How many seasons does The Challenge have?

The Challenge has 42 seasons and 654 episodes.

Is The Challenge renewed or canceled?

The Challenge is currently returning. The next episode airs Sep 16, 2026.

Where can I watch The Challenge?

The Challenge is available on MTV. You can stream it on Paramount+.

When is the next episode of The Challenge?

The next episode of The Challenge (S42 E8) airs on Sep 16, 2026.

The Challenge

Name: The Challenge
Genre: Reality
Released: 1998-04-20
Rating: 7.177
Cast: T.J. Lavin, Johnny 'Bananas' Devenanzio, Nurys Mateo, Chris 'C.T.' Tamburello, Cara Maria Sorbello

RETURNING42 Seasons654 Episodes★ 7.2

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NetworkMTV

First AiredApr 20, 1998

Last AiredAug 5, 2026

GenreReality

Runtime42 min

Created ByMary-Ellis Bunim, Jonathan Murray

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.

NEXT EPISODE

S42 E8Episode 8Sep 16, 20262d

WHERE TO WATCH

Some links may earn us a commission. Data via JustWatch / TMDB

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 · 654 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

E8Episode 8UPCOMING

Sep 16, 2026

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 654 episodes. The Challenge has been renewed and is returning for more episodes. The next episode airs on Sep 16, 2026. It has a rating of 7.2/10 based on 79 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.