Channel 4's The Hunt: Prey vs Predator Reality Show Filmed in Bulgarian Forest
Rifle shots echo through the air as participants bolt through 100 acres of thick, Bulgarian forest, where coyotes and aggressive wild boars are known to roam. This alarming environment sets the stage for Channel 4's brand new reality adventure series, The Hunt: Prey vs Predator, where contestants are designated as "Prey" in a high-stakes game.
On location, rigorous health and safety checks ensure no unexpected predators appear, aside from human ones wearing bright red bibs. The Prey wear cool, neutral blue bibs, creating a visual distinction in this giant game of tag. The series mixes elements of Squid Games and Traitors, with extra challenges to accrue a £100,000 cash prize and a nightly elimination ceremony called The Cull.
Post-Apocalyptic Setting and High-Tech Challenges
Channel 4 commissioner Lee McMurray explains that the distinctive backdrop intentionally combines elements of dystopian woods from The Hunger Games with the futuristic vibe of Dune and Star Wars. This mash-up of aesthetics aims to create a unique world for the show. The ominous rifle shots heard in the forest are fired at a nearby range, adding to the post-apocalyptic atmosphere without actual danger.
Contestants wear a high-tech "gauntlet" mini-computer attached to their arms, which bleeps to alert them to map locations deep within the trees. Here, they must dash to complete challenges. A team of 25 people, who previously created tasks for Netflix's Squid Games, developed 30 challenges for Prey to complete and collect money during The Hunt.
Strategic Gameplay and Diverse Cast
One challenge, called The Drop, involves catching 16 lightsabre-style blue rods before they hit the floor. Successfully completing it adds £1,000 to the prize pot, but Predators can swoop in to steal the cash. During The Cull, Predators are eliminated from the competition based on votes from the remaining Prey.
Lee McMurray notes that in The Hunt, what happens in the forest is inextricably linked to outcomes, strategy, and relationships at base camp, making both aspects equally compelling. While physical fitness is required—applicants and crew passed basic fitness tests—strategy is paramount. The most physically able Predators pose the largest threat and are most at risk for elimination, leading to a diverse and interesting cast.
Contestant Experiences and Production Scale
An early favourite contestant is former model Shelley, aged 72, who spends her time hugging trees, practising yoga, and reapplying lipgloss. She jokes about having "PTSD" from the forest experience, where contestants faced heavy rainstorms and baking heat over three weeks. Despite challenges, she found the experience transformative, learning to push her limits.
Fellow contestant Mia, a social media influencer, adds that the experience taught her to love herself and never doubt her abilities again. The production involved a massive operation, with a 600 sqm temporary studio village and over 250 people on site. Camera teams clad in camouflage filmed contestants trying to hide, while a highly-trained lawyer, Julie, acted as an adjudicator for disputed captures.
Despite mud, rain, heat, double-crossers, and bugs, cast members agree it was some of the most fun they've ever had. The show blends silliness with serious competition, creating a unique reality TV experience. The Hunt: Prey vs Predator streams on Channel 4 from Sunday, 22 March at 9pm.
