Special Forces Season 4 has returned to television with more intensity, emotional twists, and celebrity moments than ever before. Premiering on September 25, 2025, on FOX, the new season dropped contestants into some of the harshest physical and mental tests on reality TV. Within days of its debut, the show has already delivered dramatic exits, heated confrontations, and unforgettable scenes that have U.S. viewers glued to their screens.
A Star-Studded and Surprising Cast
The lineup for Special Forces Season 4 is one of the most talked-about in the show’s history. Eighteen celebrities from reality TV, sports, entertainment, and social media came together to face military-style challenges designed to test their endurance and mental toughness.
Among the most notable names this season are Jussie Smollett, Teresa Giudice, and her daughter Gia Giudice, who make history as the first mother-daughter duo to take part. Jessie James Decker and Eric Decker bring a married couple dynamic to the mix, while Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson East joins alongside her husband Andrew East, adding star athletic power.
NFL fans will recognize Randall Cobb and Johnny Manziel, both bringing their competitive spirit to the course. The cast is rounded out by reality TV personalities such as Brittany Cartwright, Eva Marcille, Kody Brown, Chanel Iman, Ravi V. Patel, Brianna LaPaglia, Mark Estes, and others who each bring their unique personalities to the extreme environment.
The directing staff, made up of elite former special forces operators, return to put the celebrities through intense drills. Known for their no-nonsense approach, they strip away fame and comfort, pushing the recruits to confront fear, pain, and vulnerability.
Extreme Challenges in a New Environment
This season is set in the rugged landscapes of Morocco, adding a harsh climate to the already demanding challenges. Contestants face blistering heat, unpredictable terrain, and military exercises inspired by real special forces training.
Early tasks have included underwater escape drills, navigating tunnels in the dark, crossing urban structures at extreme heights, and intense team missions that require precision under pressure. One chilling moment involves contestants being told they “may potentially die” if they fail to follow instructions — setting the tone for just how real these drills are.
Early Drama and Shock Exits
It didn’t take long for Special Forces Season 4 to deliver unexpected drama. In just the first two episodes, several high-profile contestants have already left the competition in emotional and intense circumstances.
Brittany Cartwright was one of the earliest to exit, leaving just hours into the course. She admitted feeling overwhelmed both physically and emotionally, calling the experience one of the most challenging moments of her life.
Eva Marcille experienced a frightening medical incident during a submerged aircraft simulation. Although she initially handled the task well, she required rescue assistance after becoming disoriented underwater. Medical staff pulled her from the challenge, and she was removed from the competition for safety reasons.
Teresa Giudice, known for her fiery personality, made the emotional decision to withdraw after struggling to adjust to the harsh environment and witnessing the toll the tasks were taking on her daughter, Gia. Her departure created emotional ripples among the cast, particularly as Gia chose to stay and continue the course.
These early exits highlight the grueling nature of the series. Unlike many reality shows, there are no eliminations — contestants leave only when they physically or mentally cannot continue, or when the staff determine they are unfit to proceed.
Jussie Smollett’s Return to the Spotlight
One of the most talked-about participants this season is Jussie Smollett. After years of legal controversy and intense media scrutiny, he is using this platform to reintroduce himself to viewers. Throughout the early episodes, he has spoken openly about how the public has perceived him and seems determined to push through the challenges to prove something to himself and others.
His presence has sparked conversation among fans, with some applauding his determination and others debating whether he can withstand the intense psychological and physical trials ahead.
Cast Tensions and Personal Struggles
Beyond the physical demands, emotional and interpersonal tensions are already bubbling up. Mark Estes has admitted to confronting fears he didn’t know he had, including heights and enclosed spaces, which have tested his resolve. Gia Giudice has hinted at difficulties bonding with certain cast members, including Kody Brown, whose personal history has been a point of contention among some participants.
These dynamics add another layer of intrigue to the season. Viewers aren’t just watching celebrities complete tasks — they’re watching alliances, rivalries, and moments of vulnerability unfold in real time, with no scripted safety net.
How to Watch in the U.S.
For American audiences, Special Forces Season 4 airs every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Episodes are available to stream the following day on Hulu, making it easy to catch up if you miss the live broadcast. The show can also be watched through several live TV streaming platforms that carry FOX, ensuring a wide range of viewing options.
Why Special Forces Season 4 Stands Out
Several factors make this season one of the most compelling yet:
- Controversial Casting: The inclusion of Jussie Smollett has reignited national conversations and brought new attention to the series.
- Unique Pairings: Teresa and Gia Giudice’s mother-daughter participation introduces emotional stakes not seen before.
- High-Risk Challenges: From Moroccan deserts to underwater drills, the physical tasks are more dangerous and cinematic than in previous seasons.
- Real Consequences: Early medical evacuations and voluntary withdrawals underscore that this isn’t a game — it’s a genuine test of willpower.
- Evolving Storylines: With several strong personalities and unresolved tensions, the human drama is just as intense as the physical trials.
As the season continues, viewers can expect even tougher challenges, unpredictable departures, and possibly some surprising redemption arcs as contestants push themselves beyond what they thought possible.
Special Forces Season 4 is proving to be a must-watch blend of grit, celebrity vulnerability, and unscripted intensity. Whether you tune in for the challenges, the cast dynamics, or the unpredictable twists, this season promises to keep audiences on edge each week. Share your thoughts on the most shocking moments so far or who you think will make it to the end — and stay tuned as this gripping season unfolds!