The Challenge

Name: The Challenge
Genre: Reality
Released: 1998-04-20
Rating: 7.2
Cast: T.J. Lavin, Johnny 'Bananas' Devenanzio, Nurys Mateo, Chris 'C.T.' Tamburello, Cara Maria Sorbello

RETURNING42 Seasons660 Episodes★ 7.2

The Challenge is a reality series on MTV that premiered in 1998, with 42 seasons and 660 episodes to date. Its most recent episode aired on Oct 28, 2026, and more episodes are on the way.

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NetworkMTV

First AiredApr 20, 1998

Last AiredOct 28, 2026

GenreReality

Runtime42 min

Created ByMary-Ellis Bunim, Jonathan Murray

LanguageEnglish

CountryUnited States

ProductionBunim/Murray Productions, Dualstar Productions

Each Challenge pits numerous cast members from past seasons of reality shows against each other, dividing them into two separate teams according to different criteria, such as gender, which show they first appeared on, whether or not they're veterans or rookies on the show, etc. The two teams compete in numerous missions in order to win prizes and advance in the overall game.

AIRING NOW

The Challenge is airing now. The most recent episode aired on Oct 28, 2026, and the next air date has not been listed yet. Track this show to get an alert when a date is confirmed.

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Cast

T.J. Lavin

Self - Host

Johnny 'Bananas' Devenanzio

Himself

Nurys Mateo

Herself

Chris 'C.T.' Tamburello

Himself

Cara Maria Sorbello

Herself

Seasons & Episodes42 seasons · 660 episodes

0% complete

E1Return to Cutthroat

Aug 5, 202660m

The Challenge returns to Thailand, where competitors must immediately race through Bangkok to their new villa. The top three become team captains, facing a challenge that tests the new teams' balance and agility.

E2Crying Won't Get You Off This Roof

Aug 5, 202648m

New captains face heights, romance, and a team in survival mode.

E3Keep My Name Out Your Mouth

Aug 12, 202647m

The Blue Team regroups as relationships and team dynamics shift.

E4Say It To My Face

Aug 19, 202648m

At the first swimming challenge of the season, the teams face a terrifying test that could determine who might sink or swim, while differing strategies, close observation, and a growing connection create pressure in the house.

E5Down and Dirty

Aug 26, 202647m

Mud, mutiny, injury, and elimination shake the teams to their cores.

E6Leave Room For Jesus

Sep 2, 202644m

A memory-based challenge has teams swinging forty feet above water, while attempts to clear the air fuel more drama. Romances wobble, and one argument could send a player into The Arena.

E7You Need Me

Sep 9, 202645m

The players cut loose western style after the daily challenge tests each team's endurance and cohesion. Blue struggles with leadership and a devastating exit shakes the house.

E8Is This Safe?

Sep 16, 202648m

Shocking news hits before a bizarre feast as teams face dwindling numbers, fate, hierarchy, and a new pool boy.

E9A Captain's Worst Nightmare

Sep 23, 202651m

A Thai temple challenge sparks sabotage. Choosing a new captain forces a tough decision: friendship or the betterment of the team?

E10Trial By Combat

Sep 30, 202646m

TJ drops a bombshell! Mercenaries arrive to raid the pot and end dreams.

E11Underwear Gate

Oct 7, 202650m

An underwear theft, a blindfolded beach challenge, Rookie vs Vet tension, and a bold plan in the Arena rattle the house.

E12Participation Trophies

Oct 14, 202647m

A massive rig, an elimination twist, and an Arena selection shake the game.

E13The Final - Part 1

Oct 21, 202651m

Nine Finalists battle heat, puzzles, and miles for a Day 2 advantage.

E14The Final - Part 2

Oct 28, 202646m

One final Day decides the winners, but captains ultimately split the cash.

About The Challenge

The Challenge is a reality series on MTV. The show first aired on Apr 20, 1998 and currently has 42 seasons and 660 episodes. The Challenge is currently airing; its most recent episode aired on Oct 28, 2026. It has a rating of 7.2/10 based on 81 votes. The cast includes T.J. Lavin, Johnny 'Bananas' Devenanzio, Nurys Mateo, Chris 'C.T.' Tamburello, Cara Maria Sorbello. Created by Mary-Ellis Bunim and Jonathan Murray.