MTV’s ‘The Challenge All Stars’ Brings Back Fan-Favorite Rivals for Epic Season 5!

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To keep up with the phenomenal 40th season of MTV’s “The Challenge,” they are reviving one of the most beloved concepts for “The Challenge: All Stars.” As planned, this will happen when Season 5 premieres on Wednesday, January 29. Notably, it’s returning to its original broadcasting network, MTV, where it used to air (previously streaming on Paramount+).

Emer Harkin from EbMaster shares that reflecting on past seasons through a lengthy stroll down memory lane and catching up with everyone was an essential part of creating Season 5. With 13 teams of two, this season focuses on genuine rivalries and providing a genuine and significant starting point. As a favorite among fans, the team wanted to ensure they did justice to this well-loved season.

The “Rivals” concept was initially introduced in the year 2011, with “Rivals II” being aired in 2013, and the third installment coming in 2016. In this latest edition, certain players are joining forces with new adversaries (find them here!), such as Steve Meinke and Adam Larson, who had a disagreement during “All Stars” Season 4. On the other hand, some are being matched with opponents they’ve been feuding with for over a decade, like Veronica Portillo and Katie Doyle, who clashed in the 2004 series “The Inferno.” Additionally, there’s former lovers Ashley Kelsey and Dario Medrano, who were once in a relationship… but haven’t spoken for years.

In the following discussion, Harkin explains the process for casting “Rivals,” the transition from Paramount+ to MTV, the return of Ashley Mitchell and Turbo Çamkıran, and more.

Harkin goes over the details of casting for the movie “Rivals,” including its move from Paramount+ to MTV, the reappearance of Ashley Mitchell and Turbo Çamkıran, and other aspects.

“Rivals” has always been a popular topic since its introduction. What made you choose to reintroduce it in “All Stars”, instead of the main series?”

Emmer Harkin: We’ve been eager to produce “Rivals” for a long time now. We were searching for the perfect timing. With “Challenge 40” being such a massive season and us broadening our casting in season 40 to include many returning stars, we truly believed that this was the ideal moment to make “All Stars” even more distinctive, and revive one of the most cherished formats ever.

At what stage did you decide to move from Paramount+ to MTV?

John Doe: I can’t personally confirm the exact timing, but we are certainly thrilled about it. It’s wonderful news! The devoted fanbase for “The Challenge” is truly remarkable. Migrating to MTV is a fitting tribute to the franchise’s history on the legendary network where it originated.

It’s clear. Over time, there have been numerous conflicts between different entities. How exactly did you decide on these specific pairings?

Harkin: We examined every relationship, all the intricacies, the good times and bad, the peaks and valleys, for nearly every character from the entire series. This was a massive task. Our goal was to concentrate on genuine rivalries: What’s true? What’s ongoing? What’s been simmering for a while but still holds resentment? It was like a lengthy journey down memory lane and discussing with everyone about what’s transpired since other seasons. Essentially, it was about authentic rivalries and an honest and substantial starting point. Once more, this is a highly anticipated season, so we want to make sure we do it right.

Do you look at players you want back first, then who their rivals are? Or look right at pairs?

Here I Am: It’s all about the duos, the intricate dance of mutual connection. They go hand in hand, you can’t have one without the other. So, it was simply about examining these pairs and discovering what felt unique, what offered a fresh perspective, and unveiling beef that might be hidden from fans – those under-the-radar rivalries simmering in the background. Some of these feuds have been played out on social platforms or have graced our screens two decades ago.

With so many great choices at hand, let’s discuss the lineup for “The Challenge 40”. It was mentioned during its reunion show that Ashley Mitchell might have been a fitting addition. However, why bring her back for “All Stars”, but not for “The Challenge 40”?

Harkin: I didn’t participate in the selection process for show 40, but let me tell you, it was fantastic to have Ashley return! We were overjoyed about it. I am genuinely excited to see her back on screen again. I’m a huge fan of Ashley, and I believe this was an excellent opportunity to welcome her back in a truly unique, only-Ashley fashion. I couldn’t be happier about having the chance to work with her. I’m absolutely thrilled!

Fans of “The Challenge” often express strong opinions, and I’m no exception, regarding the cast selection. Not all are pleased that Turbo Çamkıran returned following his previous actions. Can you share some discussions you had about his return to the show?

Harkin: Many members of our cast experience highs and lows. Some may have had challenging past experiences, or perhaps they’ve made mistakes. We regularly discuss everyone with the cast about their progress, personal growth, and ongoing development – both on the show and off. This is something we are mindful of, and it plays a significant role in our casting decisions.

Since you’ve been associated with this franchise for quite some time, have you ever found yourself watching the cast members participate in other programs, such as “The Traitors?” Do you believe that their appearances on these shows help increase visibility for “The Challenge?”

Harkin: Yes, indeed! I’m incredibly proud of them all. It’s just fantastic to witness CT [Tamburello], Trishelle [Cannatella], Johnny Bananas, and now Wes [Bergmann] excel. I’m filled with pride for our cast, knowing they’re making their mark across various platforms. It’s a joy to see everyone appreciating the talent we have here. I’m incredibly proud of them, and I think it’s wonderful!

Alright, I know this is hard but who were you most excited to get back this season?

Harkin: Well, I must say, it was truly challenging. Melissa [Reeves] and Nicole Zanatta were bound to be intense, so I was all set for a spectacular display. The tension between Nany [Gonzalez] and Turbo is so palpable; when you’re in the same room with them, it feels incredibly real and raw. Watching their interaction was both emotional and captivating. Let me delve deeper. Veronica and Katie? They were nothing short of TV gold! Moreover, Ashley K. and Dario! Their relationship was one of the most significant in their lives, and this meeting was their first ever. It was all very real… There was such a wide variety of rivalries, and we’re incredibly proud of that. The diverse mix of conflicts we were able to present is genuinely entertaining.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

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2025-01-30 04:17