After several weeks of long trips, grueling stages, and challenging competitions, the big final of “71 Degrees North – Norway’s Toughest Celebrity” was finally here.
Tonje Frigstad (24), Espen Abrahamsen (31), and Espen Rostrup Nakstad (49) were this year’s finalists competing for first place.
After an intense race between Frigstad and Nakstad, it was the latter who ultimately emerged victorious and could call himself “Norway’s Toughest Celebrity.”
– It was really fun to win 71 Degrees North. But the most important thing was to complete all the stages. And to make it all the way to Lindesnes. And I am very pleased that I managed that, Nakstad tells TV 2 and adds:
– I had a good feeling in the final stage that I was going to win. And on the second day of the final, I was quite sure that I would succeed.
WINNER: After several weeks on the road, Espen Nakstad returned home victorious from ’71 Degrees North – Norway’s Toughest Celebrity’. Photo: Håkon Borge Fredriksen / TV 2
No Aftertaste
“71 Degrees North – Norway’s Toughest Celebrity” was the 49-year-old’s first encounter with reality TV, and despite a great experience, Nakstad says it didn’t leave him wanting more.
– I want to hike more, but you won’t see me in “Kompani Lauritzen” or “Shall We Dance.” I made an exception here because it was a very fun hiking concept, he says.
Nakstad explains that winning wasn’t very important to him and that he didn’t think much about the competition.
– The most important thing for me was to be on the trip. I would have joined even if there hadn’t been a single camera present.
FINALISTS: Espen Abrahamsen, Tonje Frigstad, and Espen Nakstad were this year’s finalists. Photo: Matti Bernitz
Back to Work the Day After
The 49-year-old recounts that it was a big transition coming home from the expedition.
Despite being away for several weeks, Nakstad was back at work the day after he came home.
– I had taken time off on the exact days I knew there could be a trip. So unfortunately, there wasn’t much time for me to relax and enjoy the experience, he says and adds:
– Coming back to work was a bit difficult, because many were curious where I had been. Additionally, I also had some pretty severe chafing on my neck from a wetsuit that I had swum in for quite a long time during the final.
Has Not Received Winner’s Prize
Nakstad won a fully electric Toyota bZ4X worth 480,000 kroner.
In the final episode, we see Nakstad driving away in the newly polished car from Toyota. Despite this, he still has not received the prize, even though the filming took place earlier this year.
The press contact at Discovery, Marianne Aambø, writes in an email to TV 2 that the prize will not be presented until after the final has aired.
– The reason it isn’t presented until after the final is that we don’t want the winner to be revealed before the final is shown, naturally, she writes.
What was Espen Nakstad’s most memorable moment during the competition on “71 Degrees North”?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Espen Rostrup Nakstad
Editor: Welcome, Espen, and congratulations on being crowned “Norway’s Toughest Celebrity” in the finale of “71 Degrees North!” How does it feel to win such a prestigious title?
Espen Nakstad: Thank you! It feels incredible, but I have to say, the biggest accomplishment for me was completing all the stages of the competition and making it to Lindesnes. The sense of achievement from that is what I cherish most.
Editor: That’s inspiring! The competition must have been quite intense. Can you walk us through your emotions during the final stages?
Espen Nakstad: Absolutely. During the final leg, I had a really good feeling that I was going to clinch it. On the second day of the finale, I was quite convinced I could win. It was a blend of excitement and determination that kept me focused.
Editor: You mentioned that this was your first encounter with reality TV. Was there a moment or experience that stood out as particularly memorable during the show?
Espen Nakstad: There were definitely many unforgettable moments throughout the journey. The camaraderie formed with the other competitors, especially fellow finalists Tonje Frigstad and Espen Abrahamsen, was amazing. The landscapes we traversed were breathtaking too!
Editor: It seems like a transformative experience! After competing, do you think you’ll pursue more reality shows in the future?
Espen Nakstad: Honestly, I don’t think so. While it was a fantastic experience, I’m not interested in shows like “Kompani Lauritzen” or “Shall We Dance.” I made an exception for “71 Degrees North” because the concept of hiking while competing was unique and appealing to me. But, going forward, I prefer hiking without the cameras.
Editor: That makes sense! Speaking of hiking, how has this experience influenced your perspective on outdoor activities?
Espen Nakstad: This competition reignited my passion for hiking. It reminded me of the pure enjoyment that comes from being in nature. I want to spend more time outdoors, exploring new trails and appreciating the beauty around me.
Editor: That’s wonderful to hear! Lastly, if you could offer any advice to someone considering participating in a challenging competition like this, what would it be?
Espen Nakstad: I would say go for it! Embrace every moment, focus on completing each stage, and cherish the friendships you build along the way. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the journey, the experiences, and the memories you create.
Editor: Wise words, Espen! Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We wish you all the best in your future hiking adventures!
Espen Nakstad: Thank you so much! I appreciate it.