A+E Networks® Asia’s leading factual entertainment brand, History, premiered the return of the star-studded, rollicking automotive reality entertainment series, Celebrity Car Wars, sponsored by Caltex, last Monday.
The show returns with six new popular, socially connected, outspoken, pampered and coiffured celebrities on an eight-week journey of automotive discovery. Viewers will find out if their favorite personalities, now without their drivers and minders, could actually drive – and drive competitively.
Newly introduced to Celebrity Car Wars is a quiz segment that tests the celebrities on the knowledge they pick up during the series and general automotive history. Incorrect answers will crush their egos and more.
Star of the History hit series Storage Wars (currently airing on Tuesdays 9 p.m.), Jarrod Schulz, becomes the first star from the U.S. to be featuref in Celebrity Car Wars. While he wastes no time getting along with his fellow celebrities, this is the first time Jarrod is in production in Asia and his second ever visit to the region, and could take time to adapt. He is also without Brandi Passante, his long-time girlfriend, business partner and co-star of Storage Wars – his usual voice of reason.
Enjoying home ground advantage is the glamorous and sophisticated Filipino model, actress and TV anchor Phoemela Baranda. Having raced many times previously, she looks to tap on her competitive experience and skill sets for an advantage over the rest. Her determination to win could make all the difference.
A force to be reckoned with, petite Thai actress Aerin Yuktadatta’s belies the firecracker that she becomes in the heat of the competition. She is a go-getter and not one to shy away from any challenge. Aerin is not afraid to bring the fight and can be hard on herself, if she feels she could have done better.
In comparison, fellow Thai actor, model and singer Guy Ratchanont Suprakob is mellower, brings calm, as well as works fast with his quick hands and feet. However, Celebrity Car Wars could bring back some sad memories for Guy who lost his mother in a car accident seven years ago, which he claims to have had a premonition of.
Harith Iskander, comedian, actor and host, known as Malaysia’s “Godfather of Stand-up Comedy” and U.S. comedy chain Laugh Factory’s “Funniest Person in the World”, is certain to bring the laughs. However, it remains to be seen if he can compete on the racetrack. Viewers could be in for some surprises from the 50 year old who is the most senior member of the cast.
With Hong Kong-based model and TV personality Dominic Lau being a licensed pilot, driving will surely be simple for the hunk. Fans can be sure his competitive streak will push his driving to the limit. In the heat of the contest, Dominic still manages to hit it off with Jarrod and Guy to hilarity.
Professional racing experts, Malaysia’s Alex Yoong, as well as Gaby de la Merced and Michele Bumgarner from the Philippines return as mentors to impart tricks of their trade to the new stars.
Last season, the mentors focused only on preparing the celebrities, but a simmering rivalry between the professionals is set to be settled on the track too.
Singapore-based host, actor and DJ, Bobby Tonelli is back as host of Celebrity Car Wars to preside over the competition with his great energy and enthusiasm. The celebrities compete for points towards the ultimate prize of joining inaugural champion, KC Montero, in the Hall of Fame. The Filipino host and actor won the first season, which premiered in August 2016.
A motor racing designer is also giving the rides a sensational new look to rival the spectacle of the star-studded cast. Nissan GT-R, Nissan Silvia, 4 wheel drives, all terrain vehicles and dune buggies are among the array of cars offering the celebrities rides to remember. Expect even more thrilling challenges and sharper twists, demonstrating what the improved Caltex with Techron fuels can do on any journey.
Celebrity Car Wars Season 2 features more unexpected locations in the Philippines, such as the active volcano Mount Pinatubo; the decommissioned U.S. naval base at Subic Bay; and the abandoned nuclear power plant in Bataan. The production is a major undertaking involving 48 cameras including two drones.
Beyond the fun and competition, this season is also made extra meaningful as the celebrities will find the opportunity to interact with the indigenous Aeta people living in the mountainous regions of Luzon, and contribute supplies to their village.
Produced by Emmy-winning activeTV, Celebrity Car Wars won the Gold award for “Best Idea – Content Marketing” at the MARKies Awards earlier this year.
History® is available on SKYCable Ch 67; Cable Link Ch. 43; Dream Satellite Ch 30; Destiny Cable Ch 57; and CignalTV Ch 125.
