The new season of The Challenge premieres tonight on MTV, with the subtitle Battle of the Exes II. Even after 25 seasons, we still love this gloriously insane reality competition show. Tragically, contestants Diem Brown and Ryan Knight both passed away after filming, making this season more poignant than usual. However, in the spirit of the fun they had on the show, here’s why it’s so enjoyable to watch.
1. The crazy competitions
The insane challenges push contestants to their limits, proving they’ll do almost anything for money.
2. The elimination face-offs
Whether it’s called the Duel, the Gauntlet or the Inferno, this head-to-head battle to stay in the game can get super intense.
3. The different themes
Battle of the Seasons, Rivals, Free Agents – each season comes with a new twist, which keeps the show fresh.
4. Seeing old favorites return
We’re pretty sure Johnny Bananas makes most of his income from Challenge wins.
5. Attractive people
It’s ok to be shallow once in a while, right?
6. The fights
There is never a shortage of drama in the Challenge house, especially when alcohol gets involved.
7. Drunken antics
But liquor can also bring out the sillier side of contestants, which is just as fun to watch.
8. The hookups
With this many hot people under one roof, hookups are inevitable.
9. Host T.J. Lavin
T.J. tells it like it is, and it wouldn’t be The Challenge without him.
10. The crazy strategies.
There’s a surprising amount of strategy involved in this game.
11. Seeing who gets thrown into the elimination round
Who will get backstabbed?
12. Contestants throwing shade in interviews
What they won’t say to someone’s face, they’ll say to the cameras.
If you can’t tell, we’re pretty excited.
