen this show yet, think Vanderpump Rules, but in Charleston. This newer Bravo series delivers drama, drinks, and a standout duo in Michols and Lake, two queer, Black cast members who brought authenticity and a lot of personality to Season 3. 

This docuseries follows Jazz Jenning's life as a trans teen navigating everyday challenges with a strong support system. It's heartfelt, emotional, and educational. 

Over the years, Survivor has celebrated several iconic queer players who've used both their brains and their bravery to outwit, outplay, and outlast in the wild. 

In this Netflix dating series set in Japan, nine queer men live in the same house and create lasting memories, friendships, and romantic relationships that'll last a lifetime.