10 Reality Shows That Were Pulled After Just One Episode

Some reality shows were so controversial or poorly received that they were canceled after airing only once.

Sophia Zapanta
May 25, 2025
3 min read

10 Reality Shows That Were Pulled After Just One Episode — Obregonia D. Toretto on Pexels

Not every reality show gets a second chance. Some were pulled immediately after their first episode due to backlash, low ratings, or legal issues. These quick cancellations show how fast networks react when things go wrong on live or unscripted TV.

1. The Will (2005, CBS)

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This show followed a wealthy man deciding which heir would inherit his estate. Critics called it tasteless and mean-spirited. Ratings were low, and viewers didn’t connect with the format. CBS canceled it the next day.

2. Who’s Your Daddy? (2005, Fox)

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A woman who was adopted as a child had to guess which man out of 25 was her biological father. If she guessed wrong, the fake father won money. The concept was heavily criticized for being exploitative. It aired once and was pulled after strong public backlash.

3. Secret Talents of the Stars (2008, CBS)

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Celebrities tried to show off hidden skills like singing or dancing. The first episode featured George Takei singing country music. Ratings were extremely low, and reviews were harsh. CBS shut it down right after the premiere.

4. The Rich List (2006, Fox)

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This game show had contestants compete to name the most items in a category, like car brands or dog breeds. It aired once in the U.S. before being pulled due to low viewership. However, the format became successful in other countries. The U.S. version never returned.

5. Emily’s Reasons Why Not (2006, ABC)

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Though not technically a reality show, this scripted series was promoted like one and pulled after its first episode. It followed a woman who kept a list of reasons not to date certain men. Reviews were bad, and ABC canceled it immediately. Only one episode ever aired.

6. Bridalplasty (2010, E!)

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Women competed in challenges to win plastic surgery procedures before their wedding day. Though more than one episode aired, it was effectively canceled after the first due to intense criticism. Many networks refused to promote it. It remains one of the most controversial shows ever aired.

7. Playing It Straight (2004, Fox)

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A woman had to choose a romantic partner from a group of men — some were straight, some were gay. If she chose a straight man, they split the prize. If she picked a gay man, he got all the money. Viewers and advocacy groups strongly protested the show. Fox pulled it after one episode.

8. Anchorwoman (2007, Fox)

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As a reality TV stunt, a swimsuit model was hired to co-anchor a real news station in Texas. News staff were upset, and viewers didn’t buy the concept. Ratings were low, and the backlash was quick. Fox pulled it after one episode.

9. Welcome to the Neighborhood (2005, ABC)

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This show followed white conservative families deciding which minority family could move into their neighborhood. The idea was to challenge prejudice, but the execution caused a major uproar. Civil rights groups criticized the format. ABC canceled it before the first episode could officially air, though one episode was screened.

10. Living It Up! With Ali & Jack (2003, Syndicated)

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This daytime talk show was meant to compete with Live with Regis and Kelly. While not a typical reality show, its unscripted format and real-life hosts gave it that feel. Ratings were terrible, and it vanished almost immediately. Though technically more than one episode aired, some stations dropped it after the first.