The Filipino sketch comedy show Abroad makes its highly anticipated return with the launch of its fourth season. This unique series, co-created by Isabel Kanaan, draws inspiration from her personal journey as a Filipino immigrant living in Canada.
In the latest season, Kanaan has indicated that the show will delve deeper into the themes previously introduced, particularly focusing on the profound aspects of family love. Kanaan, reflecting on her new role as a mother, noted that this experience provides ample new material for storytelling. “Another thing with this season is, because I am a new mom, we have a lot to talk about for the next generation, 'cause now that is me,” she shared in a recent interview with OMNI News.
Since the show closely mirrors her own life experiences, Kanaan finds it easy to generate fresh ideas. “Every season we’re like ‘I can’t think of anything,’ and then boom, there’s still more,” she remarked, emphasizing the continual evolution of their narrative. Kanaan believes that the vibrant Filipino culture remains ever-present, producing new stories regularly. “We just have to live it, right?” she added, highlighting the importance of cultural representation in the media.
Viewers can look forward to the return of their favorite characters in this upcoming season, as Kanaan expresses her hopes for the future of Abroad. She envisions expanding the show’s universe in subsequent seasons, suggesting the possibility of beloved characters interacting with new ones. “Our beloved characters, maybe meet other beloved characters, and you know it’s like a clash and the evolution of the Abroad world,” she explained.
Kanaan emphasizes the significance of Abroad in providing visibility to the stories of Filipinos in Canada. She recounts her own experiences, stating, “The reason why we made the show in the first place was because when I moved to Canada, I didn’t see my stories and myself on TV.” This notion resonates with the ongoing influx of newly arrived Filipinos in Canada, as Kanaan aims to create a welcoming space for them through the show. “I wanna give them a space of like ‘hey hey hey I know what you’re going through, here’s Abroad!'” she conveyed.
Fans can catch the fourth season of Abroad airing on Sundays at 8 p.m. on OMNI Television, as the show continues to provide a platform for Filipino narratives and cultural exploration within the Canadian landscape.
