When a fan is surprised by a beloved celebrity, is that still a prank? Mitchel Musso says yes. That premise drives Family Channel’s new series PRANKSTARS, which debuts at 7 pm ET/PT for viewers in Canada and the United States.
PRANKSTARS is a hidden camera series that flips the script—fans are the stars of the prank, while their idols deliver the humor. Celeb pranksters lined up include Selena Gomez, Debbie Ryan, Adam Hicks, China Anne McClain, and Mitchel Musso himself. Here’s what Musso shares about hosting, pulling off the pranks, music, and more.
Musso describes the experience as terrific. He notes that the first season wrapped up and he loved how the project evolved; the show has a strong premise and a story behind its creation, and every episode grows stronger.
How did the show come about? The idea started as a basic prank show and evolved into a format built around surprising a celebrity’s biggest fan. Producers explained they weren’t pranking the stars this time; they were pranking the fans who adore them. The moment a fan is chosen, they get to interact with their favorite star on TV. The result is a blend of real emotion and playful mischief that audiences can connect with and share.
In the pilot, Musso takes part in a fan-focused prank. He explains the challenge: it feels like acting, except the scene runs longer. On set, an earpiece connects him with the crew, while a dozen cameras capture every angle. The process is non-stop for 30 minutes to an hour, and keeping a straight face adds to the fun and pressure.
When asked who else he would prank, Musso mentions the director’s kids, noting they have a sharp sense for practical jokes and absolutely deserve it for their talent and mischief.
Musso jokes that pranking him is not easy now, because cameras surround him wherever he goes. He notes the trick is to stay alert and enjoy the ride, since the cameras are always part of the scene.
He stays deeply involved in the prank ideas, with teammates stopping by to ask what’s cool and what would work best. He appreciates the creative input the show gives him and is eager to keep the format fresh by adding new elements and inviting wider audience participation.
Besides PRANKSTARS, Musso also co-stars in PAIR OF KINGS and voices Jeremy in PHINEAS AND FERB. When there is time to unwind, he keeps it simple—relaxing at home with his brother in the studio and sharing meals with family, a little downtime before the next project.
Musso has contributed to the show’s theme song and continues to pursue music. He hints at new material, noting that a follow-up album is in progress and that his brother Mason Musso from Metro Station will be stepping into the spotlight first as new material reaches radio listeners. Both brothers are actively working on fresh music in parallel projects.
Fans are invited to tune in for PRANKSTARS’ season premiere on Family Channel at 7 pm ET/PT. The show blends humor with heartfelt moments, offering a fresh take on celebrity culture that resonates with viewers across Canada and the United States.