Rechristened the Great American Rescue Bowl, the new show will not only feature adorable kittens but will now be inclusive of puppies as well mature cats and dogs. All the furry friends will be rescues from shelters across the nation. They will all be available for adoption too (unless they’ve been adopted since the show’s taping). Since its inception in 2014, Kitten Bowls have resulted in over 75,000 shelter pet adoptions nationwide. Unfortunately, it was too late to record a Great American Rescue Bowl for this year’s Super Bowl, but GAC Family will be ready to air next year on Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023. “The plight of animal homelessness continues to be pervasive throughout the country, so being able to televise a proven difference maker in helping pets find their forever homes was an easy decision,” said GAC Family CEO Bill Abbott, the former head of Hallmark Channel. “I couldn’t be more excited that ‘Great American Rescue Bowl’ is coming to GAC Family,” said Beth Stern, TV host, foster parent and national spokesperson for North Shore Animal League America. “Hundreds of shelters across the country have participated throughout the years and tens of thousands of animals have been adopted as a result of these special events. I look forward to continuing the rich tradition of representing our kitten players and saving lives.” “We are thrilled that ‘Great American Rescue Bowl’ will be returning in 2023,” said Joanne Yohannan, SVP, Operations, North Shore Animal League America. “Sharing stories of our lifesaving work and highlighting the beautiful, homeless animals available for adoption in shelters across the country is such a meaningful way to save lives and helps us continue our mission to rescue, nurture, adopt and educate.” The Kitten Bowl rescue follows a familiar pattern for the former CEO of the Hallmark Channel. Abbott has “rescued” others shows and actors from Hallmark Channel in recent months including When Hope Calls, the spinoff from Hallmark Channel’s When Calls the Heart that was not picked up for a second season. Abbott also made sure to include Lori Loughlin in the When Hope Calls Christmas movie after she was ousted from Hallmark Channel for her involvement in the college admissions scandal. GAC also recently signed multi-picture deals with Danica McKellar, Jen Lilley and Trevor Donovan—all who were regularly featured actors on Hallmark Channel. While the actors’ deals do not make them exclusive to GAC, it’s likely the actors won’t be doing much Hallmark fare with their now-busy GAC schedules. Look for the Great American Rescue Bowl in 2023. Next, Everything We Know About the 2022 Puppy Bowl, Including How to Watch and How to Adopt!
