Tvedestrand Taxi Drivers to Star in Charterfeber TV Show

Tvedestrand, Norway – A taxi bureau in the small coastal town of Tvedestrand is preparing for an unlikely turn in the spotlight. Vidar Sonesen, along with colleagues Bente Gundersen and Fredrik Oland Grov, have been selected to participate in the upcoming season of the popular television program, Charterfeber (translated as “Charter Fever”). The news, reported by Tvedestrandsposten on February 4, 2026, marks a significant shift for the trio, who are known locally for their playful antics and dedication to their profession.

The group, operating under the moniker “Oss på Taxibua i Tvedestrand” (“Us at the Taxi Bureau in Tvedestrand”), has already cultivated a following of over 1,200 on social media. However, their exposure is expected to dramatically increase when the new season of Charterfeber airs. The program, known for following groups of Norwegians on vacation, has previously featured pensioners, families, and groups of friends, but this marks the first time taxi drivers have been included as participants.

According to Ida Marie Hagen, a caster with the production company Strix, the group’s energetic personalities were a key factor in their selection. “A really cheerful bunch! There was so much energy during our first team meeting, we just had to have them with us,” Hagen told Tvedestrandsposten.

The journey to television stardom began somewhat unexpectedly. Fredrik Oland Grov, described as “the king of Temu” (an online marketplace), has been collecting Vidar Sonesen-themed merchandise for some time, including wonderbaumer air fresheners, pens, playing cards, pillows, and clothing. In December 2025, Grov impulsively submitted an application to Charterfeber, leading to a January 2026 contact from the production company and the subsequent public announcement in February.

While the prospect of appearing on national television is exciting, the group acknowledges a degree of uncertainty. Bente Gundersen admitted to feeling “a little jittery” about the experience, but expressed enthusiasm nonetheless. “We don’t know what we’re getting into, but we’re taking it in stride. We like to offer ourselves up,” she said.

The preparations for their trip have been extensive, and visibly so. The taxi bureau itself has been decorated with Vidar Sonesen-themed items, with Grov reportedly spending an undisclosed amount of money on merchandise from Temu. The group has also acquired a range of branded apparel, including shorts, t-shirts, and Hawaiian shirts, ensuring they are fully prepared for their on-screen appearances.

One practical concern has been addressed: arrangements have been made to ensure the taxi service continues uninterrupted during their absence. Gundersen reassured Tvedestrandsposten that there are other drivers employed by Tvedestrand Taxi capable of covering their shifts. “There are more of us employed in Tvedestrand taxi, so the taxi service will be sorted,” she stated.

The group’s participation in Charterfeber is not simply about personal ambition. They also hope to raise the profile of Tvedestrand. “We don’t intend to turn Tvedestrand upside down, but we do intend to put Tvedestrand on the map,” they said.

The exact premiere date for the new season of Charterfeber remains unconfirmed, but the residents of Tvedestrand – and Norwegian television viewers – can anticipate seeing Vidar, Bente, and Fredrik on their screens later this year. The trio’s journey from local taxi drivers to television personalities is a testament to their willingness to embrace opportunity and their commitment to bringing a bit of fun and personality to their community.

A quote attributed to Vidar Sonesen, “It is better to dare than not to try at all,” encapsulates the spirit of the group as they embark on this new adventure.