Active TV

Canada's Mantracker Reaches Australia

MIPCOM NEWS: Australia is getting its own version of outdoor reality series Mantracker thanks to a deal between local prodco ActiveTV and Canada's Kelencontent. 

ActiveTV (The Amazing Race Australia, Opposites Attract) said in Cannes that it will make its own version of the long-running series. 

Each episode follows as an experienced outdoorsman and his sidekick attempt to track and catch a team of two less experienced contestants before they reach the finish line. 

The trackers are on horseback but don't know where the finish line is. The prey have a map, a compass and 36 hours to cross 40km of rugged terrain. 

The original show has run on Canada's OLN for seven seasons and is also seen in the US on Discovery Science Channel. 

ActiveTV has the rights for Australia and New Zealand. Its version will have Bear Grylls (Man vs Wild) leading the chase, joined by an indigenous local guide. They will track contestants through the Aussie Outback, rainforests and mountain ranges - more challenging territory than the crocodile-free forests of northern Canada. 

The deal is the first format sale for Mantracker. 

"We're very excited about bringing this hit Canadian format to Australia and anticipate a great response from the Australian networks," said Amanda Peppard, VP of development at ActiveTV.

Sean Davidson 
4 Oct 2011 
© C21 Media 2011