‘Amazing Race Canada’ casting producer has tips on what makes a great team

CTV News' Ian White interviews Jesse Storey, casting producer of 'The Amazing Race Canada'.

Jesse Storey admits he’s witnessed his fair share of arguments in the 11 seasons he’s worked on The Amazing Race Canada—so many, he jokes he could be a marriage counsellor.

“I could be (a counsellor) after this!” Storey told CTV News.

Storey is the casting producer for the CTV reality competition series and goes on the road with the contestants during the race.

“It’s beautiful. I’m honoured to have helped all these teams over the years tell their stories to Canadians. That’s one of the great things we do. Yes, it’s a competition but it’s a beautiful platform to tell stories and to inspire Canadians,” he said.

Monday, Dec. 15, is the deadline for Canadians to enter to become competitors on season 12 in 2026.

And if you think you have to be in peak physical condition to compete, Storey says to think again.

“Truly, it’s more mental than physical,” Storey said of the skills needed to compete.

He singles out Nipiy and Magoo, the Edmonton couple who lost their backpacks in the first episode in season 11, argued with each other but persevered until the final episode.

“They were gritty and they were determined and they didn’t quit and they made it all the way to the finale,” he said.