The Challenge is an American reality television show, which was spun off from the reality shows The Real World and Road Rules. Contestants compete against one another individually, in pairs, or in teams to win cash prizes. First airing in 1998, there have been a total of 40 seasons aired in addition to 12 spin-off seasons, and the show has been filmed on six different continents. The Challenge airs on MTV and is hosted by T. J. Lavin.[1]
Contestants on the show are a combination of alumni from seasons of various reality televisions shows, including The Real World, Road Rules, Are You the One?, Big Brother, and Ex on the Beach, contestants who debuted directly on The Challenge, professional athletes, as well as other celebrities. Prior to the twelfth season, Fresh Meat, contestants had only been from The Real World and Road Rules. The 26th season was the first to feature contestants from Are You the One? Since the 31st season, casting has expanded to feature alumni from several reality television shows, including Big Brother, Ex on the Beach, and Geordie Shore. There has also been one contestant who originated from a special mini-series that aired during MTV's Spring Break programming block in 2010, titled Spring Break Challenge. Contestants are regularly brought back for multiple seasons and use their veteran status along with relationships with other returnees to their advantage.[2]