Not only was “Die Brug” one of the most popular reality shows on kykNET last year but the first South African version of the international format, has scored an Emmy Award nomination.
Die Brug has been nominated for an International Emmy Award in the category for Best Non-Scripted Entertainment. The nominations were announced in New York.
“When Marguerite Albrecht, one of the commissioning producers at kykNET, suggested in May 2022 that kykNET adapt the international format ‘Die Brug’ for our viewers, we knew something exciting was coming,” said Waldimar Pelser, M-Net’s Director of Premium Channels.
“The end product, produced by Red Pepper, provided our viewers with immense enjoyment.
“To receive international recognition for an Afrikaans production filmed near the picturesque Swellendam in the Southern Cape is immensely gratifying. And the second season will be airing on kykNET next year.”
“Die Brug” is based on the international format ‘The Bridge’ and the first season aired on kykNet in October last year.
The show places twelve strangers in a remote wilderness in the vicinity of Swellendam. Their task is to build a bridge within 20 days in the hope of walking away with prize money of R1 million.
In the process of constructing a bridge to reach the prize money, there are twists and turns that challenge the status quo. The players’ social skills, moral values, physical and mental strength and endurance are all put to the ultimate test.
“‘Die Brug’ is one of those rare reality shows that come along from time to time that turn the genre on its head. We’re proud to have been able to adapt a top-notch international format for our local market – and produce such an amazing local version,” said Nomsa Philiso, CEO: General Entertainment at MultiChoice Group.
“’Die Brug’ is a very special format and somewhat of an enigma to produce,” says Cecil Barry, CEO of Red Pepper.
“Working with kykNET on this wonderful format was indeed a great adventure and privilege. We are proud and excited about this Emmy nomination, especially because it brings international recognition to kykNET and Red Pepper,” added Barry.
The first season of “Die Brug”, produced by Frederick Louw and Lindi Lucouw from Red Pepper, is currently available on Showmax, and filming for the second season will begin soon. The broadcast date for the second season on kykNET in 2025 will be announced later.
The winner of the first season of “Die Brug” was Robert Kruger, a former rugby player from Pretoria.
The International Emmy Awards ceremony will be held on November 25 in New York.
The other nominees in the category for which “Die Brug” is nominated, are “Anything Goes” (Mexico), “Restaurant Misverstand” (Belgium) and “The Summit” (Australia).
IOL Entertainment