Format

Foreverism is a concept that resonates deeply across industries, but particularly in entertainment. According to Mouseler, Foreverism is not about nostalgia or dwelling on the past with sadness. “There’s no loss in Foreverism,” she explained. “It’s about continuously making the past present. The past is not something we mourn; we bring it forward and reimagine it.”

In the TV industry, Foreverism manifests as reboots and revivals. Mouseler pointed out that reboots now make up 8% of new entertainment and game shows, a significant rise compared to just 1% four years ago. This trend suggests that viewers continue to seek familiarity while craving fresh twists on established favorites.

One of the freshest trends presented by Mouseler is the rise of game formats inspired by classic board games. She highlighted the new French series Werewolves, which premiered on Canal Plus. In this life-sized adaptation of the classic party game, 13 contestants claim to be villagers, but three are secretly werewolves. The challenge lies in unmasking the hidden enemies.

This type of IP demonstrates the adaptability of traditional games in the entertainment landscape. Beyond the game show format, such properties can evolve into scripted series or even movies, as IPs travel seamlessly across platforms and genres. For example, the reality game show No Return, which originated as a Canadian scripted series, will debut in 2025 on Cray, an Esport channel.

New Formats: Reality, Strategy, and Mystery
Mouseler continued with an overview of upcoming projects that blend reality with high-stakes strategy and mystery. A standout example is The Box, set to premiere on Norway’s B2 network in January. The show will place 12 celebrities in separate boxes, with no knowledge of where they are or what their next challenge will be. The psychological tension of being isolated and unaware creates a compelling new angle in the reality competition space.

Another innovative concept introduced was The Ring, developed in the Netherlands. Contestants must race to enter rings that appear in random, often treacherous locations such as rooftops of skyscrapers or deep underground. Those who fail to reach the ring in time face elimination, while survivors unlock new, more challenging locations. The ultimate prize? The coveted "Ring of Eyes." The show merges physical endurance with online gaming elements, creating a cross-platform experience aimed at engaging today’s multi-screen audiences.

Emotional and Adventure-Driven Shows
For those seeking adventure with a more emotional core, Backpack of Life is a format to watch. Airing on Belgium’s VRT1 later this year, the show sends eight celebrities on a journey to Mount Kilimanjaro, where they face personal and emotional challenges. What sets it apart from typical adventure series is the emotional depth — the real journey lies in the self-discovery and the mysterious cylinder that accompanies each celebrity.

Mouseler emphasized that while action-packed formats have their place, audiences are increasingly drawn to shows that blend adventure with human stories. Formats like Backpack of Life strike a balance between the thrill of physical challenges and the vulnerability of emotional exploration.

Another key part of Mouseler’s presentation focused on content for younger audiences, particularly in the realm of digital-first programming. She took attendees on a virtual walk through “the digital garden,” showcasing Silence is Golden, a UK-based format where contestants must avoid making any noise. This playful and simple premise taps into the growing trend of low-pressure, non-verbal game shows that appeal to younger demographics.

Meanwhile, on Denmark’s DRTV, Exposed plays with the idea of social media self-image. Contestants must navigate public spaces without being recognized, bringing elements of hidden-camera shows to the fore. This type of format plays with the blurred lines between social media and reality, a concept that resonates strongly with Gen Z audiences.

Mouseler’s “Fresh Around the World” session concluded with a few hidden gems and exciting new formats that could make waves in the coming years. One of the most intriguing was Together or Never, a game where couples must convince others of their authenticity — even if they’ve never met before. The twist? Two out of five couples are fake, and it’s up to the real couples to expose the imposters.

Finally, Mouseler teased an upcoming branded show on Channel 4’s YouTube channel, where celebrities must organize a fake funeral for a friend. This quirky concept promises to blend dark humor with a touch of the absurd, showcasing the endless creative possibilities that come with today’s TV formats.

Virginia Mouseler’s presentation at MIPCOM reaffirmed that we are living in a time where the past, present, and future blend seamlessly together. The concept of Foreverism is not just about reboots; it’s about finding ways to continuously reinvent and repurpose familiar ideas for new generations of viewers. Whether through life-sized board games, emotional adventures, or digital-first formats, the future of TV is all about crossing boundaries, genres, and platforms — and it’s a future full of endless possibilities.