Don’t worry: You’ll still get to see kittens on Super Bowl Sunday… just not this year.
Soon after the Hallmark Channel’s cancellation of the Kitten Bowl, GAC Family has announced Great American Rescue Bowl, set to premiere next year on Sunday, February 12, 2023. The special event will showcase the many talents of adorable kittens, puppies, cats and dogs available for adoption at shelters throughout the US. More details, including information on adoption events, parties, special guest appearances, and rosters will be announced at a later time.
Courtesy of GAC Family
“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,” Bill Abbott, President and CEO of GAC Media, said in a statement. “We’re incredibly proud to welcome Great American Rescue Bowl to GAC Family and are excited about this massive, fan-favorite event being an annual anchor to the network’s pet-centric programming.”
Added Beth Stern, TV host, foster parent and national spokesperson, North Shore Animal League America, “I couldn’t be more excited that Great American Rescue Bowl is coming to GAC Family. 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.”
Great American Rescue Bowl will be presented in association with North Shore Animal League America. The feline game is credited with facilitating more than 75,000 shelter pet adoptions since it premiered in 2014.
“We are thrilled that Great American Rescue Bowl and bowl watch parties 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.”
GAC Family is also the new home for Hallmark’s When Hope Calls (the spinoff for When Calls the Heart) as well as some of its former stars including Danica McKellar.
Great American Rescue Bowl, Sunday, February 12, 2023, GAC Family
