The popular reality show Sortez-moi d’ici made its highly anticipated return to TVA on Sunday, April 13, 2025, with a thrilling first episode of its third season. This season, hosted by Rosalie Vaillancourt and Guy Jodoin, promises to be packed with excitement and challenges that push contestants to their limits.
In the opening challenge, three contestants—Brigitte Lafleur, Naadei Lyonnais, and Gino Chouinard—were confronted with their fear of heights. The challenge took place on the 53rd floor of the JW Marriott, the tallest building in Central America, standing at 215 meters (approximately 705 feet) above the ground. The contestants had to cross a precarious 30-meter plank bridge, and they only had five minutes to complete the task. Each contestant who successfully crossed in under the time limit earned two stars for their team.
Despite their fears, all three contestants bravely completed the challenge. Brigitte Lafleur, known for her fear of heights, was the first to step onto the bridge. Her determination was evident as she pushed through her anxiety, saying, "Instinct doesn’t want you to participate in this challenge." She managed to cross the bridge and earned two stars. Gino Chouinard and Naadei Lyonnais followed suit, each also earning two stars, bringing the total to six stars out of a possible six for the team.
Fans of the show took to social media to express their admiration for the contestants. Comments flooded in, praising their courage and determination. One viewer remarked, "Wow, bravo Gino, Brigitte, and Naadei! Not sure I could have done that!" Another viewer shared, "Brigitte, I felt so stressed watching you! Your words about your daughter were deeply touching." The support from fans highlighted the emotional connection viewers have with the contestants.
This season features several new contestants, including Marc-Antoine Dequoy and Kim Rusk, who were introduced alongside Brigitte, Gino, and Naadei. While the latter faced their fears of heights, Marc-Antoine and Kim participated in a separate challenge that involved a new twist for this season.
In addition to the height challenge, the first episode introduced another group of contestants: Chloée Deblois, Pascal Morrissette, and Jeff Boudreault. They faced their own set of challenges involving creepy creatures, including insects and other animals. Jeff had to dive into viscous barrels, while Chloée put her head into holes filled with cockroaches, snakes, toads, and scorpions. Pascal faced tarantulas in a pool. Together, they managed to earn three and a half stars out of a possible six.
Meanwhile, Kim Rusk and Marc-Antoine Dequoy tackled a unique challenge in a pool filled with fish, frogs, and caimans. They had eight minutes to find as many numbers as possible hidden in the pool, ultimately finding seven out of eight, which showcased their teamwork and determination.
As the contestants returned to camp, they were rewarded with a meal consisting of duck, turkey, opossum, and chicken necks, which they prepared after a long day of challenges. The camaraderie among the contestants was evident as they worked together to make their camp life comfortable, despite the limited resources available to them, including minimal toilet paper and basic food supplies.
This season has introduced several intriguing elements, including a mysterious bunker, a well with a voice that gives instructions, and a soiled pool that contestants must navigate. The production team has promised that this season will be more intense than ever, with an increase in the number of challenges from 60 to 90 minutes per episode. Viewers can expect a variety of thrilling tasks that will keep them on the edge of their seats.
As the episode concluded, viewers were left with questions about the whereabouts of two contestants, Sonia Vachon and Jean-Michel Anctil, who were not present during the first episode. Their absence sparked speculation about whether they would be part of the show's challenges in the future. Additionally, the episode ended with a cliffhanger involving a mysterious crate dropped by a helicopter, which emitted eerie sounds, leaving fans eager for the next episode.
The contestants are not just competing for glory; the winner of this season will have the opportunity to donate $50,000 to their chosen charity, adding a layer of purpose to their challenges. Last season averaged 1.6 million viewers, and with the new twists and challenges, this season is poised to capture even more attention.
As the contestants embark on their adventures in Panama, they demonstrate resilience and bravery, proving that they are willing to face their fears and push beyond their limits. With the first episode setting the stage for a thrilling season, fans are already looking forward to the next installment of Sortez-moi d’ici. Don't miss the show every Sunday at 7:30 PM on TVA and TVA+ as the excitement continues to unfold!
