I don't enjoy the format of the show such as the director's narrating and the annoying interns but as a graduate history major in ancient cultures, I appreciate the show for revealing the dirty world of archaeology. You have to deal with rude people, bureaucracy, preservation, interpretation, etc. The sad truth is that the general public does not want to see Dr. Hawas, an icon for historians and archaeologists, in an unflattering manner because he is the face of Egyptology----a very popular topic for people around the world. Many people do not like his opinions and his attitudes, but have any of you read his research and books? He has contributed a lot to this field and has helped bring Egyptology back to Egypt when was usurped by the British for decades.
If you ignore the B.S. such as the interns, meltdowns, and emergencies and listen to what Dr. Hawas is explaining such as the shawabtis and the "gang" tombs. This is great material! Also, everyone of the crew members and interns were told of the dangers of this assignment. If you have claustrophobia, do not get into a cramped space! If you are uncomfortable, do not do it. Dr. Hawas informs each one of them about these dangers.
Look past the crap and you'll find gold...just like the archaeologist wading in sand before he finds something. :)