The best reality shows to stream on Showmax in December and January

This month, we’ve got Nairobi Bachelor bringing the drama, as well as the most controversial season of The Bachelor to binge-watch; plus, fire from Gordon Ramsay, farmers looking for love, and Africa’s most promising designers vying to win the title of Style Magnate. Get hooked on these this month.

International favourites 

Next Level Chef S2 | Binge from Wednesday, 8 January

Trust Gordon Ramsay to bring out the best in his chefs, even in the most challenging conditions.

With its unique, three-story set and innovative culinary challenges, the first season of Next Level Chef elevated the cooking competition genre and quickly became a fan favourite. The series premiere was the top-rated debut of its kind and Fox’s third most-streamed unscripted debut.

In Season 2, Ramsay, along with chefs Nyesha Arrington and Richard Blais, will once again search the United States of America for the very best line cooks, home chefs, social media stars, food truck owners, and everything in between, all with the goal of discovering the food world’s newest superstar.

The contestant who serves up the best dishes will walk away with a $250 000 grand prize and the coveted title of Next Level Chef.

The Bachelor S28 | Binge from Friday, 13 December

Season 28 of The Bachelor promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with oodles of romance, drama, heartache… and a shocking series-first ending. 

This season’s bachelor is none other than 28-year-old tennis coach pro Joey Graziadei, who stole hearts across Bachelor Nation on Season 20 of The Bachelorette. 

Once again hosted by Jesse Palmer, the hit reality dating show introduces us to an unprecedented line-up of 32 contestants vying for the final rose and a shot at finding their forever love.

From idyllic locations in California and Alberta, the “most romantic season in Bachelor history” sweeps contestants off to dream destinations in Malta, Mexico, Quebec and Spain, with guest appearances from franchise alums and the likes of Feist and Michael Bolton. 

The Real Housewives of Orange County S18 | Binge from Wednesday, 15 January

As The Real Housewives of Orange County returns for its highly anticipated 18th season, the drama is hotter than ever. As the groundbreaking original series in The Real Housewives franchise, OC continues to captivate audiences with its mix of glamour, conflict, and personal growth.

In this season, Shannon is working hard to move forward, grappling with the fallout from her DUI and the challenges of rebuilding her life. Emily embarks on a new fitness journey, becoming obsessed with her gym routine, while relationships are tested as both Gina and Jenn face new chapters in their personal lives - exploring major changes in their living arrangements with their partners.

The Real Housewives of Orange County remains the flagship of The Real Housewives franchise, now part of a global empire of 15 franchises available to stream on Showmax. Don’t miss a moment of the drama, laughs, and tears as the ladies of OC continue to show us what it really means to live large in Southern California.

Showmax Originals

Nairobi Bachelor S1 | Fridays from 6 December

Hosted by the dynamic celebrity couple Daddie Marto (Sue na Jonnie) and Koku Lwanga, Nairobi Bachelor is a Showmax Original reality dating show that promises to bring love, drama and unexpected twists. 

Nairobi Bachelor follows the journey of young bachelors and singletons as they embark on a quest to find their perfect match. Each bachelor enters the show believing they are the sole participant, competing against five queens for their affection. 

The show also features a unique Baggage segment, where successful couples face two rounds of baggage claims. In this segment, three sets of revelations are presented, with only one being the true baggage for both the queens and bachelors. Couples who can navigate and accept their partner's baggage will earn the opportunity to go on a date. 

Nairobi Bachelor is produced by Clementina Kabutha through Real Strike Studios, the team behind the award-winning short film Kanairo.

Style Magnate S1 | Binge from 20 December 

In Style Magnate, 20 talented designers, including South African standout Rorisang Zondi, embark on a month-long journey that will push their creativity, skill, and endurance to the limit. At the end of it all, only one designer will be crowned the winner and awarded a life-changing opportunity to launch their career as a designer for the stars.

Each episode ramps up the intensity, with contestants facing off in increasingly complex challenges designed to test their design prowess and ability to think on their feet. From sketching and fabric selection to sewing under the most intense pressure, these designers must prove they can deliver show-stopping, red-carpet-worthy creations, worthy of some of the biggest names in fashion. 

But it’s not just about technical ability; the contestants must impress an elite panel of fashion icons and industry giants who will stop at nothing to find the next designer superstar.

The contestants receive invaluable mentorship from one of the most respected names in the industry, Mai Atafo, the award-winning Nigerian fashion mogul and style magnate.

At the helm as host is actor Joseph Benjamin, who brings his star power and flair for fashion to every episode. Yolanda Okereke, the acclaimed costume designer behind King of Boys, serves as the show’s fashion principal, bringing her keen eye and expertise to ensure the designs meet the highest standards of style and sophistication.

Ubuthe Uzobuya | Binge from 21 December 

Ubuthe Uzobuya is a gripping Showmax Original that takes viewers deep into the emotional turmoil of couples torn apart by a mysterious disappearance.

 Hosted by Tshepo Maseko, this powerful reality series shines a light on the heart-wrenching stories of individuals who were once in love - only to be left with unanswered questions when their partner abruptly vanished without a trace.

The series follows a unique and emotional journey: each episode focuses on tracking down the missing partner to uncover the truth behind their sudden departure. What was the reason they left? Were there signs of trouble? And, most importantly, what happens when they finally confront their past?

Local favourites

Mntase S1-3 | Binge from Tuesday, 10 December

Mntase, Mzansi Wethu’s hit reality show, takes an unflinching look at the intense and often heartbreaking challenges that families face when sibling relationships spiral into conflict. 

From deep-rooted resentments to volatile, sometimes violent clashes, Mntase explores how these destructive dynamics can tear families apart - and offers a path to healing.

Hosted by the charismatic and empathetic Moshe Ndiki, the DStv Viewers Choice Awards winner and star of Uyang’thanda Na?, the show provides a safe space for families to confront their issues head-on. 

With his trademark warmth, humour, and deep understanding of human emotion, Moshe helps guide each family through difficult conversations, encouraging reconciliation and offering hope for a future where healing can begin.

Boer Soek ‘n Vrou S16 | Binge from Friday, 24 January 

kykNET’s Boer Soek 'n Vrou is back for its 16th season - the last to be hosted by Marciel Hopkins. The iconic Afrikaans dating show will take viewers on an unforgettable journey across the country, helping single farmers find their perfect match.

In each episode, we meet a diverse group of farmers searching for love, as they open their hearts and farms to potential partners. From the rolling fields to intimate farmyards, the show explores what these farmers truly desire in a life partner.

Join us for the ultimate love story, as Boer Soek 'n Vrou continues its tradition of connecting people from all walks of life, offering a glimpse into the heartfelt world of rural romance.