Pig Royalty

The show Pig Royalty is an intriguing, distinct, and refreshing addition to the discovery+ lineup which was premiered in 2021. The series provides a fascinating glimpse into a competitive realm many may not be aware of - "the high stakes, hard work, and glamour of the Texas youth pig showing circuit." This unscripted docuseries illuminates an unusual swath of rural culture while also serving up a compelling family rivalry - think Hatfields and McCoys, but with show pigs instead of feud and gunfire.

Set against the backdrop of Texas, a state known for its deep-seated traditions and unique cultures, Pig Royalty dives into the world of highly competitive pig shows. In this niche yet rigorously fought contest, children as young as five right up to the age of eighteen devote immense time, painstaking effort, and considerable passion to raising, nurturing, and training their pigs. These competitors aim to produce the perfect pig specimen for judging at renowned livestock shows. The rewards for winning competitions can be substantial, with college scholarships and hefty cash prizes up for grabs.

The series focuses primarily on two prominent, rival families immersed in the cut-throat business of pig competition - the Baleros and the Rihns. These championship-winning clans have their unique styles, strategies, and fiercely competitive spirit. The Balero family, helmed by matriarch Michelle, boast numerous victories and have a 'win at all cost' attitude that helps them stand out in every competition. Known for their ruthlessness and dominance over the pig showing circuit, they are definitely not to be messed with.

On the other hand, you have the Rihn family, led by Jody and Ty Rihn. Unlike the Baleros, the Rihns portray a more understated, "play fair" approach towards competition. They believe in integrity and sportsmanship in the face of challenges and contest, often clashing with the Baleros' ethos.

Pig Royalty follows the journey of these families as they traverse through the various complexities and high-pressure situations inherent in their unique line of competition. The families put everything into the venture - time, resources, and their hearts. Balancing this unique lifestyle with the day-to-day tasks of average family life is an undercurrent theme of the series.

Get ready to be hooked on this unique Texas-style competition: pig bathing, pig training, feed science, and profile building- it’s all part of the game in this show. There's plenty of drama too - be it between the competing families or within the circle of the dedicated and passionate teen participants, who are keen to make their mark in this all-consuming endeavor.

The visual narratives comprising Pig Royalty also offer a stark view of the variance in rural vs urban America. The series showcases vast Texas landscapes, with scenes of daily life that reflect the cultural ethos of the region. It’s a unique perspective into a corner of American life that is rarely featured on television.

Pig Royalty, ultimately, embarks on portraying a fascinating, unpredictable, sometimes tumultuous, but definitely passionate journey with these families in the pig showing circuit. The series beautifully blends elements of rivalry, resilience, dedication, family bonding, and unmistakable Texas appeal, woven together with the shared love for these prized creatures.

Although the premise might seem out of the ordinary to some, Pig Royalty has an absorbing and entertaining narrative that not only tells a story of sport and competition but also the contribution it brings towards the community and the personal growth of its young contestants. Viewers will be drawn in by the meticulous pig grooming, intense competitive arenas, and the colorful characters that frequent this unique, often high-pressured world.

Be ready to root for your favorite hogs as much as the charismatic families bonding over them. Get prepared to step into a world you probably didn't know existed as Pig Royalty breaks down preconceived notions, brings you face-to-face with determined competitors, and provides a firsthand look at the highs and lows of competitive pig showing. It's a wild, Texas-sized ride that you would surely not want to miss.