The Seven Network has announced Ant Middleton will host the Australian version of the world’s most exciting new format, Million Dollar Island, a revolutionary social experiment coming to Channel 7 and 7plus in 2023.
Best known as the Chief Instructor on Seven’s TV Week Logie Awards-nominated hit series SAS Australia, Ant is a much-loved master of extreme adventure with a positive mindset on and off the screen, spurred by his career in the UK’s elite special forces, including the Marines, 9 Parachute Squadron and Special Boat Service.
Ant Middleton said, “Million Dollar Island is must-see event television. Think The Hunger Games meets Lost… but not quite as brutal.
“This is a high-stakes challenge for regular, everyday Aussies. Literally anyone can apply. You don’t have to be the fittest or the strongest person to win big. Emotional intelligence and self-belief are key here. I can’t wait to see what the Aussie contestants have got, how well they know themselves and how far they’ll go to change their lives.”
Seven’s chief content officer, Entertainment Programming, Angus Ross, said, “Ant is the perfect choice to host Million Dollar Island. He is smart, tough and a brilliant strategist, qualities that will be invaluable as he immerses himself in the game play in what promises to be the most engaging and fascinating new series Australia has seen in a long time.”
Million Dollar Island is a ground-breaking concept in which 100 ordinary people try to stay on a remote island, vying for a chance to win $1 million – the biggest prize money on Australian TV. But braving the harsh conditions with limited means isn’t the only challenge on an island full of mystery and surprise, hardships and rewards.
Each contestant starts the adventure with a wristband worth $10,000. While they are on the island, contestants can gain and lose wristbands by competing in various games. They can also receive wristbands from other contestants. When someone gives up and decides to leave the island, they must give their wristband(s) to a contestant who stays behind.
Alliances mean everything. Friendships are worth a fortune. Some contestants will become richer by winning games and inheriting wristbands, while those who lose and fail to collect new wristbands must eventually go home. In the end, a nail-biting final game helps determine who walks away with a life-changing prize.