The 10th stage of the popular reality show "Pékin Express" is set to transport contestants back to the era of the gold rush in South Africa. On Thursday, March 20, 2025, viewers will be captivated by contestants traversing the historic routes once traveled by gold prospectors, visiting landmarks such as Pilgrim’s Rest and the renowned town of Cullinan.
Cullinan holds special significance in diamond history; it is famously known as the site where the largest uncut diamond, weighing a staggering 3,106 carats, was discovered in 1905. As the competition progresses into its quarter-finals, the show's structure promises not only a showcase of adventure but also a deep dive into South Africa's historical narrative.
Initially, the quarter-finals will kick off with a vibrant music-themed challenge that is sure to bring a sense of humor and levity to the intense competition. However, as the stakes heighten, the iconic black flag will return with a menacing presence, signifying that the competition's intensity will ramp up even further. Contestants will put forward strategies that viewers have never seen before in previous seasons, which will undoubtedly escalate the tension on-screen.
Moreover, the episode will provide a unique opportunity for contestants to connect with the families of local miners. Such interactions promise to be poignant, as competitors will hear firsthand accounts of the struggles and sacrifices these families endure. “Some candidates will meet the families of miners in the region,” which will add an emotional layer to the narrative. The exposure to these real-life stories will highlight the hardships and sacrifices associated with the miners' profession.
As for the show, it continues to attract a formidable audience. The first 9 episodes of the 20th season have averaged around 1.59 million viewers during the initial airing, capturing 8.4% of viewers aged four and up. The following segments have subsequently kept the attention of about 1.22 million viewers on average, indicating a steady interest and engagement from the audience.
Excitingly, M6 has recently confirmed the premiere date for the finale of this season's "Pékin Express: La route des tribus légendaires." Set to air on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 9:10 PM, the finale will follow the semi-final, which will take place on Thursday, March 27, 2025. This launch timing has come as a surprise, especially since M6 will kick off season 5 of their other reality show, "Les traîtres," just days later on April 3, 2025. This strategic scheduling is reminiscent of previous seasons where M6 made unexpected programming decisions, generating buzz and audience speculation.
Among the contestants vying for glory in the current season are Étienne and Judith, Patricia and Adrien, Mattéo and Esméralda, and Cécile and Marion. These teams are striving to replicate the success of last season's winners, Jean-Claude and Axel, who triumphed in the finale that aired on October 19, 2024. As audiences follow their journey through challenging tasks and unexpected twists, the anticipation builds for who will ultimately be crowned the next winners of "Pékin Express."
With the combination of historical exploration, personal stories, and competitive spirit, the 10th stage of "Pékin Express" promises to deliver an unforgettable episode. Viewers can look forward to a mix of entertainment, emotional storytelling, and the thrill of competition as contestants delve deeper into both their challenges and the rich mining heritage of South Africa.
