Honestly, who on Earth knows how to build a bridge?!
Launching exclusively on Paramount+, The Bridge is a global reality phenomenon where twelve strangers meet on the shore of a deserted lake in the remote Tasmanian wilderness and together they have to build a 330-metre bridge in just 17 days, using just their bare hands and basic tools.
If they’re successful, one contestant will claim a whopping $250,000 cash prize and be faced with the ultimate dilemma: Keep it for themselves or share it with the others. During the 17 days, as the bridge is built, the players will see flares catapulted from their island destination at various intervals, alerting them to twists in the game and changes that can help or hinder their fellow teammates. The first to race to the flare’s landing point controls the outcome of the twist!
We spoke to contestant Justin, an adventurer with a home ground advantage, to find out more about this outrageous challenge and why he wanted to be part of it.
Justin, this show has given us anxiety before we’ve even seen it. What made you want to sign up for it?
I love a challenge and have severe FOMO so it would have been harder to not go for it. I want any excuse I can to jump into the bush and I really wanted a holiday from the kids!
What do you have that sets you apart from the other players?
I really know how to suffer. Hardship and tough times in the wild are old friends to me. The harder the conditions, the stronger I will be.
I’m also a pretty social character so I think I’ll get along with most of the people there. Also when you set me a task and I’m invested in it, I don’t fail!
How on Earth does one just build a bridge out of nowhere?
I don’t know! Any tips? I haven’t got the best building experience but that said I will always figure something out once I’m presented with a challenge. We’re really going to have to work together as a team, otherwise this isn’t going to get completed.
Aside from building an enormous bridge, What do you think the biggest challenge will be?
Dealing with the big personalities on the show. There will be physical and mental hardship but I am sure there will be people that are super green when it comes to the outdoors. Helping and managing the team dynamics will be the hardest part.
Also, I don’t know how to approach this show. I know I’m going to be focused on the task and not wanting to play strategic games but no doubt, other people will have the opposite philosophy! That mismatch will be tough to deal with. I also get kind of hangry, so hope we have enough food!
There’s $250k up for grabs here. What will you with the prize money if you win, and will you share it with your fellow teammates?
I will definitely share it. I’ve worked with a lot of teams in my life and to set yourself apart from everybody else when they put in equal work is just not my style. In fact, I have been on the receiving end of kindness and generosity on some of my expeditions so there is no way I would take it all for myself!
I would either put it towards the dream farm my wife and I have always wanted, or we’re thinking of growing our family (from two-to-three kids).
The Bridge is available to stream on Paramount+ from Friday, 29 August.
