The winner of 'Allt för Sverige'

Brian Gerard, the 39-year-old pastor from Kentucky, won over Guy with only seconds to spare in the final program of the Swedish reality show. 

  • Brian Gerard, a pastor from Louisville, Kentucky, is looking forward to bringing his family history back home and finding the best translation for the Swedish word “lagom.”

  • Brian's comment: "I can't believe it, I won a reality show," both to the audience and later as he called his wife, at home in Kentucky was priceless. Four of the participants remained for the final episode, Shastin, Kirstin, Guy and the winning Brian.
    All of them have been graceful and gracious throughout the series. It seems from the many reactions, that Swedish viewers took to heart every moment of joy and every grain of spontaneity and enthusiasm the participants shared. We're happy for Brian but applaud every single one of the participants for their attitude and willingness to share and look forward to a follow up among them soon.

  • Here's our introduction to the series as the participants first touched Scandinavian ground in May, 2011: 'Allt för Sverige' - The Great Swedish Adventure continues...

  • Brian Gerard, a pastor, was from day one looking forward to bringing his family history back home. He was also on a quest to find the best translation for the Swedish word “lagom.”
    Age: 39
    From: Louisville, Kentucky
    Occupation: Pastor

  • My mother is Swedish, but I have never been to Sweden or met any relatives who live in Sweden.
    I saw it on Facebook, and when I read "Now is your chance to become Swedish,” I just knew. I hope to learn what it means to be Swedish, learn about customs and see distant places, and learn what kind of interests Swedes have. I love the U.S. and my hometown, but it's still important to find out what my history looks like. I think this TV show really will show Americans' passion for the family and how much we prize our roots.
    I have motivation, I am focused and determined. I don’t like to lose and no one in this group wants that. Because for us it's more than just a competition. This is a way of changing our whole families' histories.
    I have not prepared myself for this competition. First of all we were not supposed to do that, and I also have two kids to take care of who come first. I will just take it as it comes.
    I will bring my own family story home, not just the experience. I am so excited to find out what the Swedish word ”lagom” means, and when you can actually use it. I think it is a very common expression in Sweden but I have not found a English translation for it.