CBC’s reality show, The Assembly, is making a comeback for its second season, featuring six fresh celebrity interviews and an expanded group of over 30 neurodivergent and autistic adults posing the questions. Notable figures like Hudson Williams (Heated Rivalry), Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover), and Jay Baruchel (This is the End) will be among the celebrity guests facing the heat.

The upcoming six-episode season will showcase personalities such as actor and Miss Universe Canada Ashley Callingbull (North of North), artist Lights, and three-time Olympic hockey gold medalist Marie-Philip Poulin. Each celebrity will undergo a no-holds-barred interview, delving into unexpected and personal topics beyond the usual promotional discourse.

The show will see a mix of familiar faces from its debut season along with fresh participants, maintaining its appeal by fostering candid conversations, genuine connections, and moments of humor. Adapted from the French series Les Rencontres du Papotin, which launched in 2022 with guests like Camille Cottin and French President Emmanuel Macron, The Assembly has gained international traction, featuring renowned personalities such as Antonio Banderas, Michael Sheen, David Tennant, and Stephen Fry.

The previous season of The Assembly garnered accolades including a Canadian Screen Award for best direction, three Telly Awards, a Golden Sheaf Award at the Yorkton Film Festival, and a Banff Rockie Award nomination. Executives Jennifer Dettman and Stephen Sawchuk express excitement for the new season, promising more of the show’s heart, humor, and genuine dialogues that resonate with viewers.

Produced by Vancouver-based Small Army Entertainment, the second season of The Assembly premieres on Sunday, Nov. 1, at 9 p.m. ET on CBC TV and CBC Gem. Exclusive “producer’s cuts” will be accessible only on CBC Gem starting at 9 a.m. ET on the same day.