Canada has tried to follow in the U.S.'s (though, really, the U.K.'s) footsteps when it comes to reality shows. There was "Canadian Idol," "So You Think You Can Dance Canada," now there's "Top Chef Canada," "Wipeout Canada," "The Real Housewives of Vancouver" and "The Bachelor Canada," and next is the upcoming, much-anticipated "Big Brother Canada," which debuts in winter 2013.
I'm not really a fan of being locked up in a house full of loud, presumably obnoxious people (have you seen the U.S. version?), but apparently, I'm in the minority. Slice's national casting call drew in 10,000 applicants, eager to trade in their lives for a chance to live and compete in the camera-filled "Big Brother Canada" house.
"We have been blown away by the incredible response from Canadians throughout the casting phase of 'Big Brother Canada.' This is a series like no other, an extreme social experiment where people willingly walk away from their families, friends and day-to-day lives for nearly three months," said Barbara Williams, Senior Vice President of Content, Shaw Media, via press release. "Based on the excitement and passion of the thousands who have applied, we know that we'll find a legendary group of intriguing characters and big personalities for the inaugural season."
The "Big Brother" franchise, which originated in the Netherlands, has spawned nearly 50 versions across the globe. Canadian hopefuls waited in person in Vancouver, Calgary, Halifax, Montreal and Toronto in September and October, as well as submitted videos online, for the chance to be part of Canada's first season. John Brunton, Chairman, CEO and Executive Producer, Insight Productions, insists it's a must-watch series because "this group of houseguests will be completely unique" and, most importantly, "completely Canadian." Awesome, eh?
Go here for more information on "Big Brother Canada," or visit the show's Facebook page. You can also follow it on Twitter.
