Most Appalling TV Shows Ever

Just when you think television has run out of wretchedly dumb and degrading ideas, someone comes up with an idea that gives true meaning to the term “a new low.”

Confessing dirty deeds in front of a studio audience? Sending kids out to establish their own society? Swapping spouses? Behind-the-scenes visits with loopy, incoherent stars?

The possibilities, unfortunately, have been seemingly endless, but a few still manage to stand out. Entertainment Weekly held its nose long enough to identify its “20 Most Appalling TV Shows Ever.”

Here’s a sampling of the dregs of the dregs:

Moment of Truth , Fox (2008)

Jail, My 9 Network (2008)

Kid Nation, CBS (2007)

Britney and Kevin: Chaotic, UPN (2005)

Hey Paula!, Bravo (2007)

The Anna Nicole Smith Show, E! (2002)

The Swan, Fox (2004)

I Want a Famous Face, MTV (2004)

Temptation Island, Fox (2001)

Cheaters, Syndicated (2000)

Flavor of Love, Flavor of Love 2, Flavor of Love 3, I Love New York, and I Love New York 2, VH1 (2006)

Wife Swap, ABC (2004); Trading Spouses: Meet Your New Mommy, Fox (2004)

If you aren’t thoroughly appalled by this point, check out the rest at Entertainment Weekly.