Shows like 'The Ultimatum' to add to your watch list

We can't say no to a dramatic TV lineup. Fortunately, shows like The Ultimatum deliver theatrics in spades, so kick back with your snack of choice. 

The Ultimatum, Netflix's new buzz-worthy dating experiment, focuses on a truly tense point in relationships. While the cast of Love Is Blind and contestants of Married at First Sight Australia met on set, The Ultimatum cast comprises of partners who are at a crossroads. 

With The Ultimatum, there's a history. One party is ready to walk down the aisle, the other is ready to call it quits. To make matters all the more complicated, each couple is separated and temporarily paired with another love interest to see if they're truly happy in their actual relationship. Ouch!

Hopeful and hopeless romantics are going to have very different takes on this unique series. If you're anxious to see similar disasters shows unfold until part two of The Ultimatum comes out, we've done some digging. Adjust your TV schedules accordingly!

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Shows like 'The Ultimatum'

1. '90 Day Fiancé' (2014–present) 

• Where to watch: TLC
• Where to stream: Hulu, Sling TV, Fubo TV

Online dating gets a tense twist in a series where people search for love overseas. Once matches from opposite ends of the globe connect IRL, they have 90 days to put their relationships to the test—that's how K-1 visas work. 

Be sure to catch up with the current 90 Day Fiancé cast before diving into the new season.

2. 'Bachelor in Paradise'

• Where to watch: ABC
• Where to stream: HBO Max, Fubo TV

No rose ceremonies here! 

Bachelor and Bachelorette participants who weren't fortunate enough to secure a bloom have a second chance at love on a tropical island. Sometimes, old flames reignite. Other times, completely new and unexpected relationships develop. 

One thing's for sure, it's always an adventure when it comes to this franchise. ("Who is the next Bachelorette," you ask?" We have two this time around—and we're pretty sure that means double the drama.) 

3. 'Winter House' (2021-present)

• Where to watch: Bravo
• Where to stream: Hulu, Sling TV, Fubo TV

Bravo alumni convene in a rural Vermont abode for snow and shenanigans in this brand-new series. Here, we catch up with new and old friends across shows who attempt to see if love can blossom. (An unexpected friends-to-lovers relationship started after the cameras stopped rolling, but you won't catch any spoilers here, folks!) 

For those participants who walk away with a broken heart, well—at least they got to take a two-week vacation. But judging from the amount of partying, they'll likely need a vacation from their vacation.

4. 'Wife Swap' (2004-2013)

• Where to stream: Paramount+, Tubi

The premise is just as it sounds: families swap wives/mothers for two weeks...with a few catches. 

The family newbies have to follow detailed instructions for the first week, yet come week two, they're able to live it up and do whatever they please. After the experiment, parties reconvene to discuss...and argue.

5. 'Love After Lockup'

• Where to watch: WE tv
• Where to stream: Sling TV

If you thought giving your S.O. an ultimatum was difficult, Love After Lockup completely ups the ante. Once the convicted are freed, will they be able to continue with their relationships, or will their time behind bars change everything?

6. 'Love in the Flesh' (2022) 

• Where to watch: BBC Three

This new experimental gem from BBC brings together couples who met online. Now that they've finally joined forces in-person—at a gorgeous Greek beach house, no less—will they be able to make their love work? Tune in to Love In the Flesh to find out!

For those who are curious where The Ultimatum couples stand, do be sure to tune in for The Ultimatum Part 2, where we'll be treated to a finale and reunion.