Factual
‘The Next Joe Millionaire’ is a cowboy
LOS ANGELES: The first Joe Millionaire wooed his way into the hearts of gold-digging women with horses, jewelry and expensive meals in the US. The Next Joe Millionaire is hoping to ride away with another ratings bonanza by convincing 14 beauties that he is a wealthy oil baron worth $80 million.
David Smith, a 24-year-old Texas rodeo cowboy who makes $11,000 a year roping steers and riding bucks, admits he had his work cut out for him in persuading sophisticated women that he was the man of their dreams.
“It’s funny cause I’m not an actor, I’m not a model, I’m just a cowboy and I love to rodeo, and I was at a rodeo when they asked me to come to this show, which I had no idea was Joe Millionaire,” Smith said.
Producers of The Next Joe Millionaire had to find European women to be in the show, because it was nearly impossible to find Americans who hadn’t heard about the twist of the first hugely popular Joe Millionaire – so the follow-up will feature competitors with names such as Petra, Giada, Jerusha, Olinda and Alessia from countries such as the Czech Republic, Sweden, Norway and Germany.
Like the first Joe, Evan Marriott, Smith said deceiving the women wasn’t always easy. “It got tough, there were times I didn’t even want to be there, like literally I couldn’t take it anymore, lying to them, ’cause I felt bad,” he said. “But the lie was that I inherited $80 million from my uncle, and my family is real close and we’re all in the oil business, so it made the lie easier to remember.”
Another complicating factor was that these ladies are nothing like the ones Smith’s used to dating. “Cowgirls are great too, there’s nothing wrong with cowgirls. These women are more into fashion and style. My concern is I’m a cowboy and I don’t know what Gucci is.”
However, the job had its perks. “These girls were all outgoing, good-looking, very smart girls, they made my time enjoyable,” Smith said.
The Next Joe Millionaire: An International Affair will premier on 20 October on the Fox channel in the US.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
