CBC’s popular unscripted show, The Assembly, is set to return for its second season, featuring six new celebrity interviews and a diverse cast of over 30 neurodivergent and autistic adults posing the questions.
Celebrities such as Hudson Williams from Heated Rivalry, Zach Galifianakis of The Hangover, and Jay Baruchel from This is the End will be among the guests in the spotlight. Additionally, other notable figures like actor and Miss Universe Canada Ashley Callingbull, singer-songwriter Lights, and three-time Olympic hockey gold medalist Marie-Philip Poulin will also be featured in the six-episode season.
Each celebrity will engage in candid and unpredictable interviews, delving beyond the usual promotional discussions to touch on personal and unexpected topics. The show aims to create real connections and moments of honesty, often leading to revelations and laughter within the same conversation.
The show’s concept is inspired by the French program Les Rencontres du Papotin, which debuted in 2022 featuring guests like Killing Eve star Camille Cottin and French President Emmanuel Macron. The format has gained international acclaim, with adaptations worldwide including appearances by actors Antonio Banderas, Michael Sheen, David Tennant, and Stephen Fry.
The first season of The Assembly garnered accolades such as a Canadian Screen Award for best direction, three Telly Awards, a Golden Sheaf Award at the Yorkton Film Festival, and a nomination for a Banff Rockie Award.
CBC’s executive director of unscripted content, Jennifer Dettman, and executive producers Stephen Sawchuk and Sean De Vries express excitement for the new season, promising more heartfelt conversations, humor, and genuine interactions that resonate with viewers.
Produced by Vancouver-based Small Army Entertainment, The Assembly Season 2 premieres on Sunday, November 1, at 9 p.m. ET on CBC TV and CBC Gem. Exclusive “producer’s cuts” will be available on CBC Gem starting at 9 a.m. ET on the same day.
