One of the CFL’s most popular players is set to star in a new television show chronicling his passion for rescuing dogs.
Brady Oliveira and his partner, Alex Blumberg, are the faces of Must Love Dogs, a 10-episode television series that will debut on April 20.
“Together with the dedicated volunteers of K9 Advocacy, this Winnipeg power couple rescues and finds forever homes for dogs in need across Manitoba,” reads a press release from the CBC.
“Must Love Dogs offers an intimate look at how this Winnipeg power couple navigates high-stakes rescues, Brady’s drive to win another championship for the Blue Bombers, and their race to rehome as many dogs as possible before a brutal winter sets in.
It’s a love story—between two people, their hometown, and every four-legged soul that steals their hearts.”
The couple has documented their dog rescue efforts on social media for several years, boasting a combined 367,000 followers on Instagram. Now, they’re going to be featured on CBC Gem.
“When you watch a dog go from surviving to truly belonging, it changes the way you see adoption,” said Blumberg in a press release. “They’re not ‘rescue dogs.’ They’re just dogs who need a chance — and once they get it, they thrive.”
“The series gives an intimate look at our relationship, our dogs, our life and Brady’s career with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers — all woven together as a love letter to the city we call home.”
Oliveira has played six seasons with his hometown Blue Bombers, becoming the full-time starter at running back in 2022. He has rushed for 5,480 yards, caught 188 passes for 1,830 yards, and scored 27 touchdowns over 83 career regular-season games, winning two Grey Cups, two CFL rushing titles, two Most Outstanding Canadian awards, and one Most Outstanding Player award.
At age 28, he is already the eighth all-time leading rusher in CFL history among Canadian players. He was rewarded earlier this offseason with a three-year contract extension worth $290,000 in 2026 and $300,000 in both 2027 and 2028.
“If the series encourages even a few people to get involved, support a rescue, or simply become more aware, then it’s done what we set out to do,” he said.