Fremantle has acquired international distribution and production rights to the original festive-themed date format, the Advent Calendar. In this format, one single person opens the 24 doors of a larger-than-life advent calendar and embarks on a journey to find love in time for Christmas.
The series, produced by Canada’s Sphere Media in collaboration with Bell Media for Canadian streaming platform Crave, combines “the magical charm of holiday movies with a playful real-world date,” Freemantle said.
Over 24 days in December, our hopeful romantic protagonists will “embark on a unique dating experience” as they open new doors in each episode, revealing potential suitors and “enchanting” seasonal experiences. As information comes to light, the single people waiting behind each door compete to win their hearts by Christmas, hoping to be invited into their homes to meet their families.
Guided by the “beloved” comedian and host affectionately known as the “Fairy Godmother,” players are taken on a variety of dates with romantic twists and funny moments. On the final day, you can choose only one suitor to receive a special gift to accompany your family to Christmas dinner.
Filmed in a “fantasy-built world filled with festive decorations,” the bright series “brings classic Christmas fairy tale dreams to life,” Freemantle said.
Vasha Wallace, executive vice president of global acquisitions and development at Fremantle, said: “We fell in love with Advent Calendar the moment we saw it. An oversized Christmas calendar that takes someone on a quest for love is instantly iconic. It’s charming, imaginative and full of festive sparkle. Sphere Media has created something truly special, and following the success of The House of Secrets, we’re thrilled to be partnering with them again to bring this to life.” Bringing a fun Christmas date format to audiences around the world. ”
“We envisioned Advent Calendar as a fun and original Christmas story that redefines the dating genre. Developed with Bell Media, this series embraces both playfulness and heart. Its early international momentum has been truly exciting, and we’re delighted to partner with Fremantle once again to share its festive charm with audiences around the world,” said Renaud Chassé, Sphere Media president and president of French language production and production.
“Advent Calendar” will air on Bell Media’s streaming platform “Crave” as daily episodes starting December 1st and as long prime-time episodes until Christmas Eve.
