Seven’s “secret weapon” to combat the cancellation of the Tokyo Olympics is a blockbuster and star-studded revival of popular ’90s reality show Who Dares Wins.
But even before it began filming, the Aussie celeb version SAS Australia was thrown into turmoil because of COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Luckily, that hasn’t stopped it from going right ahead.
According to reports, Seven has splashed millions on this reinvention of the popular 1990s reality show, which was co-hosted by cricket legend Mike Whitney and presenter Tania Zaetta, who have not been recruited to host this time around.
That said, we’re confident in the new format – and even more confident in the tantalising cast – a literal melting pot of Aussie talent and social-influencers (both good and, er, not-so-good).
“This is [the network’s] big ticket item for 2020 and has been kept top secret,” an insider exclusively reveals to Woman’s Day, adding that the cast members are being paid about $150,000 each to participate.
The celebrities will have to earn their big pay cheques, with the “recruits” expected to get down and dirty for military-style training.
It will see the contestants tackle a notoriously difficult program in some harsh environments, and will replicate the Special Air Service selection process.
And as the premiere date finally falls upon us, we thought it pertinent to take a look at each of the personalities who’re about to go the extra mile on our screens.
From admirable sportspeople to some of the most controversial Aussie names of the last two decades – keep scrolling for everyone set to battle it out on SAS Australia.
Want more news on SAS Australia? Check out the stories below!
Backlash is rife as Arabella Del Busso becomes the newest addition to new reality show SAS Australia
Ali Oetjen
Ali Oetjen, The Bachelorette
Former Bachelorette Ali has already proved she’s a fitness guru – and we’re about to see her put her skills to the ultimate test as she competes in her toughest challenge yet.
james magnussen
James Magnussen, Olympic swimmer
Swimmers are known for their strength and precision – so we’re pretty sure former Olympic swimmer James is going to bring one hell of an A-game.
Candice Warner
Candice Warner, Ironwoman
As a former Ironwoman, Candice Warner is no stranger to putting in the hard yards – we reckon she’s a shoo-in for a solid result on the show.
Jana pitman
Jana Pittman, Olympic athlete
Another Olympian, Jana Pittman knows what it takes to come out on top.
Schapelle Corby
Schapelle Corby, famous for being convicted of smuggling cannabis into Indonesia.
Perhaps better tested in mental rather than physical strength in the past, Schapelle Corby will undoubtedly bring some must-see drama to the show.
Molly
Molly Taylor, rally car champion
Molly is a girl boss in all aspects of the phrase, we can’t wait to see this car racing guru tackle the SAS slopes.
Erin
Erin McNaught, former Miss Universe Australia.
A mum and model, Erin McNaught will be tested in ways she’s never been before – we reckon she’s got a backlog of strength to use.
Arabella del Busso
Arabella Del Busso, former WAG
Controversial Arabella isn’t afraid to speak her mind, we’ll be intrigued to see how she reacts when put through the gruelling challenges on the show.
Eden
Eden Dally, Love Island star.
Reality TV was Eden Dally’s forte, but we reckon he’s been going extra hard at the gym to prepare for this new gig.
Firass
Firass Dirani, actor
Underbelly actor Firass Dirani is a familiar face to many (for… obvious reasons) so we can’t wait for him to get some more air time, gruelling challenges or not.
Merrick
Merrick Watts, comedian
Merrick knows how to spin a funny yarn, but will it translate to physically demanding challenges? Time will tell…
Nick Cummins
Nick “Honey Badger” Cummins, The Bachelor and rugby player
He quickly became the most notorious Bachelor of all time, but the Honey Badger knows a thing or two about being mentally and physically challenged.
Shayna Jack
Shayna Jack, swimmer
Best known for her controversial doping scandal, we can’t wait to see what swimmer Shayna jack brings to the show.
Sabrina Frederick
Sabrina Frederick, AFLW player
Women’s AFL player Sabrina is set to bring her precision and skill, as well as her own unique personality to the show.
Shannan
Shannan Ponton, fitness professional
Fitness pro Shannan could bring a few tips to his castmates… or utilise his own advantage.
Mitchell Johnson
Mitchell Johnson, cricketer
A sportsman and impassioned athlete, Mitchell Johnson is no doubt reading to come in steaming.
jackson warne
Jackson Warne, son of cricketer, Shane Warne
Jackson Warne is a model by day, and potential SAS gun… by night? Guess we’ll have to wait and see.
roxy jacenko
Roxy Jacenko, PR queen
PR maven Roxy Jacenko isn’t shy of a controversy or three – let’s see how she takes the limelight in this, er, slightly different atmosphere to the lights and glamour of the public relations world.