C.B. family to appear on Family Feud

DOMINION — Survey says: excitement is growing for a Cape Breton family heading to Toronto for a taping of Family Feud.

“Everyone I spoke to, they are that excited and happy for the family, it's unreal,” said Murray McNeil, fire chief of the Dominion Volunteer Fire Department. “It's a family show and they couldn't have found a better one than the Facchins as they are such a nice, tight-knit family.”

The Cape Breton Post has learned the Facchin family from Dominion will be heading to Toronto on Thursday for an upcoming taping of the show and returning home Tuesday.

The well-known family includes seven siblings, five of whom will be going: four sisters who live in Cape Breton and a brother in Toronto.

When contacted, Cathy Facchin Gillis said in following the guidelines of the show, they are unable to comment or do any media interviews until they come back.

‘GREAT FAMILY’

Meanwhile, McNeil said it would be hard to find someone in Dominion who did not know who the Facchins are. He said the entire family is community-oriented and always involved in some way, in particular, Cathy Facchin Gillis and Lisa Facchin who are the driving force behind the Seaside Daze recreation committee.

“They are just a great family,” he said.

Although the family members are not permitted to comment and have remained silent, the rest of the community hasn't.

McNeil said when these family members are out and about there's lots of joking around with people firing off ‘The survey says' questions to them, asked on the show.

“People are having lots of fun with them,” he added.

Once it is known when the show will air, McNeil said they hope to set up a big screen at the fire hall for people in the community to gather to watch the show, organized in adhering to all COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines.

“Just for people to come as a bunch of friends and celebrate with them,” he said.

WELL-WISHERS

Social media has also attracted hundreds of well-wishers providing a Cape Breton sendoff for the siblings.

“Can't wait,” posted Melinda Maria. “Bring home the moola Facchins!!”

Many posted emojis, including Margie MacNeil who

had a big happy face displayed. “That's awesome,” she wrote. “I love the show.”

Brenda MacGillivray said it was exciting.

“Good luck!!” she posted. “Good looking family.”

Joey Leona Dezagiacomo wished good luck to everyone going and added a winking emoji as well as thumbs up, clapping, praying and even heart emojis.

“Hope you win for your hometown and have lots of fun.”

According to the CBC Family Feud website, season three of the Canadian version of the show begins Sept. 27 and is hosted by comedian and actor Gerry Dee.

A message on the website invites virtual auditions. Families interested are asked to submit a video introducing their family members and telling producers what makes their family stand out.

If a video catches the producer's attention, the family will be contacted for a virtual audition.

Due to the pandemic, the website states, “You must be over 18 years of age to apply, and for health safety reasons, no in-person auditions are happening until further notice.”