Chilevisión heads back to ‘The Farm’ as Fremantle format returns after 18 years

The Farm (Finland)

Chilean broadcaster Chilevisión is bringing back Fremantle format The Farm (La Granja) to the country after almost two decades off screens.

The reality series was originally broadcast on Chilevisión from 2002-2005 and follows a diverse group of novice farmers who are plunged into the realities of working on a farm with no 21st century mod cons, personal luxuries, electricity, running water or access to technology.

The group live and work together, with a view to providing food on the table and contributing to successful community living. One-by-one a farmer is eliminated following a duel that tests two farmers against each other with competitive strategy and harmonious living.

The format originated in Sweden in 2001 and has so far been adapted in more than 30 countries, including the UK, Brazil, France, Norway and Spain, with a deal struck last year by Mediaset, with Fremantle to produce a series for the Spanish broadcaster.

Sheila Aguirre, EVP of co-production and distribution, Latin America and Hispanic US, at Fremantle said: “We are proud to be working with Chilevisión to bring this wholesome format back to audiences in Chile. The simple concept of The Farm is what gives it such mass appeal and we can’t wait to see how the farmers get on when they go back to basics. I’m sure there will be lots of memorable moments to look forward to.”

Francisco Espinoza, director of programming at Chilevisión, added: ‘It’s great that we have been able to license The Farm from Fremantle, as it has been part of an expansion plan for our entertainment offering, which we have been consolidating since 2018. The Farm is a format that meets all the attributes we are looking for in a great entertainment show.