Reality TV Royalty: The Most Influential Stars

Paris Hilton defined the reality TV 'socialite' archetype, leveraging her fame to build a media and brand empire. Her show "The Simple Life" not only catapulted her to stardom but also laid the groundwork for countless imitators and the modern influencer concept.

• Global style and fashion icon

• Successful entrepreneur across multiple industries

• Enduring media and social media presence

• Significant cultural influence in pop culture

Rob Mariano, widely known as "Boston Rob," is an iconic figure in reality television, primarily for his multiple and memorable appearances on Survivor. His charisma, strategic cunning, and the way he became a recurring and often central character on the show solidify him as true reality TV royalty.

• Won the title of Sole Survivor on Survivor's 22nd season

• Starred in reality TV show chronicling married life

Richard Hatch is a foundational figure in reality TV royalty as the inaugural winner of "Survivor." His victory established the strategic gameplay and alliance-forming format that would define countless subsequent reality shows, setting a precedent for influence within the genre.

• Excellent fishing skills

Carrie Underwood has solidified her status as an influential figure in reality television, demonstrating lasting impact and an ability to maintain relevance over time. Her post-competition trajectory has been a testament to her influence, establishing her as one of the genre's most enduring and recognizable stars.

• Her influence goes beyond music

• One of the most beloved and respected artists

• She influences pop culture with her music and style

Tiffany 'New York' Pollard is an iconic figure in reality television, known for her flamboyant personality and lasting cultural impact. Her participation in multiple shows has solidified her status as one of the most recognizable and talked-about personalities in the genre.

• She is an actress and producer.

NeNe Leakes is an iconic figure in reality television, known for her bold personality and her ability to create memorable on-screen moments. Her influence extends beyond her show, establishing her as true royalty in the genre.

• Actress and producer

• Author and fashion designer

• Original cast member of Real Housewives of Atlanta

Kim Kardashian has established herself as a central figure in the reality television world, wielding significant influence over popular culture and social media. Her personal brand and ability to capitalize on her fame make her a pillar of reality TV royalty.

• Its products are worth it

• Has 355 million followers

• Media personality, businesswoman, socialite, and model

• Charges around $2,176,000 per post

Snooki cemented her status as a reality TV icon with her larger-than-life personality and starring role in 'Jersey Shore'. Her cultural impact and ability to generate buzz established her as an influential figure in the genre.

• Entrepreneur: Boss of THE SNOOKI SHOP

• Inventor of Messy Mawma Wine

Mike 'The Situation' Sorrentino cemented his status as an iconic reality TV figure through his starring role on Jersey Shore, defining a television personality archetype. His impact extends beyond the show, maintaining a media presence and a loyal fanbase that demonstrate his lasting influence in the genre.

• Former Jersey Shore star

• Television personality

Bethenny Frankel has solidified herself as an iconic figure in reality television, not only for her participation in 'The Real Housewives of New York City' but also for her ability to capitalize on her fame into successful businesses like Skinnygirl. Her influence extends beyond the screen, demonstrating a unique talent for creating and expanding personal and business brands.

• 'Us' Entrepreneur of the Year

• Transformed reality TV

• Influential