A lot can change in a year – just ask any of the contributors in the new season of This Time Next Year.
Vowing to change their life in the space of 12 months, these brave Aussies journey through unimaginable circumstances to see it through – and what transpires is inspiring.
From overcoming phobias and finding love, to facing a serious medical condition, no individual is the same. Yet they all share one trait: a true-blue fighting spirit.
This Time Next Year not only makes its return to screens after a two-year hiatus, but also brings back its host, Karl Stefanovic, to our TV screens.
The long-time former co-host of Nine Network’s Today controversially left the breakfast show in 2018 and hasn’t been on air since.
Speaking to TV WEEK, Karl, 44, says TTNY is the perfect vehicle to not only to return to television, but to do what he loves best: sharing real stories.
“It’s a brand new season and, right from the start, audiences at home will know the pledges are bigger and bolder than last time,” the 2011 TV WEEK Gold Logie Award winner says.
“I’ve met some truly inspiring Australians who will warm viewers’ hearts. I’ve been blown away.”
In This Time Next Year‘s first ep, we meet Eden.
In the series return, Karl meets 16-year-old schoolgirl Eden. Just over a year ago, she was diagnosed with a rare form of Tourette Syndrome and was forced to leave school after routinely fainting.
On the This Time Next Year couch, Eden pledges to overcome her condition enough that she’ll be able to catch a bus on her own and return to the classroom.
“This series has been a joy to work on,” Karl says. “And I’m not going to lie, I shed a tear or two.”
As Eden shares her story, the hardships of her adolescent life are evident – but so is her ongoing resilience and hope. This young woman has her eye on completing the HSC and graduating with her fellow students.
Later in the episode, a mother and daughter vow to lose 100kg between them, while a young couple endeavour to become first-time parents.
TTNY is full of inspiring tales of overcoming adversity. But its also a timely reminder to be positive and strive for your goals. That’s reason enough to tune in.
This Time Next Year airs Monday August 10 at 8.40pm on the Nine Network
