BLACKBURN presenter, AJ Odudu, will be back on our screens tonight as she fronts a gruelling reality TV competition.

Channel 4’s The Bridge: Race to a Fortune is back for a second series and the first episode starts tonight (7 June).

There’s double the drama and double the money up for grabs as two teams go head to head to be the first to get their hands on a £200k jackpot.

AJ will present presents the eight-part series in which 16 strangers come together for the chance to win the big cash prize, but unaware of the epic challenge required to take the money home. 

In this new series, made by Manchester-based Workerbee, a Banijay UK company, the contestants must put egos and differences aside to tackle the ultimate test of physical ability, mental skill and teamwork.

Going head to head, the teams face a race to build a bridge over 1,000 feet of water in just 12 days to reach the cash held on top of ‘Fortune Rock’.

But will whoever reaches the money first choose to share it with their teammates?

Adventurer and explorer Aldo Kane joins the competitors in the paradise islands of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, overseeing the challenges that will test the teams’ nerves and ability. He’ll make sure no one reaches the jackpot without giving it their all.

Along the way, the teams will face surprise dilemmas and devious temptations that disrupt the whole competition as we discover who is prepared to deceive their teammates for their own personal gain. Working together is key, but in this pressure-cooker environment everyone must decide who to trust and where their allegiances lie. 

AJ Odudu said: “The opportunity to front The Bridge has happened almost serendipitously. From the Strictly Ballroom I have taken off onto my next, new adventure. Literally.

“It's so exciting to front a show that promises to push the envelope and I know The Bridge is going to be bold, full of excitement and filled with plenty of drama. Bring it on.”

Aldo Kane said: “Over the last 25 years, I have been operating in some of the world’s most extreme, remote and hostile locations, but this is one of the highest-stake missions I’ve ever worked on. For those involved in the challenge, if they can survive the pressure, this could be a truly life-changing experience, for more reasons than just the prize money.

“The cash won’t come easy though, I am looking forward to putting the team through their paces and stretching their every fibre, from morals and emotions to basic campcraft and survival. This hybrid formula from Workerbee is going to be epic!”

Phil Harris, Channel 4’s Head of Entertainment & Events, said: “We are really excited work with HBO Max and Workerbee to bring viewers more of this mischievous reality-challenge hybrid show.

“AJ was a phenomenal host on The Big Breakfast, so I am thrilled she is joining to guide us through the action whilst Aldo reminds us just what an incredibly tough task this is.”

Steve Handley, commissioning editor for Channel 4, said: “I’m thrilled The Bridge is returning, with AJ at the helm and Aldo guiding the team through the adventure.

“It may look like paradise, but our cast of ordinary folks are going to have to achieve the extraordinary to get their hands on the prize. I can’t wait to see if they can do it!”

Managing Director of Workerbee and Executive Producer Rick Murray, said: “We thought that building The Bridge in Wales was an epic challenge given the physical and mental endurance needed as well as coping with the Welsh weather.

“But this second series is in another league. Contributors might have a sunnier climate to enjoy, but the challenge will be far tougher with some devious twists and turn to throw them off course from day one.”

It's not the only presenting gig lined up for the former St Bede's High School pupil.

AJ is hosting Channel 4’s The Big Breakfast reboot, which will air later this year. 

The Bridge: Race to a Fortune starts 7 June on Channel 4 at 10pm.