We viewers from the lower 48 understand most of these shows have fake melodrama grafted over normal Alaska life.  Like Sue A. busting her shoulder doing an unnecessary and foolish stunt urged by the producers.  However, the hard weather, wild creatures, beautiful vistas, isolation, frisky Salmon are not fake and what draw us.  Also, how could you not mention the big kahuna of Alaska reality shows that started it all - Deadliest Catch.