Format

Fremantle has secured the international distribution and production rights to "The Advent Calendar", a heartwarming and original holiday-themed dating format in which a single person embarks on a special journey to find love in time for Christmas by opening 24 doors of an oversized advent calendar.

Created by Sphere Media in partnership with Bell Media for the streaming platform Crave, the series mixes the charm of holiday-movie magic with playful, real-life dating elements. Over the 24 days of December, the hopeful romantic opens a new door in each episode to reveal potential suitors and delightful seasonal moments, embarking on a truly one-of-a-kind dating adventure.

Guided by a beloved comedian and host — affectionately known as the “fairy godmother” — the participants are taken on a range of dates filled with romantic surprises and humorous situations. On the final day, only one contender can be selected to receive an extra-special gift and accompany the lead to their family’s Christmas dinner.

Vasha Wallace, EVP, Global Acquisitions & Development, Fremantle, said: “We fell in love with 'The Advent Calendar' the moment we saw it - a supersized Christmas calendar guiding someone on their search for love is instantly iconic. It’s charming, imaginative and full of festive sparkle. Sphere Media have created something truly special, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with them again, following the success of The House of Secrets, to bring this joyful Christmas dating format to audiences around the world”.

Renaud Chassé, President, French Language Creation and Production, Sphere Media, said: “We imagined 'The Advent Calendar' as a joyful and inventive Christmas story that renews the dating genre. Developed with Bell Media, the series embraces both playfulness and heart. Its early international momentum is truly exciting, and we are delighted to partner once again with Fremantle to share its festive charm with audiences around the world.”