‘Fear Factor’ reboot: New host and what to look forward to
“Fear Factor” is getting a reboot in a new network, but fans will not get to see Joe Rogan again. The revival of the stomach churning show will be hosted by Ludacris.
MTV has announced the return of “Fear Factor,” which will target the millennial audience. The show will introduce a spin that could involve new stunts. This means there might be less gross challenges such as eating worms or being buried with creepy insects.
Instead, the reboot will revolve around common things that make the younger generation feel challenged. These include rescuing cell phones at heights of over 100 feet, couch surfing at 300 feet and hurdling a challenge known as "Roach-ella."
New challenges
MTV, VH1 and Logo president Chris McCarthy assured that the reboot is going to be fresh for the new generation. He said they will test the physical, mental and emotional strength of the contestants as well as their ability to overcome their fears.
“Each episode will provide contestants the platform to test their physical, emotional and mental strength, as well as the opportunity to overcome their biggest fears. No two episodes will be alike. We’re not about grossing out for gross out sake,” he told The Hollywood Reporter.
New host
“Fear Factor” first launched on NBC in 2001 and wrapped up in 2006 after six seasons. The show was then hosted by Rogan. The network revived the series in 2011, where Rogan returned as host. However, it was cancelled in May 2012.
As for the upcoming reboot, Ludacris is set to remind viewers at the beginning not to perform the stunts. The “Fast and the Furious” actor recently inked a deal not only to host the game show but to produce it executively as well.
McCarthy was asked if Rogan will be involved in the show. “No, but you never know who may pop up,” he teased. Meanwhile, original executive producers Anthony Carbone and Kevin Wehrenberg will return alongside Charles Watcher, Rob Smith and Robin Feinberg.
Contestants
Each hour-long episode will feature eight contestants pairing up in four teams. The participants could be siblings, college rivalries, roommates, best friends, co-workers or even exes, MTV said. They will face off for the prize of $50,000 per episode.
“Fear Factor” will premiere on MTV US on May 30 at 10 p.m. No information as of yet regarding the release date in Down Under. Australia had a version of the show aired on Nine Network in 2002. It was, however, cancelled after only two episodes.
