Norway Expands Reality TV Offering with Local Adaptation of "Werewolves"

Banijay Entertainment has announced the expansion of the popular reality format Werewolves into Norway, with Mastiff Norway set to produce the show for broadcast on TV 2. This adaptation joins a growing list of international productions, now encompassing four territories worldwide. 

Concept Overview

In this strategic reality game, players gather in a secluded forest village as Villagers, tasked with uniting to claim a cash prize. However, the twist lies in the presence of hidden Werewolves among them, whose goal is to eliminate competitors one by one. The Norwegian version will be titled Varulv: Et spill om list og bedrag and will feature 16 celebrities, all hosted by Truls Svendsen and Oskar Westerlin. Following its successful debut in the Netherlands—where it reached the Top 10 shows on Disney+—the format is poised for Norwegian audiences. 

This format taps into a fascination with social deduction games, a trend that has gained traction in recent years. The blend of strategy, deception, and a cash prize has a proven appeal. Audiences find themselves invested in not just the outcome but also the journey: alliances, betrayals, and psychological warfare unfold in real-time, making for compelling television. Traditional reality shows have occasionally been criticized for lacking depth, but formats like this one add layers of complexity that invite viewers into the fold.

Creative Insights

Hege Vik Hansen, Creative Director at Mastiff Norway, shared her thoughts on the project: “We were attracted to Werewolves because it adds a unique dimension to reality TV. Each player approaches the game with individual roles and agendas, which fosters a rich mix of strategy and deception. Our adaptation will carry a distinct identity, with Truls and Oskar injecting humor and hosting flair, enhancing the viewing experience.”

Hansen's comments address a critical point: the need for personality in hosting. Reality TV thrives on not just the structure of the competition, but also the interactions among participants and their responses to the hosts. Truls and Oskar's humor and charisma could make or break the show's reception. And this is the part most people overlook: a host can elevate a show from forgettable to must-watch just by their ability to command a room, or in this case, a forest.

Broader Market Appeal

Helen Greatorex, Head of Format Acquisitions for Banijay Entertainment, highlighted the show's market potential: “Werewolves is meeting the demand for social strategy formats capable of local customization. After its successful Netherlands launch, welcoming Norway to our portfolio marks an exciting advancement as we prepare for MIPCOM.”

Greatorex's observation sheds light on a wider trend in television: the desire for content that feels both familiar and fresh. With reality formats often requiring local flavor, the success in one market doesn't guarantee the same in another. Instead, the adaptability of the show to local nuances might be the differentiator—something that Banijay seems prepared to capitalize on. The expectation is that audiences in Norway will embrace this unique twist on social strategy, joining their Dutch counterparts in diving into the complex web of lies and strategy.

Strategic Development

Moe Bennani, CEO of Dreamspark, emphasized Norway's readiness for this show: “The country has a proven track record of turning psychological games into prime-time entertainment. This adaptation allows for hidden roles that only the audience will uncover, with seasonal reveals and a beautifully filmed forest setting creating a captivating backdrop. Norway's adaptation placing the format on a bold trajectory showcases the growing opportunities still available.”

Bennani’s comments reflect an understanding of the Norwegian viewership’s tastes. The audience here has historically shown a strong appetite for programs that engage the mind and challenge social dynamics. By framing the narrative around suspense and strategy, Mastiff Norway could create content that not only entertains but fosters community discussions and shared experiences among viewers. If you're working in this space, it’s clear that the Norwegian landscape presents fertile ground for such explorations.

International Expansion

Arnaud Chautard from Jaad Productions expressed pride in the show's international growth: “We are thrilled to see Loups-Garous extending its reach globally. The ongoing interest in our format reinforces its quality, and we take immense pride in its escalating success.”

This expansion speaks to a larger industry trend where successful formats are increasingly being adapted for different cultures and demographics. Originally aired on Canal+ in France in 2024, the concept of Werewolves stems from the cult board game Les Loups-garous de Thiercelieux, created by Philippe des Pallières & Hervé Marly and distributed by Asmodee. The show’s immersive approach translates the classic board game experience to the screen, enhancing audience engagement.

Future Outlook and Implications

The journey of Werewolves has implications beyond just entertainment; it signifies the increasing globalization of television formats. As audiences become more interconnected via streaming platforms, the demand for localized adaptations of successful shows becomes critical. Banijay Entertainment's strategy signals a growing trend: content creators are placing greater emphasis on social interaction and strategic gameplay. The success in multiple international markets could pave the way for more reality formats that merge interactive gameplay with cultural narratives, appealing to viewers' desires for both engagement and entertainment.

Banijay Entertainment has secured distribution rights across various markets, including the US, Australia, the UK, and many others. Alongside other original productions, Werewolves will feature prominently in Banijay's lineup at MIPCOM, showcasing a wide array of unique properties.

Mastiff Norway, known for its diverse programming portfolio, encompasses both factual and entertainment genres, with noted successes such as The Summit and Paradise Hotel. The company's expertise positions it well for executing a high-quality adaptation of this intriguing format.

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