The new year brings a bunch of new reality shows to the airwaves, thanks in part to the Hollywood writers' strike. Here's what's coming up in 2008.

"American Gladiators," Jan. 6, 9 p.m., NBC

The '90s competition series is back, as the American Gladiators take on amateur athletes in classic events like The Joust, The Wall, Hang Tough and the Eliminator. NBC.com says, "Using splashy twists including special effects, water skills and the latest technology, the classic games will be upgraded with even higher thrills, impact, energy and spectacle." ... Whatever that means. Former WWE Champion Hulk Hogan and professional boxer (and "Dancing with the Stars" alum) Laila Ali host.

"I Love New York 2" reunion show, Jan. 6, 9 p.m., VH1

The Hollywood Reporter says "I Love New York 2" is VH1's third-highest rated series, and the show made the top 10 basic cable series list of 2007. What can I say? America loves its trash TV! According to the New York Post, New York (aka Tiffany) and Tailor Made (aka George) have been living together with George's 12-year-old daughter since the summer, and they will reveal their living arrangement during the reunion show.

"Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann," Jan. 7, 8 p.m., ABC

This "Dancing with the Stars" spinoff features two of the show's popular judges and choreographers -- Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Anne Inaba -?? and is hosted by "Dancing" season two champ, Drew Lachey. According to ABC.com, "Bruno and Carrie Ann will put their reputations on the line as they search for America's most talented amateur performers." I'm just looking forward to Bruno's outrageous use of adjectives.

"Life of Ryan," Jan. 8, 10 p.m., MTV.

Follow the life of 17-year-old pro skateboarder, Ryan Sheckler. In season two, Ryan's friends return to school as he strives to win the Action Sports Dew Tour. At the same time, career-driven Ryan longs for a "normal" teenage life, and hopes to meet the girl of his dreams. Miss season one and want to catch up? Go to MTV.com.

"Rob & Big," Jan. 8, 10:30 p.m., MTV.

MTV's odd couple -- skateboarder Rob Dyrdek and best friend/bodyguard Christopher "Big Black" Boykin -- return for season three of this hysterical reality series. Rob & Big look like they're up to their usual crazy antics in the new season, as they enter Mini-Horse in a competitive horse show, and throw a birthday bash for lovable Meaty the bulldog. Watch the silly season three trailer at MTV.com. This is the one season premiere I eagerly await! "Rob & Big" never fails to make me laugh.

"Make Me a Supermodel," Jan. 10, 10 p.m., Bravo.

In this take-off of the British series, Bravo looks for the next great supermodel. Twenty-four hopefuls will quickly be whittled down to 14, and the contestants will move into a New York City loft for 12 weeks. Viewers will pick the winner, who will receives $100,000 and a New York Model Management contract. Niki Taylor and Tyson Beckford host. I predict plenty of drama and romance on this show full of beautiful people.

"Scott Baio is 46... and Pregnant," Jan. 13, 10 p.m., VH1.

Another year older and wiser? Chachi recently married his longtime, pregnant girlfriend, Renee Sloan. Season one, which followed Scott as he endured two-month celibacy boot camp in an attempt to settle down, was endearing. I'm sure season two will be just as charming as Chachi prepares (I bet awkwardly) for fatherhood.

"Rock of Love 2," Jan. 13, VH1.

It's round two of Poison rocker Bret Michaels' quest for true love. Bring on the strippers looking for their 15 minutes of fame! So just who will rock Bret's world? Twenty new ladies will compete to win his heart. I hope last season's runner-up, Las Vegas stripper, Heather, makes a surprise appearance, a la New York in "Flavor of Love 2." I can't wait for more drunken, hair-pulling catfights.

"American Idol," Jan. 15, 8 p.m., Fox.

Fox's blockbuster hit show returns for its seventh season with a two-night, four-hour event Jan. 15 and 16. The audition round shows never fail to amuse. Tune in to see the talented -- and the deliciously awful -- auditioners from San Diego; Dallas; Omaha; Atlanta; Charleston, S.C.; Miami and Philadelphia.

"The Millionaire Matchmaker," Jan. 22, 11 p.m., Bravo.

Patti Stanger, who runs an L.A. matchmaking service for the rich, tries to help the wealthy find the mates of their dreams on this new series. According to Bravotv.com: "In each episode, two wealthy men are set up on dates with potentially compatible women, who are hand-picked by Stanger based upon their beauty and intelligence." Sounds like "Real Housewives of Orange County," only steamier!

"Survivor: Micronesia -- Fans vs. Favorites," Feb. 7, 8 p.m. CBS.

Yes, it's already time to outwit, outplay and outlast, as season 16 of the CBS show premieres next month. Die-hard fans will compete against "Survivor" alums. The alumni cast hasn't been announced yet; stay tuned to Reality Check and CBS.com for updates.

"Big Brother 9," Feb. 12, 9 p.m., CBS.

And I thought I'd have to wait for summer for one of my favorite reality shows. ... The special winter edition of the show will be hosted by Julie Chen. No word on a cast yet, but hourlong episodes will air Tuesdays at 9 p.m., and Wednesdays and Sundays at 8 p.m.