Channel 10 confirms Aussie Bachelor in Paradise is in the works

BIKINIS, backstabbing and free-flowing sex on the beach (the cocktails) — Bachelor In Paradise is set to be 2018’s must-see show. Confidential caught up with some of the hottest contenders to see if they would enter the mansion.

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BIKINIS, backstabbing and free-flowing sex on the beach (the cocktails) — Bachelor In Paradise is set to be 2018’s must-see show.

Channel 10 has finally announced it will produce a local version of the controversial reality spin-off.

International productions of the show have been smash hits with serious drama playing out on screen, as past ­contestants from previous seasons of The Bachelor and The Bachelorette live together on a deserted island.

The Bachelor and Bachelorette in Australia has seen big ratings — with Channel 10 confirming the franchise is set to expand with Bachelor in Paradise. Picture: Supplied

Confidential understands the production team is in talks with some cast mates, but the final cast is still up in the air.

Rumours are swirling that runner-up and fan favourite Nikki Gogan is said to be the big-ticket item for the series.

Media sources have said that the Western Australian, who was left heartbroken when she was dumped by Richie Strahan, flew to Sydney recently to meet with the production team.

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Fan-favourite Nikki Gogan seems like the popular choice for the show, but she would not make a comment when asked about the speculation. Picture. Brett Costello

Michael Turnbull is believed to be in talks with producers. Picture: Glenn Hampson

While Jake Ellis’ name has been thrown into the mix as a potential contestant. Picture: Jerad Williams

When contacted yesterday Gogan would not shut down the speculation. “I am not going to comment,” she said.

She would also not be drawn on questions about her interest or who she would like to see on the show.

Other names in the mix are said to include Jake Ellis from series two of The Bachelorette and Jen Hawke from the most recent Bachelor. The pair have admitted to hooking up in the past.

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Will controversial contestant Keira Maguire make a return? Picture: Tim Hunter

This year’s Bachelor “villain” Jen Hawke could be a ratings success for the spin-off. Picture: Darren Leigh Roberts

The show’s success would hinge on controversial characters. Sydney’s Keira Maguire would be a major get for the show as would Brisbane’s Michael Turnbull, and it is understood both are in contact with producers.

Yesterday both spoke to Confidential but said they could not comment.

Insiders suggest the show is a direct response to Channel 9’s Married At First Sight, which smashed its competitors in the ratings.

Insiders suggest Bachelor In Paradise will rival Channel Nine’s hugely successful Married At First Sight. Picture: Nigel Wright

“This will give Married At First Sight a run for its money,” one source said.

“The fact that audiences will already have a relationship to the cast will be a huge advantage.”

Who would you like to see return for a second chance at love? Comment below.