CONTESTANTS BID ON GYM EQUIPMENT IN "THE BIGGEST LOSER'S" FIRST AUCTION & ENJOY EMOTIONAL REUNIONS WITH FAMILY VIA SKYPE OCTOBER 29 ON NBC

Plus, One Trainer Helps His Contestant Confront Her Painful Past

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. - October 28, 2013 - It's a week of wild surprises when the contestants find the gym empty - and can only use equipment they've successfully bid on -- in the show's first ever auction, and then later get to connect via Skype with loved ones at home on "The Biggest Loser," airing Tuesday, October 29 (8-9 p.m. ET) on NBC.

Kicking off the season's third episode is a "where are they now" segment featuring Fernanda Abarca, the season's first eliminated contestant, who was sent home in last week's episode. Viewers will see how she's maintained her new healthy lifestyle at home, and managed to lose an impressive amount of weight. Then it's back to the ranch and off to the gym, which contestants are surprised to find is now empty of all equipment. And the only equipment they'll be able to use is what they're successfully able to bid on with "Biggest Loser" bucks in the show's first ever auction, run by host Alison Sweeney. Trainers Bob, Jillian and Dolvett and the players all have to get creative to make the most of their very limited equipment.

Also this week, the show catches up with season 12 fan favorite contestant Vinny Hickerson, who reveals how he's doing today. And later, one contestant opens up to her trainer about her difficult childhood and its lasting impact. Then it's time for the best surprise of the week - when players get to Skype with their loved ones back home in emotional, heartwarming reunions. From learning exciting news about a baby on the way, to getting much-needed words of encouragement, the contestants find their spirits renewed and their resolve strengthened to continue working hard to get healthy. Then it's time to head to the gym for what ultimately becomes a very emotional weigh-in.

"The Biggest Loser" is a production of Shine America and 25/7 Productions. Ben Silverman, Dave Broome, Eden Gaha, Lisa Hennessy, JD Roth and Todd A. Nelson are the executive producers.

For embeddable clips and full episodes from "The Biggest Loser," please visit NBC.com's official show site: http://www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser/

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