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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, February 08, 2010 - 11:45 AM EST
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A&E has announced Kirstie Alley's Big Life, a new docu-reality series that will follow the actress in her everyday life, will premiere on Sunday, March 21 at 10PM ET/PT with back-to-back episodes.
Each episode will follow the 58-year-old actress -- who has appeared in movies including Look Who's Talking and Drop Dead Gorgeous and television shows Cheers and Veronica's Closet -- as she launches a new weight-loss company while also raising her two teenage daughters in the glare of Hollywood.
In addition, Alley is also producing a feature film, patenting multiple inventions, caring for the family's eight ringtail lemurs, and also looking for love.
"This show has been cathartic for me... shown me who I really am... again," said Alley, "And it's really freaking funny."
A&E ordered Kirstie Alley's Big Life in November and the 10-episode series is being produced by FremantleMedia North America.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, February 08, 2010 - 06:41 AM EST
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OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network has announced it has ordered Behind the Scenes: Oprah's 25th Season, a new reality series that will document Oprah Winfrey and her staff as they work on the final season of her landmark talk show.
Behind the Scenes: Oprah's 25th Season will kick-off the network's primetime programming schedule when Discovery Communications' Discovery Health network relaunches as OWN in January 2011.
It will feature Winfrey offering perspective and personal reflections on her show while also providing viewers "unprecedented" access to the production on its final season.
"For the first time ever, viewers will get to see behind the curtains of The Oprah Winfrey Show," said CEO Christina Norman.
"Behind the Scenes: Oprah's 25th Season will document what will be the most amazing season, yet."
In addition, OWN also added four one-hour reality series-- Kid-napped, Miracle Detectives, Search and Sentenced -- to its development slate.
Kid-napped will follow kids who are given a chance to "kidnap" a workaholic parent and prevent them from focusing on their professions to instead spend quality time with them.
The tentatively-titled series is based on a U.K. format produced by Love Productions.
Miracle Detectives will follow two investigators -- one billed as a "believer" and the other a "skeptical scientist" -- as they travel around the world and investigate mysteries that go against logic.
Two miracles will be explored in each episode, which will include visits to the sites where the alleged incidents occurred and interviews with eyewitnesses, authorities, and experts.
The tentatively-titled series is produced by Pilgrim TV and Film.
Search will follow renowned search specialist and New Jersey housewife Pam Slaton as she helps people find loved ones ranging from missing family members to friends.
The tentatively-titled series is produced by Stuart Krasnow Productions.
Sentenced is set at Rockville Correctional Facility, a maximum-security women's prison in Rockville, IN and will track the personal journeys of real-life "women behind bars."
The tentatively-titled series is produced by 44 Blue.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, February 02, 2010 - 05:42 PM EST
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A contestant on Australia's upcoming The Biggest Loser installment has been forced the season to be "radically re-edited" after he was arrested and charged with possessing child pornography.
Deryck James Ward was charged by Queensland police on January 16 with one count of possessing child exploitation material and one count of using the Internet to access images of child exploitation, Australia's Courier Mail reported Monday.
Ward had competed on The Biggest Loser's fifth season -- which is scheduled to premiere Sunday night -- with his older sister, however Network Ten and the show's FremantleMedia Australia production company have cut all footage of the pair from the season, according to the Courier Mail.
"Given the seriousness of these charges and that this matter is to be resolved in the courts, the network decided it will not broadcast any episode in which Mr. Ward would have appeared," a Ten spokeswoman told the Courier Mail.
"We believe this is in every party's interest, including Mr. Ward's."
The two were the second pair eliminated from the competition, which has reportedly been filming in Sydney for several months. The series has since been re-edited to follow nine teams instead of 10, according to the Courier Mail.
Ward -- who was billed as a 26-year-old communications specialist -- is set to appear in court on March 8.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 05:18 PM EST
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A&E announced it has picked up a new reality series starring David Hasselhoff that will follow the former America's Got Talent judge as he balances his entertainment and business endeavors with his personal life as a single dad to two teenage daughters.
"David Hasselhoff is an international icon known for his many roles and talents," said A&E programming executive Robert Sharenow.
"Now for the first time he's allowing our cameras to see another side of him as a single father raising two teenage girls and the day-to-day drama that accompanies the rest of his larger-than-life life."
Hasselhoff announced earlier this month that he was leaving America's Got Talent after serving on its judging panel since the NBC reality series premiered in 2006. NBC subsequently tapped Deal or No Deal host Howie Mandel to replace him.
According to Hasselhoff, he was leaving America's Got Talent to follow his "dream" of doing his own TV show, which he had added would "be announced very shortly." While the 57-year-old had failed to elaborate further, reports that he was close to finalizing a reality show deal with A&E had circulated since October.
"It's the dream of every parent to be able to help their children succeed," said Hasselhoff in the new show's order announcement.
"I told the girls that I would help them open the door when they are ready, but they would have to walk through it on their own. This is their time and I am excited to be a part of it by partnering with A&E."
The 10-episode, yet-to-be-titled series is currently slated to premiere later this year and is produced by FremantleMedia North America.
"David is a multi-talented entertainer who is equally loved and recognized in the US and around the world. He rose to stardom when Knight Rider and then Baywatch hit the screen, more recently his work as a judge on America's Got Talent helped the show reach #1 in the ratings for the past four seasons," said FremantleMedia North America CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz.
"With his new reality series, viewers will now be taken on a fascinating journey behind The Hoff curtain to see the man behind the myth, and the magic and mayhem that makes him an exceptional father, a consummate celebrity, and 'The Most Watched TV Star in the World.'"
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, January 21, 2010 - 07:22 AM EST
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Paris Hilton and her mother Kathy aren't the only socialites in the family reportedly tied to a reality series.
Kathy's sisters Kim and Kyle Richards have reportedly been tapped to star in a new Beverly Hills edition of Bravo's The Real Housewives reality series franchise, RadarOnline reported Friday.
In addition, Villa Blanca restaurant owner Lisa Todd has also been cast to star in the reported series.
"Lisa, Kim and Kyle are all hideously wealthy," a source told RadarOnline. "They live in these amazing houses, drive beautiful cars, live these fabulous lives and spend money like it's going out of fashion."
While Bravo has yet to formally announce plans for a Beverly Hills edition -- which would represent the sixth The Real Housewives installment -- reports of the potential project had surfaced after casting notices seeking "outgoing, exciting, strong, focused women who reside in and around the Beverly Hills area that want to share their lives" were released last May.
"The casting is meant to still be a secret but there's no such thing when it comes to Lisa! She's been sworn to secrecy about her involvement but has been telling anyone and everyone that will listen! When it comes to Lisa 'loose lips' is definitely a saying that springs to mind!" the source told RadarOnline.
"Actually, it could be applied to all three of them! They all love to gossip and there's a real rivalry between them, even though they socialize together and are friends."
In addition, the source promised "a fair share of drama, cat fights and bitchiness" on the reported series.
While Paris has starred on The Simple Life and Paris Hilton's My New BFF, Kathy starred in I Want to be a Hilton -- a reality competition series that aired on NBC in Summer 2005 and featured contestants vying for the chance to live like a Hilton.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, January 18, 2010 - 04:39 AM EST
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Style Network announced it has ordered Tacky House, a new reality series that will feature former Queer Eye for the Straight Guy star Thom Filicia transforming rooms from tacky to tasteful.
Each Tacky House episode will follow Filicia and two fellow interior design experts as they attempt to convince a homeowner that a room they personally designed needs a makeover from its disastrous decor.
With the help of one of the homeowner's friends or family members, the homeowner is persuaded and the space is then renovated before being revealed.
"Based on the continued success of Style's Clean House, we are excited to bring viewers the next step in home makeover series," said Style Network president Salaam Coleman Smith.
"Tackiness has definitely met its match in our tasteful host Thom Filicia and we couldn't be more excited to have him in a new series on Style."
Style Network has ordered 10 one-hour episodes of the series, which is currently slated to premiere in the spring. It is produced by Lynchpin Productions.
Tacky House isn't Filicia's first Style Network reality series, as he previously hosted Dress My Nest -- which used a person's favorite clothing as inspiration for the design of a living space in their house. The series aired in 2007.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, January 15, 2010 - 09:27 AM EST
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Food Network announced it has begun production on Private Chefs of Beverly Hills, a new reality series that will follow the employees of a private chef placement agency in one of the most posh cities in the country.
The series is currently slated to premiere in April.
Private Chefs of Beverly Hills will follow the chefs who work for Big City Chefs -- which the network bills as Beverly Hills' premiere private chef placement agency -- as they cater to some of the most wealthy clientele.
It will also give viewers a glimpse at the "high-demand world of culinary glamour," according to Food Network.
The six-episode series is being produced by Target Entertainment.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, January 14, 2010 - 03:20 PM EST
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TLC has announced it has ordered Addicted, a new Intervention-like docu-reality series that will follow individuals as they struggle with substance abuse before receiving help from an interventionist.
"This is a series about family, change and hope," said TLC President Eileen O'Neill.
"Addicted is a raw and authentic portrait of addiction in America and while viewers will see the brutal battle for sobriety, it ultimately demonstrates the importance of substance abuse treatment -- and makes for powerful television."
Each one-hour episode of Addicted will follow a different individual as he or she struggles with addiction, while also looking at how it is impacting their life and their loved ones.
With the help of family members and friends, the addict will then participate in an intervention led by interventionist and former addict Kristina Wandzilak, who will attempt to put them on the road to recovery.
"Addiction happens to good people and decent families all the time," said Wandzilak. "I know how to change a life, and I know how to live better. I can do that. I am an example of it, and if I can do it, anyone can."
TLC has ordered six episodes of the series, which is currently slated to debut in March. Addicted is being produced by Asylum Entertainment.
New Intervention eighth-season episodes currently air on A&E in the Mondays at 9PM ET/PT timeslot. The series won Outstanding Reality Program honors during the 2009 Creative Arts Emmy Awards ceremony in September.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, January 14, 2010 - 01:03 PM EST
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Fox Reality Channel's first original reality dating series will also be its last.
The soon-to-be-defunct network has announced that Seducing Cindy, a new reality dating series starring model and Internet icon Cindy Margolis, will premiere on Saturday, January 30 at 9PM ET/PT.
"Seducing Cindy is Fox Reality Channel's first original dating series and will take viewers on the unique, emotional and potentially intimidating journey of finding love over 40," said network executive Noel Siegel.
"Millions of men have downloaded Cindy Margolis photos, but we are giving a handful of them the rare opportunity to make a real connection and win her heart."
Seducing Cindy will begin with Margolis -- who was recognized as the Internet's most-downloaded woman by the "Guinness Book of World Records" in 2000 -- as she is introduced to 24 suitors ranging in age from 18- to 71-years-old.
Each one-hour episode will follow the suitors as they are put through a series of challenges designed to test their affection for Margolis with the hopes of receiving a garter belt off her leg at the subsequent elimination ceremonies and thus avoiding elimination.
"My fans have been incredibly loyal and supportive over the years, so I am taking the leap of faith that one of them could be the love of my life," said Margolis, a single mother of three. "I am ready to be swept off my feet."
Fox Reality Channel began developing Seducing Cindy in April under the working title The Cindy Margolis Dating Project. The eight-episode series is produced by Glassman Media.
"Cindy came to us and said she was at a crossroads in her life, was ready to fall in love again, but had forgotten the rules' of dating and wanted to try something extreme," said executive producer Andrew Glassman.
"She got that and much more -- her fans and longtime admirers arrived prepared to do anything imaginable, and fight with all their will, for the dream chance of Seducing Cindy."
Fox Cable Networks announced in October that Fox Reality Channel -- which launched in 2005 and is currently available in nearly 50 million homes -- will cease operations on March 31 and relaunch as Nat Geo Wild, a Fox Cable and the National Geographic Channel collaboration that will focus on natural history and wildlife.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 06:53 AM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the twelfth and final installment: December 2009.
- Simon Cowell and his business partner Sir Philip Green tell a British magazine they are considering launching an international The X Factor edition that would be set in Las Vegas and be available via global pay-per-view on the Internet.
- Potential The Real Housewives of D.C. cast members Michaele and Tareq Salahi deny crashing a White House state dinner in November but are eventually subpoenaed to testify in front of a Congressional committee in January. Bravo launches a consumer survey to receive feedback on the Salahis before pulling it.
- Big Brother ninth-season winner Adam Jasinski is granted bail pending the completion of a substance-abuse treatment program and is subsequently released from prison.
- Former Tool Academy cast member Jaimee Grubbs becomes the first woman to publicly claim she had an affair with professional golfer Tiger Woods. A former Tool Academy castmate subsequently claims Grubbs openly discussed her relationship with Woods while filming the VH1 reality series.
- The Bachelor sixth-season couple Byron Velvick and Mary Delgado reveal they have ended their engagement and broken up after dating for five years.
- Britain's Got Talent runner-up Susan Boyle's debut album debuts at No. 1 while American Idol eighth-season runner-up Adam Lambert sees his debut album drop at No. 3 in the same week.
- ABC ends its Adam Lambert boycott by letting him perform on The View after canceling several appearances following his controversial American Music Awards performance.
- MTV renews The Hills for a sixth season that will include Audrina Patridge -- who previously insisted the fifth season would be her last.
- Kate Major and Michael Lohan are both deposed in TLC's breach of contract lawsuit against former Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin, followed by his ex-girlfriend Hailey Glassman -- who calls him a monster.
- The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Danielle Staub drops a criminal complaint that she was assaulted by fellow cast members Teresa Giudice and Jacqueline Laurita but continues to push for charges against Laurita's 19-year-old daughter.
- A judge grants TLC a preliminary injunction preventing Jon Gosselin from continuing to violate his Jon & Kate Plus 8 contract by making unauthorized media appearances and endorsements. The ruling reportedly leaves Gosselin in "serious financial trouble."
- Advertisers begin pulling their commercials from MTV's controversial Jersey Shore reality series.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 stars Jon and Kate Gosselin's divorce is finalized.
- Australian authorities charge two ninth-season British I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! contestants with animal cruelty for killing a rat and eating it during an episode of the reality competition series.
- "Dating Couple" Meghan Rickey and Cheyne Whitney win The Amazing Race's fifteenth season.
- Former Hogan Knows Best star and American Gladiators host Hulk Hogan gets engaged to Jennifer McDaniel.
- Leave it to Lamas star and former The Bachelor: London Calling bachelorette Shayne Lamas pleads no contest to her November DUI arrest.
- Former American Idol fourth-season finalist and Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew participant Jessica Sierra gives birth to a baby boy.
- Former The Bachelor third-season star Aaron Buerge and his wife Angye McIntosh have a baby girl.
- Danny Cahill is crowned The Biggest Loser's eighth-season winner after setting an all-time weight-loss record.
- Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn reveals he is cancer-free for first time since his April diagnosis.
- Michael Voltaggio defeats his older brother Bryan and wins Top Chef: Las Vegas.
- Former The Girls Next Door and Kendra star Kendra Wilkinson gives birth to a baby boy.
- The nineteenth child of 18 Kids & Counting stars Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar is born three months prematurely.
- After heavily promoting it, MTV decides not to air footage of Jersey Shore star Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi getting punched in the face. The puncher, Brad Ferro, apologizes.
- Former The Bachelor thirteenth-season bachelorette and Dancing with the Stars celebrity participant Melissa Rycroft weds Ty Strickland.
- Keeping up with the Kardashians and Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami star Kourtney Kardashian gives birth to a baby boy.
- The Amazing Race fourteenth-season runner-up Jaime Edmondson appears in Playboy as the magazine's "Miss January" centerfold.
- Cowell says a U.S.-based The X Factor edition would be set in Los Angeles not Las Vegas and a U.K. newspaper reports he may leave Idol after its 2011 edition and is finalizing a deal for an American The X Factor edition that would air on Fox and begin filming in Los Angeles in September 2011.
- Upcoming The Bachelor star Jake Pavelka reveals he didn't promise a marriage proposal during his final Rose Ceremony.
- Russell Ferguson wins So You Think You Can Dance's sixth-season after injuring himself during live finale.
- America's Best Dance Crew judge and former So You Think You Can Dance choreographer Shane Sparks is arrested and charged with child molestation.
- Natalie White wins Survivor: Samoa by defeating Russell Hantz and Mick Trimmer. Hantz subsequently calls it the "worst upset in reality TV history."
- CBS finally formally confirms Survivor's twentieth season -- which was filmed back-to-back with Survivor: Samoa in Samoa in Summer 2009 -- will be dubbed Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains, feature 20 former castaways and premiere in February.
- American Idol fourth-season winner Carrie Underwood gets engaged to NHL star Mike Fisher.
- Nota is crowned the winner of NBC's The Sing-Off a cappella reality singing competition.
- Simon Cowell's older brother Terry claims a press announcement that Simon is leaving Idol after its 2010 edition to launch an American version of The X Factor in 2011 is being prepared. Fox declines comment.
- Fox releases American Idol's entire ninth-season early broadcast schedule, revealing it is dropping some of the 2009 season's format changes and returning to the show's previous format which features 24 semifinalists, a gender-balanced gradual elimination process, and does not include a "Wild Card" semifinals round.
Premieres: Bad Girls Club, Season 4 (12/1); Steven Seagal Lawman (12/2); Launch My Line (12/2); Dog the Bounty Hunter, Season 6 (12/2); The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty (12/13); Keeping Up With the Kardashians, Season 4 (12/13); The Sing-Off (12/14); Bank of Hollywood (12/14); One Big Happy Family (12/29); The Imploders (12/30).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, December 31, 2009 - 01:20 PM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the eleventh installment: November 2009.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin countersues TLC for $5 million, while the network subpoenas Hailey Glassman, Michael Lohan and Kate Major, among others, to testify against him in its breach of contract lawsuit against him.
- Glassman and Gosselin continue to take a break from their romance to instead focus on the "individual lives." In addition, Gosselin's lawyer states his client's divorce from estranged wife Kate is almost finished.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8's finale broadcast airs, and Kate calls the end of the show both "sad" and "needless." Jon reveals plans to spend Christmas with Kate and the kids since it is a joint-shared custody day, but spends Thanksgiving skiing in Utah with friends.
- Former Big Brother winner Will Kirby and For Love or Money winner Erin Brodie reveal they are having a baby.
- Out editor-in-chief Aaron Hicklin criticizes Adam Lambert's management team for allegedly only agreeing to let the American Idol eighth-season runner-up appear on the gay magazine's cover if it didn't make him look "too gay."
- Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew star Dr. Drew Pinsky saves a high school student's life while attending his son's football game.
- Original The Real Housewives of Orange County cast member Jeana Kough states she didn't feel appreciated by Bravo, which played a role in her decision to leave the show during its fifth season.
- Dancing with the Stars professional Maksim Chmerkovskiy is tapped to reprise his Burn the Floor Broadway role with fellow professional Kym Johnson instead of his former fiance Karina Smirnoff, who previously starred alongside him in it.
- America's Best Dance Crew co-host Layla Kayleigh gives birth to a baby girl.
- The Rachel Zoe Project star Taylor Jacobson leaves the celebrity stylist.
- ABC cancels the premiere of its new Let's Dance reality series because it reportedly couldn't secure enough celebrities to compete on it during the holiday season.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 nanny Janet Weidenheimer dies at the age of 72.
- Reports surface that Dancing with the Stars professional Julianne Hough and her boyfriend Chuck Wicks have split, and she subsequently confirms they are no longer dating. In addition, Hough announces that she will not be participating in Dancing with the Stars' tenth season in the spring.
- TV One orders a new Donald Trump-produced reality dating series starring former The Apprentice contestant Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth.
- Dancing with the Stars' ninth-season couple Aaron Carter and Karina Smirnoff deny they are dating.
- American Idol fourth-season champ Carrie Underwood's new "Play On" album debuts at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album sales chart.
- Wipeout third-season contestant Tom Sparks is taken to a local hospital after complaining of knee pain and subsequently dies at age 33 after suffering a stroke.
- Chidi Uzomah is arrested wielding a knife outside of E! Entertainment's Los Angeles' offices and is subsequently charged with stalking American Idol host Ryan Seacrest after he violated a stay-away order issued in September. Uzomah pleads not guilty and Seacrest receives a restraining order against him.
- Two-time former Wife Swap parents Richard and Mayumi Heene plead guilty to charges stemming from their "balloon boy" hoax. Richard pled guilty to a felony count of falsely influencing the sheriff who led the effort to rescue the couple's supposedly missing son, while Mayumi pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of knowingly filing a false report with emergency services.
- The Hills star Stephanie Pratt is sent to a 30-day rehab stint following her arrest last month on suspicion of drunken driving charges.
- Leave it to Lamas star and The Bachelor: London Calling winner Shayne Lamas is arrested for driving under the influence.
- Former A Shot at Love star Tila Tequila sues NFL star Shawne Merriman over their previous altercation in which she claims he allegedly choked her.
- Rebecca Meyer reveals she's dating fellow former The Biggest Loser eighth-season contestant Daniel Wright.
- Nicole Fox wins America's Next Top Model's thirteenth-season title.
- Big Brother ninth-season winner Adam Jasinski requests his release from prison after he was arrested in Massachusetts last month for attempting to sell 2,000 oxycodone pills as part of a drug trafficking operation he allegedly operated.
- American Idol eighth-season runner-up Adam Lambert S&M-themed performance during ABC's live American Music Awards broadcast sparks controversy. The performance draws 1,500 complaints and causes ABC to cancel an upcoming appearance on Good Morning America. Lambert claims he had "no clue" the performance would cause so much controversy but does not apologize for it.
- Irina Shabayeva is crowned Project Runway's sixth-season champion.
- Jose Garces wins The Next Iron Chef's second-season title.
- An Italian-American organization claims MTV's new Jersey Shore reality series is offensive to Italian-Americans and should be pulled from the air before it even premieres. MTV defends the show.
- Entertainer Donny Osmond and his professional partner Kym Johnson win Dancing with the Stars' ninth-season title.
- American Idol eighth-season champ Kris Allen's debut album drops at No. 11 on the Billboard 200 album sales chart after selling only 80,000 units -- the lowest ever for an Idol winner's debut.
- Potential The Real Housewives of D.C. cast members Michaele and Tareq Salahi are accused of attending a White House state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh without an invitation. Bravo subsequently confirms that the Salahis are being considered as cast members but added neither the network nor show's production company had any knowledge they were crashing the state dinner.
- The Secret Service takes responsibility for the Salahis' improper admittance and reports that a criminal investigation could be coming surface. The couple is said to be shopping an interview to give their side of the story, however they deny the report.
- America's Got Talent judge David Hasselhoff is hospitalized after reportedly suffering a seizure. He is subsequently released and denies that he was being held for psychiatric evaluation.
- Los Angeles International Airport eyewitnesses take pictures of Big Brother eleventh-season lovebirds Jordan Lloyd and Jeff Schroeder competing as one of The Amazing Race's sixteenth-season teams.
Premieres: Sex Rehab with Dr. Drew (11/1); For the Love of Ray J, Season 2 (11/2); Tabatha's Salon Takeover, Season 2 (11/3); Flowers Uncut with Jeff Leatham (11/4); The Real Housewives of Orange County, Season 5 (11/5); Chef Academy (11/16); Intervention, Season 8 (11/30); Hoarders, Season 2 (11/30).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 - 04:28 AM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the tenth installment: October 2009.
- Jon Gosselin claims Jon & Kate Plus 8 has become "detrimental" to his children demands TLC halt production. While Jon subsequently claims his demand was due to an "epiphany," reports claim it was motivated by TLC's refusal to allow him to star in other reality shows.
- Kate Gosselin says she is "saddened and confused" by Jon's claim that the show is harming their kids, which she denies. While TLC slams Jon for his demands, it suspends production on the show.
- Fox insists a So You Think You Can Dance sixth-season hopeful who appeared to have flashed her private parts during her audition was wearing flesh-toned dance gear.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch completes his prison sentence and is released. He subsequently says he was the victim of a "witch hunt."
- MTV premieres Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein's Gone Too Far intervention reality series despite his August death due to an accidental drug overdose. The series is subsequently moved to a late-night time period due to low ratings.
- Top Chef host Padma Lakshmi announces she's pregnant with her first child but declines to reveal the father.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Kate Gosselin accuses her estranged husband Jon of emptying their joint account and claims she can't pay bills. Jon calls Kate's claims a "total fabrication," accuses her of "hiding money" and subsequently demands that she be forthcoming about the money he alleges she's hiding from him.
- Kate Gosselin files for child support and temporary spousal support and asks for a court to force Jon to return the money she claims he took out of their joint account without her approval, while Jon files a claim that Kate also made unauthorized money withdrawals. A judge orders both to return the funds.
- Jon Gosselin's attorney subsequently states his client is in "full compliance" with the judge's order to return the money, however Kate's legal team disagrees.
- A private memorial service is held for accused Megan Wants a Millionaire murderer Ryan Jenkins, and authorities reveal he left a suicide note on his laptop.
- One of Jake Pavelka's alleged bachelorettes reveals that ABC has tapped him to serve as The Bachelor's fourteenth-season star, which the network confirms two weeks later.
- Ashley "A.J." Jewell, the former fiance of The Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss, dies due to injuries suffered during a reported fight outside of an Atlanta strip club.
- Jon Gosselin publicly claims his estranged wife Kate is attempting to stop him from spending time with their twins on their birthday, however they subsequently resolve the dispute and are "cordial" with one another.
- Former Gosselin family nanny Stephanie Santoro -- who previously alleged to have an affair with Jon -- claims he hacked into Kate's cell phone and email records, which he denies. Kate says she is "disturbed" by Santoro's latest allegations.
- Indicted former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay withdraws from Dancing with the Stars ninth season after suffering injuries to both of his feet.
- The Biggest Loser opens a branded weight-loss resort and spa in Utah.
- TLC confirms Jon & Kate Plus 8 will no longer re-launch as Kate Plus 8 beginning November 2 and the reality show's last original Jon & Kate Plus 8-titled episode will now air in mid to late November. The network later confirms Jon & Kate Plus 8's last completed episode will air November 23.
- Jon Gosselin says he'll "probably continue on television" once the series is over but denies a report that he might appear on either Survivor or The Amazing Race. In addition, his representative denies he's doing a reality show with "Octomom" Nadya Suleman.
- Bravo formally orders The Real Housewives of D.C. -- the fifth installment in its The Real Housewives reality series franchise.
- TLC files a breach of contract lawsuit against Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin and alleges his newfound claim that the show is "detrimental" to his children was part of a threat to try and get the network to release him from his exclusive contract. Jon's lawyer characterizes the lawsuit as "weak" and "baseless."
- BET orders a new docu-reality series starring paroled NFL star Michael Vick.
- Former Survivor: Amazon castaway Heidi Strobel gives birth to a baby boy.
- 18 Kids and Counting stars Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar welcome their first grandchild.
- Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is reportedly cast to compete on The Celebrity Apprentice's third season. Leaked photos confirm Blagojevich's participation once production on the season begins later in the month.
- Project Runway host Heidi Klum and her husband Seal welcome a baby girl.
- A report that Michael Jackson's kids are going to be part of A&E's upcoming reality series about the Jackson family surfaces, however his mom -- who received custody of the three children following his June death -- denies it.
- Dave Levey defeats Kevin Cottle to win Hell's Kitchen's sixth-season title.
- Fox Cable announces it is shutting down its Fox Reality Channel cable network.
- Former The Bachelorette fifth-season suitor Wes Hayden claims the ABC reality dating franchise is "full of s--t" and claims he has a project with NBC in the works.
- Choreographer Mia Michaels announces that she is leaving So You Think You Can Dance effective immediately to pursue "other projects." Nigel Lythgoe subsequently wishes Michaels "the best."
- The Heene family -- who twice appeared on ABC's Wife Swap -- are at the center of an incident that gains national media attention when they claim their son accidentally lifted off in a homemade helium balloon only to learn that he was hiding at their house the whole time. The family denies the incident was a hoax, but authorities disagree and label it a hoax in an attempt to land a new reality show.
- The FAA investigates the Heene incident and confirms criminal charges may be filed. Heene family's mom gives an affidavit that the incident was a hoax. Lifetime decides to pull a rerun of the Heene family's first Wife Swap appearance.
- Hulk Hogan reveals that his former American Gladiator co-host Laila Ali stopped him from attempting suicide.
- Hailey Glassman claims that her boyfriend Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin sometimes has trouble with the truth and accuses him of being emotional abusive to her. Gosselin states he regrets causing Glassman "any pain," and the couple subsequently decides to take a break from their relationship.
- The Real Housewives of New York City star Bethenny Frankel confirms she's engaged and pregnant.
- The Hills star Stephanie Pratt is arrested for suspicion of drunk driving.
- Big Brother ninth-season winner Adam Jasinski is arrested in Massachusetts for attempting to sell 2,000 oxycodone pills as part of a drug trafficking operation he allegedly operated. A judge subsequently orders he be held without bail.
- Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami star Khloe Kardashian and her husband Lamar Odom reportedly sign their prenuptial agreement.
- Big Brother eleventh-season houseguests Jordan Lloyd and Jeff Schroeder reveal they're dating.
- The Bachelor star Jason Mesnick and his second selected suitor Molly Malaney get engaged in New Zealand, and she subsequently reveals she "hadn't expected" him to pop the question.
- Liz Davis wins MTV's P. Diddy's Starmaker reality series.
- The Apprentice star Ivanka Trump weds publisher Jared Kushner.
- Antonio Sabato Jr. picks Brooke Barlow during My Antonio's finale, however word quickly surfaces that the couple had already split by the time it aired.
- Former Age of Love star Mark Philippoussis gets engaged to Jennifer Esposito.
- Julianne Hough reveals she is uncertain about when she will return to Dancing with the Stars.
- Former The Two Coreys stars Corey and Susie Feldman file for divorce.
Premieres: Wedded to Perfection (10/2); Bartender Wars (10/2); Superfetch (10/3); The Next Iron Chef, Season 2 (10/4); Parking Wars, Season 3 (10/6); Ghost Lab (10/6); The Girls Next Door, Season 6 (10/11); Leave it to Lamas (10/11); Million Dollar Listing, Season 3 (10/12); Gone Too Far (10/12); Little People, Big World, Season 5 (10/16); Storm Chasers, Season 3 (10/18); Living with Ed, Season 3 (10/21); The Academy: Orange County Fires (10/24); Monica (10/27).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 - 12:52 PM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the ninth installment: September 2009.
- Audrina Patridge claims she is "almost done" filming her final The Hills episodes.
- Departed American Idol judge Paula Abdul says she's in talks for her to appear in her own Las Vegas show while adding she's uncertain if she'll accept Nigel Lythgoe's offer to serve as a So You Think You Can Dance guest judge or choreographer. Simon Cowell says American Idol ninth-season auditions feel "different" without Abdul.
- 18 Kids and Counting star Michelle Duggar announces she's expecting her nineteenth child.
- Eighth-season American Idol third-place finisher Danny Gokey inks a recording contract with 19 Recordings/RCA Nashville.
- Kevin Skinner is crowned America's Got Talent's fourth-season champion and former host Jerry Springer is tapped to helm the NBC reality competition's live Las Vegas show.
- Bravo announces The Real Housewives of Orange County's fifth season will include the departure of original cast member Jeana Keough.
- Rejected The Bachelor suitor and former Dancing with the Stars celebrity participant Melissa Rycroft says he'll wed fiance Ty Strickland in December.
- VH1 denies it is giving Megan Wants a Millionaire star Megan Hauserman another show. She says it's "been a very challenging time" since Ryan Jenkins, her former Millionaire suitor, was charged with murder and committed suicide.
- Former A Shot at Love star Tila Tequila alleges she was choked by NFL star Shawn Merriman, who denies the allegations and instead claims Tequila was intoxicated and he was trying to help her. Tequila's lawyer claims Merriman's version of the incident is "spin," but the district attorney later dismisses the assault case against him.
- The Bachelor host Chris Harrison states that the show is "very close" to picking its fourteenth-season star and adds The Bachelorette fifth-season suitors Reid Rosenthal, Kiptyn Locke and Jake Pavelka are "obviously" all candidates. In addition, a strange report that The Bachelor producers are planning an all-star edition of the reality dating series surfaces.
- Natalie Martinez gets engaged to her boyfriend during a Big Brother 11 twist.
- Former American Idol first-season finalist Jim Verraros marries his longtime boyfriend.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin claims his failed marriage with estranged wife Kate was not his fault, says he despises Kate, and accuses her of verbally abusing him. Kate decides to take the high road and not respond to Jon's allegations.
- Former Gosselin family nanny Stephanie Santoro alleges she had an affair with Jon, and Kate said she's not surprised by the claims. Jon files a request to suspend the couple's divorce filing with the hopes of establishing better communication with Kate.
- TLC announces plans to reduce Jon's Jon & Kate Plus 8 role and rebrand the series as Kate Plus 8 in November.
- Dancing with the Stars professionals Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Karina Smirnoff call-off their eight-month engagement before reports surface that they argued with each other at the Emmy Awards.
- Former The Simple Life star Nicole Richie gives birth to baby boy.
- Fox announces that Ellen DeGeneres will replace Paula Abdul on American Idol's judging panel for its upcoming ninth season, and it's reported that the The Ellen DeGeneres Show star inked a five-year deal with the network.
- DeGeneres states she'll be honest -- but not mean -- as an Idol judge and Fox rejects claims that she's not qualified to serve on the panel. While Abdul publicly wishes DeGeneres the "best of luck," it's reported that she was privately "stung" by the replacement.
- John Graziano leaves the hospital two years after he was left with permanent brain damage from a car crash while the passenger in a vehicle driven by former Hogan Knows Best star Nick Hogan.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch requests his immediate release from jail after his August arrest for participating in several media interviews that were not approved by the Federal Burear of Prisons. The judge denies Hatch's request and he appeals.
- Survivor crew members are unharmed by an earthquake and tsunami that hits Samoa only weeks after Survivor: Heroes vs. Villians finished production.
- A&E's Intervention wins Outstanding Reality Program honors at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards ceremony. One week later, The Amazing Race claims Outstanding Reality-Competition Program honors for the seventh year in a row while Survivor host Jeff Probst takes home the Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality-Competition Program award for the second straight year. Probst subsequently states The Amazing Race should pull itself from the category due to its dominance.
- America's Got Talent judge David Hasselhoff is reportedly hospitalized due to heavy drinking, however he subsequently states it was due to a bad reaction to a drug he's taking and not alcohol.
- Survivor Africa winner Ethan Zohn reveals his cancer has returned and resumes treatment.
- Antonio Ballatore is crowned HGTV Design Star's fourth-season winner.
- The Johnston family wins CBS' There Goes the Neighborhood reality series.
- Indicted former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay suffers a foot injury while rehearsing for Dancing with the Stars.
- More to Love bachelor Luke Conley proposes to Tali -- and she accepts -- during the Fox reality dating series' finale.
- Survivor: Samoa castaway Elizabeth Kim alleges several of her fellow castaways were racist.
- Jordan Lloyd wins Big Brother's eleventh-season, defeating Natalie Martinez by a 5-2 jury vote.
- The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice gives birth to a baby girl.
- So You Think You Can Dance announces Adam Shankman is joining its judging panel as a regular member.
- Former American Idol sixth-season finalist Lakisha Jones gives birth to a baby girl.
- Reports that Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami star Khloe Kardashian is engaged to NBA star Lamar Odom after only a few weeks of dating surface. Kardashian subsequently confirms the reports and the couple weds less than two weeks later -- however it is reported that the marriage won't become legally binding until a prenuptial agreement is finalized.
- Reports that Simon Cowell is close to inking a new deal that will keep him on American Idol's judging panel and also bring his U.K. The X Factor reality series stateside surface.
- An additional report that Cowell is working on a new dance-themed reality series to rival So You Think You Can Dance surfaces and Nigel Lythgoe claims he is "thrilled" to hear about it.
- Reports that MTV has decided to air Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein's Gone Too Far intervention reality series despite his August death surface and his passing is ruled an accidental drug overdose.
- Big Brother host Julie Chen and CBS chief Les Moonves welcome a baby boy.
- Original American Idol runner-up Justin Guarini marries his former high school sweetheart.
- Garrett Paul and Jessica Stout get engaged at Elimination Station after becoming the second team eliminated from The Amazing Race's fifteenth season.
- We Are Heroes win America's Best Dance Crew's fourth-season title.
- The Hills star Kristin Cavallari says the MTV reality series isn't real and she just does what the producers tell her to do.
- Former The Hills star Lauren Conrad inks a movie deal for her debut novel "L.A. Candy."
Premieres: America's Next Top Model, Cycle 13 (9/9); So You Think You Can Dance, Season 6 (9/9); The Locator, Season 3 (9/12); Eddie Griffin: Going for Broke (9/14); The Biggest Loser, Season 8 (9/15); Launch My Line (9/16); Survivor: Samoa, Season 19 (9/17); Extreme Cuisine with Jeff Corwin (9/17); Dancing with the Stars, Season 9 (9/21); Rescue Ink Unleashed (9/25); The Amazing Race, Season 15 (9/27); Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Season 7 (9/27); My Fair Wedding, Season 2 (9/27); The Hills, Season 5 (9/29); King of the Crown (9/30).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, December 28, 2009 - 01:36 PM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the eighth installment: August 2009.
- Former Survivor castaways and The Amazing Race contestants Rob and Amber Mariano reveal they have had a baby girl.
- America's Next Top Model reveals it is replacing Paulina Porizkova with a series of guest judges for its upcoming thirteenth season.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 returns with new episodes for the first time since Jon and Kate Gosselin announced their separation in June. Jon claims that Kate quit on their marriage last October and Kate states their marriage is definitely over and would have failed even without Jon & Kate Plus 8.
- Jon Gosselin states he doesn't want to do Jon & Kate Plus 8 anymore before denying he said it, and producers for the new tentatively-titled Divorced Dad's Club reality series refute reports that they're in talks with him about starring in it.
- Police are forced to respond to Jon and Kate Gosselin's home after Kate arrived on a day Jon had custody of their eight children. In addition, Kate attributes her husband's strange behavior in recent months to an alien abduction.
- Paula Abdul announces via her Twitter account that she's decided to leave American Idol. According to subsequent reports, she rejected a $5 million a year offer to remain on the reality series. Experts doubt Abdul's exit will impact the show's ratings and ad sales.
- Fox announces it will likely replace Abdul with a series of guest judges for the upcoming ninth-season auditions -- beginning with Victoria Beckham.
- Abdul says her decision to leave Idol was a matter of "principle" and her manager claims there have been "no discussions" about a possible return. Abdul also claims she's received "many wonderful" offers since announcing her Idol exit -- including hosting VH1's VH1 Divas revival.
- Reports that The Bachelorette fifth-season winner Ed Swiderski had two girlfriends before, during and after the filming of the show emerge. He subsequently denies the alleged girlfriends' claims, and Jillian Harris stands by her man.
- Jeanine Mason is crowned So You Think You Can Dance's fifth-season champion.
- An autopsy reveals that cocaine use contributed to the death of Pitchmen star Billy Mays, however his family claims they never saw any signs of drug use by the infomercial king.
- Former Dancing with the Stars sixth-season couple Derek Hough and Shannon Elizabeth announce they've split.
- Former American Idol third-season finalist Jennifer Hudson gives birth to a baby boy.
- Former Survivor: The Australian Outback castaway Elisabeth Hasselbeck gives birth to her third child.
- American Idol's production company reveals it believes Simon Cowell is close to signing a new deal to remain with the show.
- Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami star Kourtney Kardashian reveals she's pregnant.
- Dancing with the Stars reveals its upcoming ninth season will feature three double eliminations and early training limitations to reduce celebrity injuries.
- Reality TV villainess Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth reveals she's entering the seminary.
- Former The Bachelor second-season star Aaron Buerge gets married.
- Big Brother eleventh-season houseguest Chima Simone unexpectedly leaves the house. Host Julie Chen claims Simone gave producers no choice but to boot her. It is subsequently learned that she was expelled following several rules violations and she eventually apologizes.
- Former So You Think You Can Dance choreographer Alex Da Silva is charged with sexual assault and subsequently pleads not guilty.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch is arrested and jailed after participating in several media interviews while on house arrest as he serves the final few months of his 51-month prison sentence.
- Hatch's lawyer claims he was imprisoned because of a "little misunderstanding" about whether all of the interviews were approved by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. A hearing is held, however Hatch remains behind bars.
- The Biggest Loser couple Nicole Brewer and Damien Gurganious get married.
- Mexican cuisine chef Rick Bayless is crowned Top Chef Masters' champion.
- The DiSalvatore family wins NBC's Great American Road Trip reality series.
- Megan Wants a Millionaire suitor Ryan Jenkins is named a "person of interest" in the murder of Jasmine Fiore, causing VH1 to pull the reality dating series from the air in the midst of its broadcast run.
- Authorities launch a manhunt for Jenkins, who they suspect may have fled the U.S. for his native Canada. A $25,000 reward is offered in the search for Jenkins, who is officially charged with murder in Fiore's death.
- Reports that Jenkins begged Megan Wants a Millionaire's producers to pre-pay him the $250,000 grand prize he allegedly won on I Love Money 3, another upcoming VH1 reality series, surface.
- Jenkins is found dead from an apparent suicide in a secluded Canadian motel an unidentified woman checked him into. Police subsequently identify the woman but decline to reveal her identity and announce she will not be charged. Reports that the woman was Jenkins' half-sister surface.
- Evidence linking Jenkins to Fiore's murder is found in her abandoned car in California, however his parents still insist their son couldn't have been capable of murder.
- VH1 decides to cancel both Megan Wants a Millionaire and I Love Money 3.
- A&E confirms that its documentary on the Jackson family will become a reality series despite Michael Jackson's June death.
- Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein, the star of MTV's upcoming Gone Too Far intervention reality series, is found dead at age 36 from an apparent drug overdose.
Premieres: Megan Wants a Millionaire (8/2); Tool Academy, Season 2 (8/2); Real Chance of Love: Back in the Saddle (8/3); Addicted to Beauty (8/4); How'd You Get So Rich? (8/6); America's Best Dance Crew, Season 4 (8/6); There Goes the Neighborhood (8/9); Shark Tank (8/9); Flipping Out, Season 3 (8/17); Ghost Hunters, Season 5 (8/19); Project Runway, Season 6 (8/20); Models of the Runway (8/20); The Rachel Zoe Project, Season 2 (8/25).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Sunday, December 27, 2009 - 12:27 PM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the seventh installment: July 2009.
- CBS reveals Big Brother's eleventh-season cast and announces it will begin with a "high schools clique" twist. In addition, former Big Brother tenth-season cast member Jessie Godderz enters the eleventh-season house once the competition begins.
- Divorcing Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin travels to the French Riviera with new girlfriend Hailey Glassman to launch a new clothing line with Ed Hardy designer Christian Audigier -- whose representative denies the clothing line before Audigier confirms it is happening.
- Jon Gosselin accepts criticism for dating Glassman -- who is either dating him to "get famous" or "upset" about the resulting publicity, according to conflicting reports -- so soon after his separation from Kate.
- Jon Gosselin denies a report that he's planning to propose to Glassman and also refutes rumors that he's dating Star reporter Kate Major, who was assigned to cover him for the magazine. Jon also moves into his new New York City apartment as Kate puts her clothing line on hold.
- TLC announces Jon & Kate Plus 8 will return as previously announced in August, but will do so with no interview couch.
- Rejected The Bachelorette suitor Jake Pavelka claims that suitor Wes Hayden had a girlfriend during filming and the two of them are "in cahoots" on his appearance on the show to gain notoriety as a singer.
- Hayden's alleged girlfriend states she is "absolutely not" dating him, and he is eventually ousted by star Jillian Harris. Hayden subsequently denies he had a girlfriend while filming for the show and claims false editing.
- Discovery airs Pitchmen: A Tribute to Billy Mays and renews the reality series for a second season despite Mays' June death. Mays is also laid to rest in Pennsylvania.
- American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi marries longtime boyfriend Mike McCuddy in Maine.
- American Idol judge Paula Abdul reveals she's been "invited to stay" on the show's judging panel, however her manager states she might not be returning. In addition, Simon Cowell makes it clear he wants Abdul to return.
- The Biggest Loser couple Marty and Amy Wolff welcome a son.
- Reports that American Idol judge Simon Cowell is in talks to launch his U.K. The X Factor reality series in the U.S. surface and he calls a report that he signed a new $144 million contract to continue on Idol "absolute nonsense."
- American Idol host Ryan Seacrest signs a new $45 million, three-year deal to continue helming the show.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch files a court motion requesting he be allowed to travel to Samoa to film Survivor's twentieth season, which his filing confirms will be an all-stars edition. A judge subsequently denies Hatch's request.
- Former The Hills star Lauren Conrad has her debut novel "L.A. Candy" reach No. 1 on The New York Times Best Sellers List.
- Marlo and Mark Corliss win Here Come the Newlyweds' second season.
- The future of new A&E reality series that was to follow Michael Jackson and his brothers becomes uncertain after the singer died last month at the age of 50.
- The Hills star Holly Montag reiterates she's not dating fellow former I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! participant Sanjaya Malakar but adds the two are "close."
- Reality television shows receive a record 63 Emmy Award nominations, led for the third consecutive year by ABC's Dancing with the Stars.
- A report that Bethenny Frankel is leaving The Real Housewives of New York City for own Bravo reality series surfaces.
- The Millionaire Matchmaker star Patti Stanger gets engaged to her longtime boyfriend.
- Former American Idol hopeful Alexis Cohen dies at age 25 when she is struck by a car in New Jersey. The vehicle's driver is subsequently charged in her death.
- Former reality television producer Ben Silverman announces he's leaving his position as NBC's programming chief for a new venture.
- The Bachelorette star Jillian Harris selects suitor Ed Swiderski during the show's final Rose Ceremony. He proposes marriage and she accepts, and the couple subsequently tells reporters that they'll wed within 12 months.
- Former The Celebrity Apprentice candidate and I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! participant Stephen Baldwin files for bankruptcy.
- American Idol executive producer Ken Warwick signs a new deal to continue with the reality series.
- Former Hogan Knows Best co-stars Hulk and Linda Hogan reach a settlement in their acrimonious divorce.
Premieres: Great American Road Trip (7/7); Big Brother, Season 11 (7/9); Ghost Hunters International, Season 2 (7/9); Keyshawn Johnson: Tackling Design (7/11); Miami Social (7/14); HGTV Design Star, Season 4 (7/19); Dating in the Dark (7/20); Hell's Kitchen, Season 6 (7/21); The Colony (7/21); More to Love (7/28); The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Season 2 (7/30).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Saturday, December 26, 2009 - 11:15 AM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the sixth installment: June 2009.
- NBC's I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! revival premieres with The Hills' stars Spencer and Heidi Pratt, however they quit the competition only a few days into it. While it is reported that they're gone for good, the couple is offered an opportunity to return if the other celebrity castaways will accept them back.
- Spencer and Heidi return to I'm a Celebrity but quickly leave the competition again -- this time alleging they were tortured, causing NBC executive Paul Telegdy to say they represent "everything that's wrong with America." Heidi's sister Holly Montag joins the cast as a replacement
- Original The Real Housewives of Orange County star Jeana Keough reveals she may not return for the show's fifth season.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 stars Jon and Kate Gosselin spend their 10th anniversary weekend apart and reveal they plan on making a big announcement on the next episode of their reality show. They subsequently announce their separation during the episode -- which delivers record ratings -- and file for divorce.
- Kate claims Jon committed unspecified "activities" that gave her no choice but to file for divorce. According to her, the marriage is "irretrievably broken," and Jon had wanted a divorce for a long time.
- Jon claims he is hurt by Kate's comments and begins searching for a new bachelor pad and job in New York City. He also denies the couple's children are being exploited for the show and states insists they are happy.
- TLC announces Jon & Kate Plus 8 will be on hiatus until August, but it won't change the show's title and didn't film the children learning about the separation. In addition, the network also denies Deanna Hummel, Jon's alleged mistress, will begin appearing on the show when it returns.
- After sparring in the media, Jon and Kate announce they are "no longer commenting publicly."
- So You Think You Can Dance reveals its Top 20 fifth-season finalists.
- Branden Rickman wins Make Me a Supermodel's second season.
- Britain's Got Talent runner-up Susan Boyle is admitted to a mental health clinic due to exhaustion. She wows a live audience after being released.
- American Idol judge Paula Abdul says she is "not sure" whether she'll be returning to the Fox reality series given her contract has expired. While she begins negotiations to return, she denies a report that she'll "definitely" be back.
- American Idol eighth-season runner-up Adam Lambert boasts his upcoming Rolling Stone cover story interview will answer "all your questions." It confirms he's gay and reveals he was attracted to Idol winner Kris Allen.
- Allen and Lambert both sign recording contracts, as does fourth-place finisher Allison Iraheta.
- Hi Fi Recordings and Wilshire Records reveals plans to release an album of material Lambert recorded pre-American Idol, but he insists the music "in no way reflects" who he is as an artist. The label subsequently defends its decision to release the album.
- Survivor host Jeff Probst reveals the CBS reality series will film back-to-back editions this summer and it is eventually reported that the two new seasons will take place in Samoa.
- A report states that The Hills star Stephanie Pratt claims the MTV reality show made her bulimic, however she subsequently denies it.
- Jilted The Bachelor star and former Dancing with the Stars celebrity participant Melissa Rycroft joins ABC's Good Morning America as a correspondent. She also gets engaged to boyfriend Ty Strickland.
- MTV lands Audrina Patridge's new Mark Burnett-produced reality series.
- Lou Diamond Phillips wins NBC's I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! revival.
- Former Chasing Farrah star Farrah Fawcett dies from cancer at age 62. TV Land announces it will re-air Chasing Farrah to honor the former Charlie's Angels star.
- Simon Cowell reportedly decides to stop judging his U.K. The X Factor reality competition after its 2009 edition. In addition, he's also reportedly offered an Oprah Winfrey-size deal to remain on American Idol.
- Billy Mays, the 50-year-old star of numerous infomercials and co-star of Discovery Channel's Pitchmen reality series, is found dead at his Tampa home. While his infomercials are pulled, Discovery schedules a Pitchmen marathon and organizes a Billy Mays tribute show.
- Dancing with the Stars judge Len Goodman reveals he had surgery for prostate cancer.
- Former The Girls Next Door and upcoming Kendra star Kendra Wilkinson marries to NFL star Hank Baskett and reveals she's pregnant.
- The Hills star Spencer Pratt claims he was lying when he took responsibility for starting the rumor that Lauren Conrad had made a sex tape with ex-boyfriend Jason Wahler and insists the sex tape was real. Conrad subsequently says producers faked the scene where Pratt apologized to her over the phone.
- Sharon Denise Leming, the mother of former seventh-season American Idol contestant Josiah Leming, dies at age 41 after a long battle with cancer.
- Jeff Archuleta, the controversial alleged "stage dad" father of seventh-season American Idol runner-up David Archuleta, pleads no contest to soliciting a prostitute stemming from a January incident. Archuleta thanks fans for their support a she deals with his dad's legal troubles.
- The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Danielle Staub gets a temporary restraining order preventing her ex-boyfriend Stephen Zalewski from releasing a sex tape of her.
- Although he previously quit the competition because he allegedly needed to return to work, suitor Ed Swiderski returns to The Bachelorette's fifth season and resumes wooing Jillian Harris.
Premieres: I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, Season 2 (6/1); Paris Hilton's My New BFF, Season 2 (6/2); Whale Wars, Season 2 (6/5); The Next Food Network Star, Season 5 (6/7); Bridezillas, Season 6 (6/7); Kendra (6/7); Denise Richards: It's Complicated, Season 2 (6/7); Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, Season 5 (6/8); Top Chef Masters (6/10) She's Got the Look, Season 2 (6/11); 16 & Pregnant (6/11); Hammertime (6/14); Wedding Day (6/16); I Survived a Japanese Game Show, Season 2 (6/17); The Singing Bee (6/20); America's Got Talent, Season 4 (6/23); The Superstars (6/23); NYC Prep (6/23); Dance Your Ass Off (6/29).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, December 25, 2009 - 10:19 AM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the fifth installment: May 2009.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin claims that he and schoolteacher Deanna Hummel are "just friends" despite reports that he is having an affair with her.
- Deanna Hummel's brother subsequently claims she is having an affair with Gosselin and he knows because he's overheard the two of them having sex repeatedly. Hummel denies her brother's allegations, and so does Jon -- leading to his wife Kate Gosselin says she is "very hesitant" to believe the infidelity reports while family friends also defend Jon.
- Kate Gosselin refutes reports that she's having an affair with family bodyguard Steven Neild, however Jon allegedly states he is still worried about his wife's relationship with the bodyguard.
- Kate Gosselin says it's "hell" being on tabloid magazine covers and both she and Jon state uncertainty about whether or not their marriage can survive.
- Kate Gosselin's estranged brother and sister-in-law allege Jon and Kate's eight children are being exploited, and Pennsylvania Department of Labor confirms it is investigating whether Jon & Kate Plus 8 is violating child labor laws after gets an receiving a complaint.
- TLC confirms Jon & Kate Plus 8 will continue despite all the family issues and the show's fifth-season premiere sets series ratings records.
- Adam Cook, the oldest brother of American Idol seventh-season winner David Cook, dies at age 37 after battling brain cancer for more than a decade.
- American Idol judge Paula Abdul performs her heavily-hyped new single "[I'm Just] Here For The Music" on the Fox reality competition.
- Joan Rivers defeats Annie Duke and wins The Celebrity Apprentice's second season.
- "Sibling Lawyers" Tammy Jih and Victor Jih win The Amazing Race's fourteenth season.
- Paulina Porizkova announces she was fired from her position as an America's Next Top Model judge. The CW subsequently confirms Porizkova she is no longer with the show and Top Model creator Tyra Banks states the move was made due to budge cuts.
- Helen Phillips wins The Biggest Loser: Couples by losing 140 pounds.
- Former Laguna Beach star Kristin Cavallari confirms she's joining The Hills, while Lauren Conrad denies reports that she's returning to the MTV reality series.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch is moved from prison to a halfway house.
- Teyona Anderson wins America's Next Top Model's twelfth season.
- Danny Veltri defeats Paula Dasilva to win Hell's Kitchen's fifth season.
- Reports that Fox is planning to air So You Think You Can Dance's sixth season in the fall begin to surface. Fox subsequently confirms it -- marking the first time the dance-themed reality series will air outside of the summer programming season.
- Former The Bachelorette star Jen Schefft gets married to Joe Waterman in Chicago.
- Survivor: Africa champ Ethan Zohn is diagnosed with cancer.
- Olympic gold medalist gymnast Shawn Johnson and her professional partner Mark Ballas win Dancing with the Stars eighth season.
- James "JT" Thomas Jr. wins Survivor: Tocantins via a unanimous Tribal Council vote.
- Kris Allen defeats Adam Lambert to win American Idol's eighth-season title, but judge Simon Cowell still voices skepticism about Allen's staying power.
- An Arkansas television station gets Lambert fans in a uproar by claiming Allen's home state somehow managed to cast 38 million finale votes for him, however AT&T and Fox state the Arkansas party voters weren't responsible for deciding the outcome and the station subsequently retracts the report.
- American Idol second-season champ Clay Aiken bashes Lambert and but then apologizes for what he calls a "colorful" critique of the new runner-up.
- Lambert tells the public to "keep speculating" about his sexuality while host Ryan Seacrest reveals Lambert will be addressing his sexuality "soon." Lambert eventually "comes out" on the cover of Rolling Stone.
- Bravo announces it is developing The Real Housewives of D.C. -- the fifth installment in its The Real Housewives reality series franchise.
- Internet sensation Susan Boyle makes it to Britain's Got Talent's finale broadcast -- however the pressure is apparently getting to her, as judge Piers Morgan claims she threatened to quit the competition and her spokesperson said she lost her cool after being harassed. Boyle eventually finishes in second place.
- So You Think You Can Dance lead judge Nigel Lythgoe apologizes for his reaction to seeing two male dancers audition together during the show's fifth-season.
- A report claims that American Idol judge Paula Abdul admitted to a painkiller addiction and undergoing rehab, however she subsequently denies it and inists she "never checked into a rehab clinic, never was addicted to or abused drugs, and [has] never been addicted or abused alcohol."
Premieres: New York Goes to Work (5/4); The Fashion Show (5/7); Charm School, Season 3 (5/11); The Real Housewives of New Jersey (5/12); The Bachelorette, Season 5 (5/18); 4th & Long (5/18); So You Think You Can Dance, Season 5 (5/21); Intervention, Season 7 (5/25); Jon & Kate Plus 8, Season 5 (5/25); Obsessed (5/25); Here Come the Newlyweds, Season 2 (5/25); Cake Boss (5/25); The Little Couple (5/26); Hitched or Ditched (5/26); Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, Season 2 (5/26); Wipeout, Season 2 (5/27); Tattoo Highway (5/27); What Not to Wear, Season 7 (5/29); Jesse James is a Dead Man (5/31); Ice Road Truckers, Season 3 (5/31); HGTV's $250,000 Challenge (5/31); Expedition Africa: Stanley & Livingstone (5/31).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 - 08:52 AM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the fourth installment: April 2009.
- American Idol fourth-season winner Carrie Underwood and Dancing with the Stars professional Julianne Hough win Academy of Country Music awards, however Underwood subsequently apologizes for her acceptance speech after some viewers construed a comment as a sexual reference.
- Hough's boyfriend and eighth-season celebrity partner Chuck Wicks says an engagement is coming but denies he's planning to propose on the show. Hough and Wick are eventually eliminated, and she says participating on the show together gave their relationship a spark. In addition, Hough reiterates that she still plans to skip Dancing with the Stars ninth season in the fall.
- Project Runway's lawsuit finally comes to an end but Lifetime announces the sixth season still won't premiere until August. Fashion guru Tim Gunn blames the premiere's delay on Bravo's new The Fashion Show reality series and teases that the season will include a "shocker" in which one contestant is accused of cheating.
- The Bachelorette lovebirds Trista and Ryan Sutter welcome the birth of a baby girl.
- So You Think You Can Dance choreographer Alex Da Silva is arrested on suspicion of rape, however the district attorney later claims there is insufficient evidence to charge him.
- America's Next Top Model reschedules March's thirteenth-season New York City casting call that was canceled after chaos broke out. It goes off without a hitch this time.
- Former Survivor: China castaways Jaime Dugan and Erik Huffman get married.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin denies being involved with Deanna Hummel after they are photographed leaving a bar together and claims he has never cheated on his wife Kate. TLC also announces the reality series will return for a fifth season in May.
- Reports that The Real World's next installment will film in Washington, D.C. begin to surface.
- VH1 reportedly begins filming its Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew sex addiction spinoff.
- MTV announces that The Hills will continue without Lauren Conrad as Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt get married for real after they initially eloped. MTV camera crews film the nuptials -- which are attended by Conrad and her reported The Hills replacement, former Laguna Beach star Kristin Cavallari.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch asks if he can serve his prison release in Argentina so he can be with his boyfriend, but a judge rejects the request.
- Dancing with the Stars professional Maksim Chmerkovskiy denies Steve Wozniak's claims that he will be walking Chmerkovskiy's fiancee Karina Smirnoff down the aisle at their wedding.
- Simon Cowell reveals he may leave American Idol once his current contract expires after the show's ninth season and insists it is not a negotiating ploy. He later clarifies the comments but is still adamant that he is only interested in remaining with the show if it's able to keep its top spot in the ratings.
- Former American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe says he doesn't think Cowell would ever actually leave the show.
- New American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi also denies that she's quitting the show while Paula Abdul -- whose contract expires at the end of the 2009 edition -- claims the show could never replace her.
- The cast for NBC's I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! revival begins to take shape and while former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is sought after by the network, a judge denies the request.
- Susan Boyle becomes a worldwide Internet sensation after her Britain's Got Talent audition airs.
- A report that jailed NFL star Michael Vick is shopping a post-release reality series surfaces, however his agent denies it.
- MTV orders Gone Too Far, a new reality series that will follow former drug addict Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein as he attempts to help addicts kick the habit.
- American Idol's judging panel uses the show's new The Judges' Save twist to save Matt Giraud from elimination. Paula Abdul claims Simon Cowell wasn't sure about using it on Giraud, and he subsequently states the only reason he agreed to do so is because the alternative choices for saving weren't much better. Giraud is still eliminated a few weeks later and finishes in fifth.
- E! orders The Lamas Family, a new reality series that will follow The Bachelor: London Calling winner Shayne Lamas and her family -- which includes her dad, former Are You Hot? judge Lorenzo Lamas.
- Big Brother host Julie Chen reveals she is pregnant with her first child with CBS president Les Moonves.
- American Idol seventh-season winner David Cook cancels several tour dates due to "family matters."
- Dancing with the Stars celebrity participant Shawn Johnson is granted a restraining order against her alleged stalker.
- Reports that former American Idol third-season finalist Jennifer Hudson is pregnant with her first child emerge.
- 18 Kids and Counting stars Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar reveal they are set to become grandparents as their son and his wife are expecting their first child.
Premieres: River Monsters (4/5); Mythbusters, Season 7 (4/8); American Chopper, Season 6 (4/9); Style Her Famous, Season 3 (4/11); Groomer Has It, Season 2 (4/11); Doing DaVinci (4/13); College Life (4/13); Deadliest Catch, Season 5 (4/14); Out of the Wild: The Alaska Experiment (4/14); Nanny 911, Season 4 (4/19); Cake Boss (4/19); Build It Bigger (4/20); The Phone (4/21).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, December 22, 2009 - 03:43 PM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the third installment: March 2009.
- Terminally ill former British Big Brother star Jade Goody dies from cancer. She was 27.
- Charm School contestant Megan Hauserman sues host Sharon Osbounre over an altercation the two had on the VH1 reality series.
- Jason Mesnick tells reporters he has "found the one" and is "in love" before he proposes to Melissa Rycroft -- and she accepts -- during The Bachelor's pre-taped final thirteenth-season Rose Ceremony.
- Mesnick subsequently dumps Rycroft on the show's After the Final Rose special for original runner-up Molly Malaney. While Mesnick defends his decision and apologizes to viewers, producers claim he didn't need to dump Rycroft on air.
- Former The Bachelorette star Trista Sutter and The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman star Andy Baldwin both slam Mesnick, while ex-The Bachelor star Andrew Firestone states Mesnick was acting like an ass and The Bachelor: London Calling star Matt Grant feels Mesnick "kind of committed suicide."
- Rycroft eventually breaks her silence about the incident and Mesnick and Malaney claim they are still "happy" despite the backlash. Host Chris Harrison feels "something changed" between Mesnick and Rycroft, leading to the split.
- The Real Housewives of New York City star Kelly Bensimon is arrested on misdemeanor assault charges for assaulting Nicholas Stefanov, her 30-year-old boyfriend.
- Dancing with the Stars' eighth season is hit with injuries before it even premieres when singer Jewel and Access Hollywood co-host Nancy O'Dell are both forced to withdraw from the competition due to different ailments. They are replaced by jilted The Bachelor suitor Melissa Rycroft (whose biggest supporter is Jason Mesnick) and The Girls Next Door star Holly Madison -- and the injury bug quickly bites Madison, as she is hobbled by pain in her ribs. In addition, celebrity participants Steve Wozniak and Stephen "Steve-O" Glover are also hit with injuries.
- ABC reveals Jillian Harris will serve as The Bachelorette's fifth-season star -- however she was actually the network's third choice behind Melissa Rycroft and Molly Malaney.
- Jon & Kate Plus 8 star Jon Gosselin denies reports that his marriage to Kate is in trouble.
- Lauren Conrad and The Hills producers confirm that she's leaving the show -- which makes Spencer Pratt "very depressed." Conrad subsequently states "never say never" to her having more reality television roles, and The Hills producers contemplate ending the series due to her departure. In addition, Audrina Patridge inks a deal for her own Mark Burnett-produced reality series, and her possible departure from The Hills reportedly upsets producers.
- Former Project Runway finalist Kenley Collins is arrested after allegedly assaulting and throwing a cat at her sleeping fiance and was charged with suspicion of assault, menacing, harassment and criminal possession of a weapon. She subsequently denied the throwing the cat.
- American Idol seventh-season winner David Cook asks "disturbing" fans to back off.
- American Idol reveals that it will feature a Top 13 for its eighth season -- but that wasn't the "big surprise" Fox had been teasing, which is eventually revealed to be The Judges' Save twist. Several former American Idol finalists speak out about The Judges' Save twist,
- Idol judge Simon Cowell declares either Adam Lambert or Danny Gokey will win the eighth-season title.
- Fox states that it is hoping to ink new Idol judging deals with Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson.
- An alleged stalker of Dancing with the Stars celebrity participant Shawn Johnson is arrested near where the ABC reality competition's set. He subsequently pleads not guilty to stalking charges.
- Dancing with the Stars eighth-season celebrity participant Steve Wozniak is asked by his professional partner Karina Smirnoff to walk her down the aisle when she weds Maksim Chmerkovskiy.
- Chaos erupts at America's Next Top Model's thirteenth-season casting call in New York City, and police blame producers. Creator Tyra Banks states Big Apple auditions will resume at a later date and producers adopt new rules for casting calls to prevent a similar incident from occurring in the future.
- Original American Idol Kelly Clarkson has her "All I Ever Wanted" album debuts at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album sales chart.
- Former The Bachelor star Andrew Firestone and his wife Ivana welcome a baby boy.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch asks for his immediate release from prison because he claims he is innocent, was represented by ineffective lawyers and had his his prison sentence improperly calculated.
- Fox and The Bachelor creator Mike Fleiss announce they have teamed up to create More to Love -- a new reality dating series that will feature an overweight bachelor and bachelorettes.
- The Real Housewives of Orange County star Luann de Lesseps is dumped by her husband Count Alexandre de Lesseps and claims she was "blindsided" by the break-up.
Premieres: The Celebrity Apprentice, Season 2 (3/1); Running in Heels (3/1); Ax Men, Season 2 (3/2); Harlem Heights (3/2); Make Me a Supermodel, Season 2 (3/4); Sunday Best, Season 2 (3/8); Dancing with the Stars, Season 8 (3/9); WCG Ultimate Gamer (3/10); The Chopping Block (3/11); Bridget's Sexiest Beaches (3/12); The Osbournes: Reloaded (3/13); Tough Love (3/15); Taking the Stage (3/19); The Locator, Season 2 (3/21); Table for 12 (3/23); College Hill: South Beach (3/24); Pretty Wicked (3/31).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, December 21, 2009 - 02:37 PM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we continue our 12-day countdown with the second installment: February 2009.
- Former American Idol finalist Jennifer Hudson performs at the Super Bowl. While she lip-synched the performance at the insistence of the show's director, it was her first performance since her mother and nephew were murdered in the fall. Hudson and American Idol fourth-season champ Carrie Underwood also win Grammy awards and Hudson describes performing as "therapy" and announces she's embarking on a concert tour in spring.
- Project Runway's sixth-season finale films at New York Fashion Week with tighter security and decoys so the identities of the actual finalists don't leak, however the finale runway models still spill accurate spoilers about the finalists' identities.
- E! confirms it has ordered a The Girls Next Door spinoff starring Kendra Wilkinson.
- Jerry Springer announces he won't be returning as America's Got Talent's host and is tapped to star in London's Chicago theatrical run. NBC subsequently announces it will replace Springer with Nick Cannon as America's Got Talent's host.
- TLC confirms it has canceled Trading Spaces after eight seasons.
- Former Skating with Celebrities couple Kristy Swanson and Lloyd Eisler get married.
- ABC announces it will air a Wife Swap 100th episode special featuring a new swap of two families who previously appeared on the show: the Heene family from Colorado and the Silver family from Florida.
- ABC reveals Dancing with the Stars' eighth-season celebrity cast and professional partner pairings. Co-host Samantha Harris picks Olympic gold medalist gymnast Shawn Johnson -- who thought she was too short to compete on the reality series -- as her favorite to win the title.
- ABC announces it is casting for The Biggest Loser eighth-season contestants -- and trainers.
- American Idol reveals its eighth-season Top 36 semifinalists and disqualifies hopeful Joanna Pacitti. Fox reality chief Mike Darnell subsequently states Pacitti -- who had significant previous recording industry experience -- was cut for "a perceptional problem" while host Ryan Seacrest said she was disqualified due to her former "link" to the show's producers. She is replaced in the Top 36 by Felicia Barton, who learned of her spot on the show while watching the Top 36 broadcast.
- Former American Idol finalist Mikalah Gordon states she thinks eighth-season semifinalist Adam Lambert should also be disqualified because of his previous professional experience, including a theatrical run in Wicked.
- Paula Abdul claims having a fourth judge on American Idol "doesn't work" before clarifying that her remarks were "taken completely out of context."
- CBS orders two more Survivor editions -- representing the nineteenth and twentieth installments of the long-running reality series -- for the 2009-2010 primetime programming season.
- Former British Big Brother houseguest Jade Goody is diagnosed with cancer and given months to live. She subsequently vows to end her life in the media spotlight.
- TLC confirms it has potential interest in a new reality series starring controversial "Octomom" Nadya Suleman. The Bachelor creator Mike Fleiss calls Suleman "too radioactive" for a reality series, and TLC subsequently decides against pursuing the project.
- Donald Trump Jr. and his wife Vanessa welcome their second child.
- American Idol second-season runner-up Clay Aiken is reportedly dropped by RCA Records, however he subsequently states it was his decision to leave the record label.
- America's Next Top Model announces Cycle 13 open casting calls and for the first time requires applicants be 5'7" or under.
- Reports that NBC is considering reviving I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! surface.
- Lauren Conrad once again claims that The Hills upcoming new season will be her last.
- Dancing with the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba and her boyfriend -- former So You Think You Can Dance contestant Artem Chigvintsev -- break up.
- Julia Anderson is crowned the winner of ABC's True Beauty reality competition series.
- The Bachelor seventh-season couple Charlie O'Connell and Sarah Brice reveal his excessive drinking was the main reason behind their 2007 split.
- Hosea Rosenberg is crowned the winner of Bravo's Top Chef: New York.
- Rock Star: INXS winner J.D. Fortune claims he was fired by the band, which subsequently denies the allegation.
- ABC expands its The Bachelor thirteenth-season finale broadcast and creator Mike Fleiss teases that it will be "shocking" and the "most dramatic ever." He subsequently reiterated those comments as star Jason Mesnick reveals Melissa Rycroft and Molly Malaney are his two final bachelorettes. Host Chris Harrison denies the show's ending has never been scripted.
- Rejected The Bachelor suitor Jillian Harris claims there would be both pros and cons to serving as The Bachelorette's next star and added she'd have to think about it if the role was offered.
Premieres: Jockeys (2/6); The Millionaire Matchmaker, Season 2 (2/12); Survivor: Tocantins -- The Brazilian Highlands (2/12); The Amazing Race, Season 14 (2/15).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 01:20 PM EST
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With 2009 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Year In Review, a 12-part, month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
Today we begin our 12-day countdown with the first installment: January 2009.
- Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List star Kathy Griffin drops the "D-bomb" while co-hosting CNN's New Year's Eve coverage with network anchor and former The Mole host Anderson Cooper. She subsequently states her mom wouldn't talk to her after the incident.
- Dancing with the Stars professionals Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Karina Smirnoff get engaged on New Year's Eve in Las Vegas.
- The Bachelor star Jason Mesnick begins his search for love by eliminating his first 10 bachelorettes during the ABC reality dating series' thirteenth-season premiere. ABC also reveals that former The Bachelorette star DeAnna Pappas -- who rejected Mesnick during the show's fourth-season finale last year -- will make an appearance during his The Bachelor journey, and she promises it "will be worth the wait."
- Project Runway fashion guru Tim Gunn claims Lifetime is still planning on taping its sixth-season finale in February at New York Fashion Week despite the show still being in legal limbo, however producers of the reality series reportedly plan on doing their best to keep the finalists' identities a secret.
- American Idol's eighth season premieres with new fourth judge Kara DioGuardi, who also confirms she's engaged. Hopeful Joanna Pacitti receives a golden ticket to Hollywood Week despite having significant previous recording industry experience, and DioGuardi defends her advancement in the competition. Former producer Nigel Lythgoe states he misses the show since it's the first season since he announced his departure last summer, and Fox claims it is planning a potentially controversial "big surprise" when the season gets down to the Top 12. In addition, the identities of the Top 36 semifinalists leak online.
- The Biggest Loser host Alison Sweeney gives birth to a baby girl, and NBC renews the reality-weight-loss competition for an eighth and ninth season.
- CBS reveals the castaways who will be competing on Survivor: Tocantins -- The Brazilian Highlands as well as a first-impressions twist that will meet the cast as soon as they are marooned.
- Bravo drops DeShawn Snow from The Real Housewives of Atlanta's cast.
- Entertainer Donny Osmond claims he's considering going Dancing with the Stars, then clarifies that he hasn't been given a formal invite and subsequently states he's "definitely not" competing in the reality show's upcoming eighth season.
- The Bachelorette fourth-season winner Jesse Csincsak -- who split from star DeAnna Pappas last year -- makes headlines when he begins spending time with former The Bachelor bachelorette Holly Durst. The two subsequently confirm they are dating.
- American Idol seventh-season winner David Cook announces a U.S. concert tour, and so does runner-up David Archuleta. In addition, Cook and former American Idol second-season finalist Kimberly Caldwell end their romantic relationship.
- American Idol third-season champion Fantasia Barrino is reportedly ignoring notices that her North Carolina home will be auctioned, however an agreement is subsequently reached and the house never reaches auction.
- A coroner rules that Paula Abdul's alleged stalker Paula Goodspeed died from a successful suicide attempt via overdose outside of the American Idol judge's home.
- Former American Idol third-season finalist Jennifer Hudson denies she'll be singing at Barack Obama's inauguration -- however the NFL confirms that it has tapped her to perform at February's Super Bowl. In addition, Hudson and American Idol fourth-season champ Carrie Underwood are both announced as performers at the upcoming Grammy Awards ceremony.
- The Biggest Loser: Couples contestant Shanon Thomas is arrested and charged with domestic violence for allegedly throwing some flour in the face and eyes of a tenant at her Michigan home.
- Former Jackass star Johnny Knoxville is detained for bring a fake grenade to Los Angeles International Airport.
- Former American Idol sixth-season finalist Sanjaya Malakar releases a "tell-all" book.
- Deal or No Deal host Howie Mandel is hospitalized for an irregular heartbeat while filming his new hidden camera show Howie Do It. He is subsequently released, returns to work, and claims to be fine.
- Former American Idol first-season host Brian Dunkleman begins yet another comeback attempt by pitching a new sitcom.
- NBC's Momma's Boy reality series concludes with two of the show's three bachelors deciding to go against their moms' wishes by picking a female suitor their mother didn't approve of.
- The Biggest Loser: Families champion Michelle Aguilar gets engaged, and so does former Top Chef: Chicago contestant Nikki Cascone. Former American Idol sixth-season finalist Gina Glocksen also gets married.
Premieres: Underdog to Wonderdog (1/3); Superstars of Dance (1/4); Rock of Love Bus With Bret Michaels (1/4); Ultimate Recipe Showdown, Season 2 (1/4); Confessions of a Teen Idol (1/4); The Bachelor, Season 13 (1/5); True Beauty (1/5); DietTribe (1/5); Homeland Security USA (1/6); The Biggest Loser: Couples, Season 2 (1/6); Dirty Jobs, Season 5 (1/6); The Real World: Brooklyn (1/7); 13: Fear is Real (1/7); The Exterminators (1/7); Howie Do It (1/9); Man vs. Wild, Season 3 (1/12); American Idol, Season 8 (1/13); Chopped (1/13); Tool Academy (1/11); Randy Jackson Presents America's Best Dance Crew, Season 3 (1/15); Sober House (1/15); Treasure Quest (1/15); Will Work for Food (1/19); I Love Money, Season 2 (1/26); Hell's Kitchen, Season 5 (1/29); Toughest Cowboy (1/29).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, December 18, 2009 - 02:10 AM EST
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Couples are reportedly going to get the tough love treatment from VH1.
The network has ordered Tough Love: Couples, a spinoff of its Tough Love reality series that will follow matchmaker Steve Ward and his mother JoAnn as they help five couples contemplating marriage strengthen their relationship via a "tough love boot camp," The Hollywood Reported reported Tuesday.
Once the boot camp is over, Ward will decide on whether he feels the couples are right for each other -- however it's ultimately up to them to decide if they want to take his advice, according to The Reporter.
"Tough Love has become a signature series for VH1 and one that has resonated with millions of our viewers, resulting in thousands of couples applying to be on the show in just the first few weeks of casting," VH1 programming executive Jeff Olde told The Reporter.
"We are excited to take the next step with this series by taking the Wards' unfiltered honesty and matchmaking skills and apply those lessons to couples about to take the big leap, despite some lingering questions."
VH1 has reportedly ordered eight one-hour episodes of Tough Love: Couples, which is set to premiere next year.
Tough Love's first season premiered in March and averaged 1.9 million total viewers throughout its eight-episode run. Its second season premiered last month.
Tough Love and its new spinoff are produced by Drew Barrymore's Flower Films production company and High Noon Entertainment.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, December 16, 2009 - 08:17 AM EST
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Fox has announced actress Alyson Hannigan, country singer LeAnn Rimes and comedian Cedric the Entertainer will all step up to the stove in-studio for Gordon Ramsay: Cookalong Live, which will air live on Tuesday, December 15 at 9PM ET/PT.
During the one-hour special, Ramsay will guide the celebrities and home viewers with step-by-step instructions on how to cook a three-course meal that will feed four and includes angel hair pasta with shrimp, chili peppers and tomatoes for an appetizer, steak diane with sauteed potatoes and peas as a main course, and a quick tiramisu for dessert.
Fox ordered Gordon Ramsay: Cookalong Live as part of a 2008 deal with Ramsay that included Hell's Kitchen's recently-concluded sixth season and an additional seventh edition, a third season of Kitchen Nightmares, and a third yet-to-be-announced new series.
The special is based on a cooking show that aired in the U.K. last January.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, December 15, 2009 - 02:54 PM EST
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ABC has announced Conveyor Belt of Love, an hour-long reality dating special that will give several women the opportunity to choose from a group of men moving along a conveyor belt, will air Monday, January 4 at 10 PM ET/PT.
Conveyor Belt of Love will follow five women who will be presented 30 men one at a time. Each guy will have 60 seconds to impress the ladies and if one of them is interested, that guy can step off the conveyor belt and will have to wait as the rest of the men go by.
However if another man comes by on the belt and the woman favors him over her previous choice, she can swap her current guy out. The women can make as many swaps as they want until the last man has passed by.
If two or more of the women are interested in the same guy, it is then up to the man to choose which one he would like to wait for.
Once all 30 men have passed by on the conveyor belt, each woman is left with her final choice -- with whom she will then go on a date with to see if their is a real romantic connection.
The special will air in the timeslot immediately following ABC's two-hour debut of The Bachelor: On the Wings of Love -- the reality dating series' fourteenth installment that will star former The Bachelorette fifth-season bachelor Jake Pavelka.
Conveyor Belt of Love is being produced by Endemol USA.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, December 10, 2009 - 10:07 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, December 08, 2009 - 01:49 AM EST
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Two U.K. I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! contestants will apparently have to answer for their decision to kill and eat a rat during an episode of the reality competition series.
British I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! ninth-season winner Gino D'Acampo and fellow contestant Stuart Manning have been charged by Australian police with animal cruelty for the incident, BBC News reported Monday.
D'Acampo, a celebrity chef, and Manning, an actor, have been ordered to appear in court on February 3 to answer to the charges.
"The killing of a rat for a performance is not acceptable. The concern is this was done purely for the cameras," Australia's Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals chief inspector David Oshannessy told the BBC.
Oshannessy added there was a "code of practice" that dictated how animals could be used in theatrical productions and films and said the RSPCA sends staff whenever animals are used -- so he had been in contact with I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'s producers before the rat was killed.
"But we received no pre-notice or advice this segment was going to occur, it happened on a day no animals were featuring in production, so we didn't have an officer there," Oshannessy told the BBC, adding what occurred on the show was "not acceptable."
ITV -- which broadcasts I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in the U.K. -- has since apologized for the incident and said it will "tighten" up its procedures in the future.
"ITV apologizes for this error, and to the celebrities concerned, and will put in place procedures for next year's series to ensure that this cannot happen again," an ITV spokesman told BBC News.
The incident occurred when I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'s cast was divided into two groups -- one of which contained D'Acampo and Manning and was given meager rations.
As the group grew concerned about their lack of energy to compete in physical challenges, they decided to kill and eat a rat.
"It's not done by choice but it's done because we need it. We need some kind of protein, we need some kind of flavor," said D'Acampo in a confessional during the episode, according to BBC News.
"I saw one of these rats running around. I got a knife, I got its throat, I picked it up."
While BBC News reported no charges were filed against ITV, the network's spokesman said production did clear the killing of the rat.
"The production was asked if a rat could be caught and eaten by the celebrities in exile camp to supplement the basic rations they had been provided with for their evening meal," the spokesman told BBC News.
"Having sought health and safety advice, the go-ahead was given purely on this basis... the production was unaware that killing a rat could be an offence."
I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'s ninth-season finale aired last week.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, December 07, 2009 - 11:00 AM EST
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Mia Michaels has reiterated that a return to reality television is definitely in her future.
"These rumors are very true. I can't go into details about it, but there are three separate shows we're working on, and all three of them are very different," she told The Wall Street Journal in a Wednesday report.
"One is a choreography show, one is a doc-reality show of a stage show that will be touring the states and the third one was inspired by a website called 'Mia Michaels, Please Choreograph My Life.'"
The former So You Think You Can Dance choreographer and guest judge described all three projects as "all mine."
"I'm creating them, I'm in them, I'm running them," she told The Wall Street Journal.
Michaels announced last month on her Facebook and Twitter accounts that she would leaving So You Think You Can Dance effective immediately. She subsequently stated her decision to leave was to focus on "other projects," which includes work on several international So You Think You Can Dance editions.
"Basically, I felt like it was time for me to go because I wasn't growing anymore, in any capacity," she told The Wall Street Journal about her decision to leave. "I wasn't able to expand into a director, creator, producer. I had all these other opportunities in front of me."
However a return to its Fox version isn't completely out of the question.
"We definitely have kept it open, so if it's meant to be, it'll be," she told The Wall Street Journal. "I'll definitely come back as a guest, for sure."
Michaels added she is grateful for the exposure So You Think You Can Dance has given her.
"It has given a face to my work. Before, people knew my work, but they didn't necessarily know me as a personality," she explained to The Wall Street Journal.
"In real life, when you're out, people recognize you, and that's been a big change. I never turn on personality for TV. I'm just Mia, all the time, and that is very important to me. I see a lot of people who, as soon as the cameras turn on, they become something else, and that's so gross to me."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, November 27, 2009 - 11:50 AM EST
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TLC has announced it has ordered Craving Comfort, a new reality series that will take a look at some of America's favorite comfort foods and the obsessions associated with them.
Each half-hour episode of the tentatively-titled series will follow chef Art Smith as he travels across the country and focuses on a specific comfort food -- from fried chicken to apple pie -- while exploring the dish and what has engrained it so much in American culture.
In addition, three different stories about the specific comfort food will be told in each episode.
"Craving Comfort celebrates the great personal stories behind America's classic comfort foods," said TLC programming executive Nancy Daniels.
"Art Smith's passion for great food and its ability to bring people together makes him the perfect host for this journey."
TLC has ordered eight episodes of the series, which is being produced by True Entertainment.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 02:55 PM EST
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Paul Blart: Mall Cop has apparently inspired a reality series.
TLC announced it has ordered Mall Cops: Mall of America, a new reality series that will document the work of the security team at the heavily-trafficked Mall of America.
Each episode will follow the security team as they protect the Bloomington, MN-based mall -- which is the country's largest at 4.2 million square feet. It contains more than 500 stores, a seven-acre indoor theme park, 1.2 million gallon aquarium, secondary school, and wedding chapel.
TLC has ordered 12 half-hour episodes of Mall Cops: Mall of America, which is based on the one-hour special of the same name that aired earlier this fall and averaged 1.2 million total viewers.
The series is being produced by September Films, with Peter Davey and Sheldon Lazarus serving as executive producers.
The Columbia Pictures film Paul Blart: Mall Cop was released this past January and starred Kevin James.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, November 20, 2009 - 02:07 PM EST
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Fox has released the shopping list for home viewers who plan on participating in Gordon Ramsay: Cookalong Live.
The special -- which is based on a cooking show that aired in the U.K. last January and encourages viewers to cook along with the Hell's Kitchen star from their homes -- will air live on Tuesday, December 15 at 9PM ET/PT.
During the one-hour special, Ramsay will guide viewers with step-by-step instructions on how to cook a three-course meal that will feed four and includes angel hair pasta with shrimp, chili peppers and tomatoes for an appetizer, steak diane with sauteed potatoes and peas as a main course, and a quick tiramisu for dessert.
In addition, Fox is currently casting interested individuals to appear on the special from their home. More information is available via Fox's website.
Fox ordered Gordon Ramsay: Cookalong Live as part of an agreement it struck with Ramsay last September that included Hell's Kitchen's recently-concluded sixth season and an additional seventh edition, a third season of Kitchen Nightmares, and a third yet-to-be-announced new series.
The shopping list for Gordon Ramsay: Cookalong Live is:
Produce
- 1 red chili pepper
- 5 large garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 large tomato (heirloom or beefsteak)
- 1 lemon
- Small handful of fresh basil leaves
- 3 scallions
- 4 ounces crimini mushrooms, cleaned (can also use button mushrooms instead)
- 3 shallots, peeled
- Small handful of flat-leaf parsley
- 3 small sprigs of rosemary
- 1 pound small waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold, cut in half)
- 2 cups peas, defrosted if using frozen
Meat/Fish
- 1/2 pound medium-size raw, peeled shrimps
- 4 small sirloin steaks (approx. 7 ounces each)
Dairy
- 1 3/4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone
- 2 1/2 tablespoons salted butter
Pasta/Bread
- 7 ounces angel hair pasta
- 4 Italian Ladyfingers, or Savoiardi
Baking
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Piece of chocolate (to grate as garnish)
Liquor/Coffee
- 4 tablespoons Marsala, or sweet dessert wine such as Vin Santo
- 1/4 cup brandy or cognac
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1 cup cold strong coffee
Condiments
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, November 19, 2009 - 04:25 PM EST
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NBC announced it has ordered United Plates of America, a new reality competition series that will follow contestants as they vie for the opportunity to open a restaurant chain in four cities across the country.
The tentatively-titled series will begin with the contestants pitching their restaurant plans to a panel of investors, who will then put the participants and their ideas through a series of challenges designed to see which has the greatest potential for success.
The winner will be selected by a panel of "some of the most important names in both the dining and business worlds who will invest their own money in the final restaurant chain and have a huge stake in the game's winner," according to NBC.
"This is the first time the culinary and business worlds have come together in a big event series where the prize is one of the largest in reality TV history," said NBC reality chief Paul Telegdy.
"Not only will viewers get to watch the competition unfold, they'll be able to eat at the winning restaurant immediately after the show's finale."
United Plates of America is produced by Magical Elves and will be executive produced by Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz, the production company's co-founders.
The series is the latest project to result from the May 2008 exclusive first look development deal Magical Elves -- which also produces Bravo's Top Chef culinary competition -- announced with Bravo and NBC's NBC Universal parent company on the same day it also revealed it would not follow Project Runway to Lifetime from Bravo.
"This show is going to make the American Dream come true for someone out there - all they need is one great idea," said Cutforth.
"With a prize of this magnitude, we believe this show will bring together everything we love about reality TV; creative passionate contestants, a dynamic panel of experts, and fierce competition," added Lipsitz.
Since the development deal, Magical Elves has continued to produce Bravo's Top Chef and its Top Chef Masters spinoff, which Bravo recently renewed for a second season.
In addition, Magical Elves is also producing Top Chef: Just Desserts --another recently-ordered Top Chef spinoff -- and has also taken over production of Dance Your Ass Off, which airs on NBC Universal's Oxygen cable network and is currently in production on its second season.
Casting information for United Plates of America is currently available via NBC's website.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, November 19, 2009 - 04:21 PM EST
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Several reality shows and stars received nods for the 36th Annual People's Choice Awards when nominations were announced on Tuesday morning by a panel which included American Idol eighth-season champ Kris Allen, Survivor host Jeff Probst and So You Think You Can Dance host Cat Deeley.
American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, Project Runway, So You Think You Can Dance and Survivor: Samoa will compete in the Favorite Competition Show category, which has been won by Dancing with the Stars for the last two years.
Animal Cops, Dog Town, Dog Whisperer, It's Me or the Dog, and Rescue Ink Unleashed also received nods in the new Favorite Animal Show category, while The Hills was nominated in the new Favorite TV Obsession category.
American Idol fourth-season champ Carrie Underwood received nominations in the Favorite Female Artist and Favorite Country Artist categories. She previously won Favorite Female Artist honors last year and in 2007.
Allen and American Idol eighth-season runner-up Adam Lambert will compete against each other in the Favorite Breakout Music Artist category, in which Britain's Got Talent runner-up Susan Boyle also received a nod. Allen, Lambert and Boyle will all see their debut albums be released later this month.
Former American Idol fifth-season finalist Chris Daughtry's band Daughtry received a nod in the Favorite Rock Band category, while former third-season finalist Jennifer Hudson was nominated in the Favorite R&B Artist category.
In addition, America's Next Top Model star Tyra Banks' The Tyra Banks Show and new American Idol judge Ellen DeGeneres' The Ellen DeGeneres Show received nods in the Favorite Talk Show category.
Nominations for the 36th Annual People's Choice Awards were determined by national ratings averages, box-office grosses, music sales, input from media partners TV Guide magazine and Playlist.com, and vetted through an independent third-party measurement firm for Internet video.
Once this process generated the Top 12 candidates in each category, fans determined the final list of nominees by voting via the People's Choice website. Fans can vote between now and December 8 on the award show's website to determine the winners.
Survivor producer Mark Burnett will executive produce the 36th Annual People's Choice Awards, which will air live Wednesday, January 6 at 9PM ET/PT on CBS.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 - 10:50 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, November 05, 2009 - 03:21 PM EST
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Fox announced it has ordered Masterchef, a new culinary competition series that will feature Hell's Kitchen and Kitchen Nightmares star Gordon Ramsay overseeing a group of wannabe chefs with no food industry experience who are trying to take their kitchen hobby to a professional level.
The tentatively-titled series -- which is based on a long-running U.K. series -- will follow the contestants as they compete head-to-head with each other in an attempt to create delicious dishes that will ultimately be judged by world-renowned chefs. In addition, Ramsay will coach the contestants along the way with the hopes of making them professionals.
"Gordon Ramsay is the biggest cooking star on television today and one of the most dynamic personalities on Fox, so we jumped at the opportunity to work with him to bring Masterchef to the U.S.," Fox reality chief Mike Darnell said.
"Masterchef searches for people who possess that perfect blend of creativity, innovation and passion for creating great dishes -- rather than focusing on running a kitchen -- that earns them the title of MasterChef."
Masterchef will be produced by Ramsay's One Potato Two Potato production company, Reveille and Shine TV.
The reality series' format is owned by Reveille's parent Shine Group, Daily Variety reported Monday, adding the series has aired on the BBC in various incarnations since 1990. In addition, an Australian version on the show premiered in April on Network Ten, according to Variety.
"Masterchef has already become a cultural phenomenon in the U.K. and Australia, breaking ratings records in two of the world's biggest markets," said Reveille executives Mark Koops and Howard T. Owens. "We're excited to work with Fox to replicate that success while bringing a fresh, new U.S. spin to this proven format."
Fox is expected to order 12 to 15 hourlong episodes of the series, Variety reported, adding production is slated to start in the near future.
Gordon Ramsay: Cookalong Live, a special that is based on a cooking show that aired in the U.K. last January and encouraged viewers to cook along with the Hell's Kitchen star from their homes, will air live on Tuesday, December 15 at 9PM ET/PT on Fox.
"We're excited to work with Fox and Reveille to make Masterchef a huge hit," One Potato Two Potato executive Pat Llewellyn. "With Gordon Ramsay: Cookalong Live and now Masterchef, One Potato Two Potato is proud to be bringing the biggest food shows on the planet to Fox."
Fox ordered Cookalong Live as part of a large multi-year development deal it inked with Ramsay in September 2008. As part of the agreement, Fox also ordered sixth and seventh editions of Hell's Kitchen, a third season of Kitchen Nightmares and an additional unspecified new reality series.
However a Fox spokesperson was unable to immediately confirm whether Masterchef is the previously unspecified new third series or an additional new fourth series when contacted by Reality TV World on Wednesday.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, November 04, 2009 - 01:42 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, November 03, 2009 - 04:38 PM EST
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Survivor will be parodied in a new scripted British series that will chronicle the "making" of a fictional reality competition featuring a cast of disabled castaways marooned on an island.
Cast Offs, a comedy drama that will premiere later this month on the U.K.'s Channel 4, will be filmed from the viewpoint of different disabled characters played by actors with the same disabilities, Britain's The Times newspaper reported Monday.
"I hope that this will do for disability what Queer as Folk did for gay people: make people see that disabled people are no more and no less f--ked up than anyone else," producer Joel Wilson told The Times.
Characters included in Cast Offs' cast are a blind man, a deaf woman, a paraplegic man, a woman with dwarfism, a thalidomide-affected man and a woman with cherubism, according to The Times, which added the actors based their traits on real-life experiences with the disabilities.
"[Cast Offs] tries to tell the story of contemporary disabled identity from the perspective of contemporary disabled people," lead writer Jack Thorne told The Times.
"In most cases they are not defined by their disability so it becomes a story about a group of people surviving on an island."
In addition to Thorne -- who has a heat allergy -- writer Alex Bulmer is blind, meaning two of the show's three writers are disabled, according to The Times.
"This is not something that's really been seen before, showing us as adults who drink, swear and have sex," Victoria Wright -- who plays a research scientist with cherubism -- told The Times.
"I am sure there are going to be a lot of people saying, 'My goodness, I didn't know disabled people could do that.'"
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, November 02, 2009 - 02:43 PM EST
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President Barack Obama has reportedly inspired a new reality series to help whip unprepared fathers into shape.
VH1 has ordered Dad Camp, which will follow first-time fathers as they receive a tutorial on how to deal with their newly-found grown-up responsibilities, The Hollywood Reporter reported Wednesday.
The tentatively-titled series is being produced by The Biggest Loser's 3Ball production company and will be executive produced by J.D. Roth.
"In a lot of ways, men aren't what they used to be," Roth told The Reporter.
"We've made it so easy for men to walk away from their responsibilities. These guys still want to hang with their buddies, and it's time for them to man-up and take responsibility."
VH1 programming executive Jeff Olde added that the series' format was inspired by a June message from President Obama -- in which he asked fathers to "step up" and take responsibility for their children.
"Obama put that out there, and then 3Ball came in and pitched this," Olde told The Reporter. "There are real-world emotional stakes involved. It's not about winning a prize."
While Dad Camp's format sounds similar to that of VH1's Tool Academy -- which rehabilitates bad boyfriends -- Olde said the new project has "more textures" to its storytelling, according to The Reporter.
Dad Camp is part of a new VH1 programming strategy to move away from reality dating shows -- a decision that grew momentum after Megan Wants a Millionaire bachelor Ryan Jenkins was charged with murdering his ex-wife Jasmine Fiore this summer.
Jenkins then hung himself in a secluded motel after successfully eluding American and Canadian authorities and fleeing to his native Canada.
"We've been evolving for a while now, and some of the shows are aspirational, but we're not trying to be the Hallmark Channel," Olde told The Reporter. "But we are trying to tap all the different moods in pop culture."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, October 29, 2009 - 02:52 PM EST
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ABC is reportedly interested in seeing if celebrities can dance on ice.
ABC is currently developing a new Skating with the Celebrities-like reality series with Dancing with the Stars' BBC Worldwide production company, thewrap.com reported Thursday, citing two people familiar with the situation.
The network and production company are discussing the possibility of importing a BBC format for the show, which aired as a 2004 Christmas special and had celebrities training to perform ice-skating routines, according to thewrap.com.
Despite being in development, a deal has yet to be finalized and there's currently no timetable for when it would air, thewrap.com reported.
In addition, ABC and BBC Worldwide would most likely take their time developing the project since casting celebrities willing to try their hand at ice skating is presumably harder than finding stars wanting to ballroom dance, according to the report.
Fox's Skating with Celebrities aired in Winter 2006 and followed B-list celebrity contestants as they skated with professional partners.
The competition was won by actress Kristy Swanson and partner Lloyd Eisler -- who subsequently caused some off-the-ice drama when his then-pregnant wife Marcia O'Brien blamed an affair between the two for breaking up their marriage.
In November 2007, the couple made headlines once again when Swanson was arrested for allegedly assaulting O'Brien. The charges were later dropped.
Swanson and Eisler wed this past February.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, October 16, 2009 - 11:52 AM EST
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Fox Cable Networks has announced that Fox Reality Channel -- which launched in 2005 and is currently available in nearly 50 million homes -- will cease operations on March 31.
"With the changing cable landscape, we've made a strategic decision to shift some resources and refocus on emerging channels," Fox Cable Networks said in a Wednesday media statement.
"However, Fox Reality Channel will remain on on our lineup for at least the next several months."
Fox Reality Channel president David Lyle told broke the news to the network's staff on Wednesday following Tuesday night's filming of the network's annual Really Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, according to reports.
The event will air October 17 on Fox Reality Channel.
According to Lyle, the decision was the end result of a review of the network's branding.
"When you open the door to change, you can never be sure what will come through it," Lyle told thewrap.com.
"We've come to realize that reality isn't really a niche. It's a production method. Not everyone likes every sort of reality program. You can't do a comedy channel and call it 'Three-Camera Comedy.'"
Fox Cable Networks began developing Fox Reality Channel in 2004 and it subsequently launched in May 2005 and primarily aired repeats of old American reality shows -- including Outback Jack, Beauty and Geek, Blind Date and The Amazing Race -- and foreign reality series.
However the network also developed several original programs over the years, including American Idol Extra, Solitary, Househusbands of Hollywood, The Academy, My Bare Lady, The Search for the Next Elvira, Gimme My Reality Show! and Reality Remix. It also teamed with MyNetworkTV and revived Paradise Hotel early last year.
Earlier this year, the network had also announced it was beginning production on Seducing Cindy, a reality dating series starring model Cindy Margolis.
"I'm proud of what we got on air and how we got it on air," Lyle told thewrap.com. "We got on air in like three or four months. And I'm also proud of the financials. We weren't supposed to be in profit until 2013. We got there in 2007."
According to thewrap.com. a complete rebranding of the network -- which would include a new name and different focus as well as the possible addition of an outside partner -- is currently in the works. Several Fox Cable networks already operate with oustide partners, including Big Ten Network and National Geographic Channel.
Since a relaunch could take more time than the March 31 date, Fox Reality Channel could continue with series and specials already in its library until the rebranding is complete, according to thewrap.com. In addition, the relaunch could also occur before March 31.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 11:35 AM EST
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Even President Barack Obama has reportedly found his way onto reality television.
National Geographic Television has secured exclusive access to film the U.S. president's daily life over a four-month period for a docu-reality special that will air on PBS in November 2010, the U.K.'s C21 Media trade publication reported Tuesday.
National Geographic Television is at the Mipcom international media conference in Cannes, France this week looking for production partners for the project, according to C21.
"We started talking to the administration before he was elected in August last year, and we got permission last month," National Geographic Television executive Maryanne Culpepper told C21.
"We did our first shoot last week and I have about five minutes of rushes. It's amazing footage - he goes to New York, then he's having lunch with Bill Clinton, then he's running down the corridor with his dog in the White House. It's fantastic."
The 60-minute docu-reality special -- which is currently titled The White House: Through the Lens -- will continue to film until January and include "all pass" access to the Oval Office, Air Force One, Marine One and the First Lady Michelle Obama, C21 reported.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, October 08, 2009 - 08:57 AM EST
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Mark Burnett is turning Fantasy Island into a reality (series).
The Survivor producer has teamed up with Sony Pictures TV to develop a new reality competition series based on the late 1970s/early 1980s scripted ABC television series, Daily Variety reported Monday.
The new reality series will reportedly follow 12 contestants as they compete to become a real-life version of Mr. Roarke -- the overseer of Fantasy Island who made the dreams of island visitors come true and was originally played by actor Ricardo Montalban.
The contestants will be challenged with making others' dreams come true as guests arrive on a weekly basis, according to Variety, which added the guests will come on the series with "emotion-driven fantasies" ranging from a dream wedding or opportunity to reunite with a lost love.
"Fantasy Island has all of the elements of a hit series," Burnett told Variety. "An exotic location, dream fulfillment, competition and, most of all, emotional storytelling."
Burnett and Sony -- who announced the show on Monday at the Mipcom international television conference in Cannes, France -- are currently in talks with several different resorts located around the world to find a setting for the series, Variety reported.
In addition, selection of a setting with depend on which tie-in deal can ultimately be struck, according to Variety.
The producers will begin shopping the Fantasy Island-based reality series immediately both domestically and internationally, Variety reported.
Burnett and Sony previously collaborated on Shark Tank, an American adaptation of the overseas Dragons' Den reality series that currently airs on ABC.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, October 07, 2009 - 01:03 AM EST
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History has ordered three new reality series that will continue to follow people who take their professions and passions to the extreme.
The network -- formerly known as the History Channel -- has ordered a truck-driving series called Extreme Trucking, a NASCAR-themed reality series dubbed Madhouse, and a series about antique and collectable hunters, The Hollywood Reporter reported Tuesday.
Extreme Trucking will follow big rigs as they navigate hazardous highways around the world and is being produced by Ice Road Truckers and Deadliest Catch creator Thom Beers. The series is currently slated to debut next summer.
"There's an endless supply of dangerous roads, and they're in places where they're highly unregulated," History president Nancy Dubuc told The Reporter.
Madhouse -- which the network previously began developing this summer -- focuses on the rivalry at a North Carolina NASCAR track, where local families race to continue a 61-year feuding tradition, according to The Reporter.
The network ordered 13 episodes of the reality series, which is produced by Triage Entertainment. It is slated to debut early next year.
The tentatively-titled American Pickers will explore the world of antique and collectable hunters who travel the country looking for rare finds.
History ordered 10 episodes of the series, which is produced by Cineflix. It is expected to premiere in January.
"It's a really funny show that follows two friends who have known each other since the eighth grade (as) they look for lost national treasures," Dubuc told The Reporter.
In addition to the three aforementioned reality series, History also ordered Sliced -- a new series from Powderhouse Prods. in which objects are cut in half to reveal their inner workings.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, October 01, 2009 - 11:10 AM EST
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Mark Burnett is adding to his awards show resume.
CBS announced that it has tapped the reality TV uber-producer to serve as the executive producer for the 36th Annual People's Choice Awards, which will air Wednesday, January 6 at 9PM ET/PT.
"I am so excited to be working with the People's Choice Awards," said Burnett.
"The PCA is a terrific franchise but more importantly, an essential voice for the people. I look forward to producing a show that not only celebrates and honors all the favorite movies, music and television of 2009, but creates some of the very first buzz-worthy moments of 2010."
Burnett -- whose reality credentials include Survivor, Shark Tank, The Apprentice, Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?, The Contender, How'd You Get So Rich, StarMaker, Rock Star, Pirate Master, On the Lot, The Restaurant and Amne$ia, among others -- has worked as the executive producer for the MTV Movie Awards for the last three years.
"We are thrilled to introduce our new executive producer, Mark Burnett, known for creating must-see moments that surprise and engage television audiences," said People's Choice president Fred Nelson.
"Burnett's out-of-the-box vision and experience in awards show production make him the perfect choice to reinvigorate the People's Choice Awards."
In addition, CBS announced Queen Latifah will host the People's Choice Awards for the fourth consecutive year.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, September 24, 2009 - 12:28 PM EST
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Simon Cowell reportedly wants to compete against So You Think You Can Dance.
The American Idol judge is interested in creating a dance-themed reality series with friend Ian Burton, a source told Us Weekly in a Wednesday report.
"It's his own So You Think You Can Dance show," the source told Us. "He is always trying to do his own thing to compete with the Idol team. Now he is trying to steal the So You Think You Can Dance thunder."
Cowell is in "secret talks" with Burton to develop the series, the source told Us, adding Burton "used to run a record label with [Cowell] and has managed dancers."
So You Think You Can Dance was co-created by American Idol creator Simon Fuller and Nigel Lythgoe -- who served as an Idol executive producer for the first seven seasons of the Fox mega-hit before announcing last summer that he was stepping down to instead focus on So You Think You Can Dance.
So You Think You Can Dance's sixth season premiered earlier this month, and it is the first edition of the reality series to air outside of Fox's summer broadcast schedule.
Last week, Lythgoe told reporters during a conference call that it was not his decision to air So You Think You Can Dance in the fall -- instead claiming it was Fox's idea.
"It wasn't our decision," Lythgoe told reporters.
"We were asked by Fox if we would swap. I guess their reasoning is they wanted to lead into Glee and they felt both programs were complimentary to each other. I would have thought they would also want to free-up their summer for other experimental shows. We've got a solid core audience -- or believe we have -- and transferring that into the fall would be good enough."
Cowell is apparently all about competition these days. This past summer, it was reported that Cowell was in talks with U.S. networks about launching his The X Factor U.K. reality competition series as a "friendly rival" to American Idol.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 - 02:39 PM EST
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Shannen Doherty reportedly wants to use reality television to show she has a softer side.
The former Beverly Hills 90210 star is currently putting the finishing touches on a deal to appear in Shannen, a new reality series that will highlight her "lighter and funnier" side, E! News reported Friday.
"She's excited about it, because she doesn't want that stigma anymore of being a *****," a source told E! News. "They're still figuring out exactly how it will be done. It may even have some scripted elements."
While Doherty has already met with several networks about the tentatively-titled project -- which she'll also produce -- the 38-year-old actress coyly declined to reveal specifics.
"I'll be back on TV very soon," she told E! News Thursday. "There will be an announcement very soon. I promise you that."
Doherty's previous reality roles include former hosting gigs on Sci Fi's Scare Tactics and Oxygen's Breaking Up with Shannen Doherty.
In addition, she also previously claimed that she received an offer to compete on Dancing with the Stars Summer 2005 first season, but turned it down.
Doherty has since seen fellow former Beverly Hills 90210 co-stars Ian Ziering and Jennie Garth compete on the ABC reality series, the upcoming ninth season of which will include her ex-husband Ashley Hamilton as a celebrity participant.
"He's a great guy," she told E! News. "The women will vote for him for sure because he's gorgeous, so he'll do very well."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, September 21, 2009 - 11:56 AM EST
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Kara DioGuardi is apparently hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow American Idol judges Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson and develop her own reality competition series.
"It's called Dropped ... I'm starting to shop it now," the Idol judge told New York Magazine on Tuesday.
"It takes the best acts that have been dropped and gives them a second chance. You look at Katy Perry, the Jonas Brothers, Alicia Keys, and Lady Gaga, they all have one thing in common: They've all been dropped from their labels."
DioGuardi added that the show's subject matter is something that's personal to her.
"I was dropped," she told New York Magazine. "Think about how many times in your life you haven't achieved one goal, but you've achieved another one."
Since Dropped is still being developed, DioGuardi said she's unsure if she'll host the series if and when it finds a home.
"Oh, my God, now we're getting into particulars," she told New York Magazine. "All right, maybe! I shouldn't have opened my big mouth."
DioGuardi joined Idol's judging panel last summer after she inked a one-year contract. Last month, producers announced that they had resigned her to continue serving as an Idol judge for the show's upcoming ninth season.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, September 17, 2009 - 04:34 AM EST
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As the days grow shorter and temperatures chill, the slate of reality series for the fall heats up with the return of several powerhouse programs and some new shows thrown into the mix.
Not all of this fall's reality shows have formal premiere dates yet but the following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Fall Preview, highlighting all of the currently known shows that will be premiering in coming weeks as well as where and when to tune in.
In addition, some shows that debuted during the late summer -- including Top Chef: Las Vegas, Project Runway's sixth season, America's Best Dance Crew's fourth season and Ghost Hunters' fifth season -- will continue airing new episodes well into the fall.
America's Next Top Model, Cycle 13 (premieres Wednesday, September 9 at 8PM ET/PT on The CW)
Shorties will be walking the runway in the thirteenth season of this reality competition series, as it will feature contestants who are all 5'7" or under -- a complete turnaround from the show's first 12 editions, which required contestants be 5'7" or taller. A series of guest judges ranging from former The Hills star Lauren Conrad to Keeping Up with the Kardashians star Kim Kardashian will also replace Paula Porizkova, who was ousted earlier this year due to budget cuts.
So You Think You Can Dance, Season 6 (premieres Wednesday, September 9 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
After being a summer stalwart for Fox over the last five years, this dance-themed reality competition series takes to the stage this fall in attempt to strengthen the network's primetime programming lineup during a television season in which it will actually have some competition that doesn't include David Hasselhoff.
The Locator, Season 3 (premieres Saturday, September 12 at 9PM ET/PT on WEtv)
Troy Dunn loves to reunite loved ones who have lost touch with one another, and he'll continue to do just that in third season of this reality series. There's no truth to the rumor that upcoming reunions will include Ryan Seacrest and Brian Dunkelman, Flavor Flav and Bridget Nielson, and Susan Hawk and Richard Hatch.
Eddie Griffin: Going for Broke (premieres Monday, September 14 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
Eddie Griffin is one of the hardest working men in comedy -- and this new reality series will show you why, as it will follow the Undercover Brother star and a slew of family members and friends that include eight children, five ex-wives, his mother and 70-year-old uncle (who just so happens to be an amateur porn star).
The Biggest Loser, Season 8 (premieres Tuesday, September 15 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
This weight-loss reality series is back for its eighth installment, which will feature a "second chances" them. Cast members will include the show's biggest contestant ever -- 476 lb. Shauntina "Shay" Sorrells -- and the return of seventh-season contestant Daniel Wright, who is looking to finish what he started. Plus it will be the first edition to feature a single-contestant format since the show's Fall 2007 fourth season, which made Jillian Michaels happy (and you don't want to see her angry).
Launch My Line (premieres Wednesday, September 16 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Nowadays everyone wants to be a fashion designer -- including the 10 professionals featured in this new reality competition series, as they'll be paired with 10 expert designers with the hopes of launching their own clothing line. Another Project Runway replacement attempt, anyone?
Survivor: Samoa, Season 19 (premieres Thursday, September 17 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
Grab your buffs and fire up your torches, as this long-running reality competition series is back for its nineteenth installment -- which CBS is billing as having one of the most villainous castaways ever. Plus there's a twist that will force the tribes to elect leaders before having the opportunity to converse with one another, meaning egos will undoubtedly be inflated.
Extreme Cuisine with Jeff Corwin (premieres Thursday, September 17 at 9PM ET/PT on Food Network)
Jeff Corwin will apparently do anything to avoid slipping from America's consciousness -- and that includes eating just about anything, as this new reality series will follow the wildlife and conservation expert as he samples exotic foods that will make your tummy turn.
Dancing with the Stars, Season 9 (premieres Monday, September 21 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
Similar to The Biggest Loser's upcoming eighth season, this reality competition series' ninth installment will also have a "second chances" theme -- as Donny Osmond looks to restore his family's name after his sister Marie's embarrassing antics during the show's fifth season and Ashley Hamilton hopes to avenge his father's second-season ouster. Plus pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy is getting his seventh chance to win the mirror ball trophy. Good luck bro!
Rescue Ink Unleashed (premieres Friday, September 25 at 10PM ET/PT on National Geographic Channel)
This new reality series will attempt to prove that tough guys have hearts too, as it will follow a group consisting of club bouncers, security guards, police officers and firefighter as they cruise around New York City saving abandoned animals and fighting animal abusers.
The Amazing Race, Season 15 (premieres Sunday, September 27 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
This reality competition series continues to roll along with its fifteenth edition, which will once again follow duos as they travel the globe in an attempt to claim the $1 million prize. Plus host Phil Keoghan was recognized with a nod in the Emmy's reality host category, meaning he could add to the show's already impressive award total.
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Season 7 (premieres Sunday, September 27 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
"Bus driver, move that bus!" for the seventh edition of this inspirational reality series, which will once again follow Ty Pennington and the rest of the design team as they help communities rally around a local family with the goal of making their dream home become a reality. Home renovation projects were never so warm and cuddly.
My Fair Wedding, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, September 27 at 10PM ET/PT on WE tv)
There's a lot of pressure on the bride to ensure her big day isn't a bust. Enter David Tutera -- who knows a thing or two about turning less-than-perfect wedding ceremonies into elaborate events, and the second season of this reality series will continue to follow the bridal expert as he does just that.
The Hills, Season 5 (new episodes begin Tuesday, September 29 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
It's goodbye Lauren Conrad and hello Kristin Cavallari as the fifth season of this reality series continues with all the other regulars returning -- from the delusional "King" Spencer Pratt and his wife Heidi to soon-to-be-former The Hills star Audrina Patridge and the recently tasered Brody Jener. Some claim The Hills is scripted, but seriously, writers couldn't make this stuff up.
King of the Crown (premieres Wednesday, September 30 at 9PM ET/PT on TLC)
Behind every beauty pageant queen there's apparently a middle-aged man meddling with everything from their walk and talk to their hair and dress, and this new reality series will document one of them -- Cy Frakes -- as the veteran pageant expert takes his 20 years of experience and applies it to some new clientele.
Wedded to Perfection (premieres Friday, October 2 at 10PM ET/PT on TLC)
Since TLC is already in the wedding business with such shows as Eat, Drink and be Married and Wild Weddings, this new reality series will fit in perfectly as it follows spouses Jung Lee and Josh Brooks as they operate their Fete Events business, which plans and executes some of the Big Apple's high-end weddings.
Bartender Wars (premieres Friday, October 2 at 10:30PM ET/PT on Fine Living)
Being a bartender is apparently all guts and no glory, something this new reality series intends to fix by having three New York City bartenders compete against each other in each episode -- testing various skills required in their job, from speed at pouring shots to how quick they can concoct a drink with randomly picked ingredients. Bottoms up!
Superfetch (premieres Saturday, October 3 at 8PM ET/PT on Animal Planet)
If you're pet is having problems retrieving your slippers or helping you find a date during a walk in the park, look no further than trainer Zak George -- who in this new reality series will put his theory to the test that he can teach anyone how to teach any pet to perform any trick. Sounds simple, as long as you're stocked up on dog biscuits and catnip.
The Next Iron Chef, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, October 4 at 9PM ET/PT on Food Network)
It's apparently time to crown another Iron Chef, as this new reality competition series will pit 10 culinary contestants against one another to see who can create dishes that represent a variety of world cultures and cuisines. With a shot at competing in Kitchen Stadium on the line, the contestants will undoubtedly want to bring their entire pantry of skills to the table.
Parking Wars, Season 3 (premieres Tuesday, October 6 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
Writing citations and booting vehicles never seemed so interesting -- as this reality series that makes you look at parking enforcement officers in a new way is back for a third season, which will continue to follow Philadelphia Parking Authority employees and will also document those working for the Detroit's Municipal Parking Department.
Ghost Lab (premieres Tuesday, October 6 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel)
Brad and Barry Klinge are brothers with a passion for the paranormal, and this new Ghost Hunters-like reality series will follow the Texas natives as they investigate supernatural activity with their tricked-out 24-foot car hauler that is capable of explaining those hard-to-reach hauntings.
The Girls Next Door, Season 6 (premieres Sunday, October 11 at 10PM ET/PT on E!)
Hugh Hefner has some new bunnies living in his mansion, as the sixth installment of this reality series will follow the Playboy founder as he bids farewell to former girlfriends Holly Madison, Bridget Marquardt and Kendra Wilson and says hello to 19-year-old identical twins Karissa and Kristina Shannon and 23-year-old Crystal Harris.
Leave it to Lamas (premieres Sunday, October 11 at 10:30PM ET/PT on E!)
The Lamas family is using this new reality series to heal old wounds and become closer-knit kin, as it will follow The Bachelor: London Calling winner Shayne Lamas and the rest of her family -- including her laser-pointer wielding father Lorenzo -- as they live their Hollywood lifestyles. Plus it's produced by The Bachelor creator Mike Fleiss, so you know it's going to be good... right? Right?!?
Million Dollar Listing, Season 3 (premieres Monday, October 12 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
The economic climate may be stormy, but things are apparently still sunny for Los Angeles realtors Josh Flagg, Madison Hildebrand and Chad Rogers -- as this reality series will continue to follow them over the course of nine months as they attempt to sell multi-million dollar properties in the exclusive neighborhoods of Hollywood, Malibu and Beverly Hills.
Gone Too Far (premieres Monday, October 12 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
The status of this Intervention-like reality series seemed in jeopardy when its star Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein died in August due to an accidental drug overdose, however MTV and his family members are apparently hoping that the celebrity DJ's demise will help inspire others to kick their substance abuse problems before it's too late.
Little People, Big World, Season 5 (premieres Monday, October 16 at 8PM ET/PT on TLC)
Jon and Kate Gosselin could learn a few things from TLC's other popular reality family, as the fifth season of this series will continue to document the Roloffs as they deal with changes to their family dynamics -- with the kids growing older and Matt and Amy finding themselves with more time on their hands.
Storm Chasers, Season 3 (premieres Sunday, October 18 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel)
If trying to film inside a tornado sounds like dangerous business, that's because it is -- and the third season of this reality series will continue to follow teams of researchers and meteorologists as they go after some of the most terrifying twisters for the opportunity to gather never-recorded scientific data and video footage.
Living with Ed, Season 3 (premieres Wednesday, October 21 on Planet Green)
The second season of this reality series will continue to follow eco-friendly actor Ed Begley, Jr. and his wife Rachelle as they attempt to navigate one of the most polluted places on the planet -- Los Angeles. Begley and the Mrs. will also take a trip to Las Vegas -- which also isn't the cleanest city.
The Academy: Orange County Fires (premieres Saturday, October 24 on Fox Reality Channel)
While the first and second seasons of this reality series followed police officers in training, the upcoming third installment will instead focus on 29 recruits as they endure 18 weeks of training to become Orange County Fire Authority members. Since it's wild and structural fires these cadets will be battling, it's safe to assume the training gets pretty hot.
Monica (premieres Tuesday, October 27 at 10PM ET/PT on BET)
Monica Denise Arnold is apparently more than just a Grammy-award winning R&B artist and actress, as this new reality series will follow her as she raises her two young sons while still dealing with the suicide of her boyfriend Jarvis "Knot" Weems. However she'll also continue to work on her career, which includes recording her fifth studio album.
Sex Rehab with Dr. Drew (premieres Sunday, November 1 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
David Drew "Dr. Drew" Pinsky has done such a good job helping celebrities overcome alcohol and drug addictions that he apparently feels it's time to turn his attention to sex-craved stars in need of some guidance. Enter this Celebrity Rehab spinoff, the cast of which consists of three former Playboy playmates and three people from the porn industry. Maybe all they need is a career change?
Tabatha's Salon Takeover, Season 2 (premieres Tuesday, November 3 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Tabatha Coffey will continue to do her best Gordon Ramsay impression in the second season of this reality series, which will once again follow the former Shear Genius first-season finalist as she attempts to improve hair salons across America.
Flowers Uncut with Jeff Leatham (premieres Wednesday, November 4 at 10PM ET/PT on TLC)
This new reality series will follow the artistic director and floral designer as he works in New York's event scene -- arranging floral bouquets and pinning boutonnieres on groomsman. Sounds exciting.
The Real Housewives of Orange County, Season 5 (premieres Thursday, November 5 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
The fifth season of this reality series will be Jeana Keough's swan song, however that won't stop the rest of the ladies -- as they welcome newcomer Alexis Bellino and continue to deal with real-life problems including financial concerns, the death of a loved one, and spontaneous trips to Italy (Okay, maybe that last one isn't relatable to viewers, but you get the idea).
Chef Academy (premieres Monday, November 16 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
This new docu-reality series will chronicle French chef Jean-Christophe Novelli's attempt to launch a culinary institute in Los Angeles -- highlighting the tutelage of nine students hoping to learn from the Michelin and 5AA Rosette award-winning chef.
Launch My Line (premieres Wednesday, December 2 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Everybody wants to be a fashion designer these days -- even established professionals in different fields. This new reality series will give them an opportunity to see if they have what it takes, as it will pair them with expert fashion designers for the chance to have their own clothing line.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, September 03, 2009 - 03:21 PM EST
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The L Word is becoming a reality series.
Showtime has ordered The Real L Word: Los Angeles, a new reality series that will follow six lesbians living in L.A. as they go about their daily lives, Daily Variety reported Monday.
The new reality series is based on the network's scripted The L Word drama, which followed a group of gay and lesbian women as they lived in West Hollywood. The series premiered in 2004 and aired six seasons before ending this past March.
Showtime has ordered nine episodes of The Real L Word, according to Variety, which added the project is dependent on casting.
The reality series will be produced by The L Word creator Ilene Chaiken.
"Even though we concluded our sixth season of The L Word on Showtime this past March, I believe we are not nearly finished telling our L Word stories," Chaiken told Variety. "Showtime has yet again come forward to continue with us this mission to entertain and enlighten and bring more 'L' to the world."
In addition to Chaiken, The Real L Word will be executive produced by Magical Elves' Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz -- who previously produced Project Runway before it moved from Bravo to Lifetime.
"We love to tell authentic stories about complex characters and feel like this is an area that has yet to be explored in reality television," Lipsitz told Variety.
The Real L Word is currently slated to debut sometime next year.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, September 02, 2009 - 09:22 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, August 31, 2009 - 03:11 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, August 13, 2009 - 03:11 PM EST
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Discovery Channel has announced that it is in the process of developing several new projects with Dirty Jobs host Mike Rowe.
Included in the projects is a new reality series that will follow Rowe as he travels the globe and offers profiles on courageous men and women whose work has impacted their local communities and the rest of the world. The series is currently slated to air sometime next year.
Discovery Channel is also "actively developing" other yet-to-be-revealed projects with Rowe, in which he will host and serve as an executive producer, according to the network.
In addition, Discovery Channel also announced that 11 new Dirty Jobs fifth-season episodes will premiere this October.
Some of the unpopular and unpleasant professions Rowe will undertake in the new episodes include hydrodam mechanics, cedar log peeling, mattress recycling and fireworks manufacturing, among others.
Dirty Jobs fifth season premiered in January and included the reality series' 200th job special, which was broadcast in February and included Rowe reflecting back on some of his experiences during past jobs, examining Dirty Jobs' evolution, talking about the toughest co-workers he's dealt with, and revisiting the show's most memorable and unexpected moments.
In addition, the series was recently nominated for its second consecutive Emmy for Outstanding Reality Program.
Discovery Channel will air a Dirty Jobs Labor Day marathon on Monday, September 7 beginning at 9AM ET/PT.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, July 31, 2009 - 03:02 PM EST
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Kevin Federline apparently isn't wasting any time in re-launching his career as a reality star.
A week after it was first reported that K-Fed was developing a new reality series, the former Britney & Kevin: Chaotic co-star was spotted at Las Vegas' Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Thursday to film scenes for a pilot, a source told People.
In addition to shooting scenes at the Hard Rock beach pool, Federline and his girlfriend Victoria Prince were also filmed partying with a group of 15 friends at the club Wasted Space "where they sipped on Grey Goose cocktails until about 3AM," according to People.
The reality series -- which People reported has yet to be officially ordered by a network -- will follow Federline's life with Prince and his two sons with ex-wife Britney Spears.
"He has been through a lot over the years, but handled himself very well. He's learned how to balance being a super single dad and the chaotic life of business, fame and fortune," a source told People. "He strives to be a good father."
Federline's rep had no comment when contacted by People.
Federline and Spears previously starred in the short-lived Britney & Kevin: Chaotic reality series, which aired five episodes on the now-defunct UPN in Summer 2005.
While he subsequently planned a return to reality television early last year, he was forced to put those plans "on hold because of the Britney situation" -- a reference to Spears' infamous behavior that included a 24-hour mental and physical checkup at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and a stint in UCLA Medical Center's psych ward.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, July 31, 2009 - 01:35 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, July 27, 2009 - 01:21 PM EST
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Kevin Federline is reportedly planning his return to reality television now that his ex-wife's life isn't so chaotic.
The former Britney & Kevin: Chaotic co-star is developing a new reality series following his life with girlfriend Victoria Prince and his two sons with ex-wife Britney Spears, E! News reported Monday.
"Victoria is a big part of the series," a source told E! News. "They are not engaged, but she lives with him full-time in his place in Encino."
Somewhat surprisingly, Spears apparently has no problem with sons Sean Preston and Jayden James appearing in the new series with Federline and Prince.
"Victoria and Britney first met before Britney's tour at Kevin's home," the source told E! News. "They had a meeting face-to-face, when Victoria was home alone with the kids. It was awkward, but Britney was nice."
Prince -- a former AVP volleyball player -- is currently helping K-Fed when he has custody of the two children and is also taking online graduate classes in communication.
"Victoria actually quit her entry-level job at Fox Sports in L.A. after meeting Kevin," the source told E! News. "She's considering returning to volleyball, but isn't sure."
Federline's rep did not return E! News' request for comment, and a VH1 representative would not confirm it was working with Federline and Prince on the project.
Federline and Spears previously starred in the short-lived Britney & Kevin: Chaotic reality series, which aired five episodes on the now-defunct UPN in Summer 2005.
While he subsequently planned a return to reality television early last year, he was forced to put those plans on hold "because of the Britney situation" -- a reference to Spears' infamous behavior that included a 24-hour mental and physical checkup at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and a stint in UCLA Medical Center's psych ward.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 - 12:22 PM EST
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The following is a complete list of reality TV nominations for the 61st Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, to be presented on September 12 and 20.
Nominations were received in 23 different categories:
1. Outstanding Art Direction For A Multi-Camera Series
- Hell's Kitchen - Episode #515 - Fox - A. Smith & Co in association with Granada America
John Robert Janavs, Production Designer
Robert Frye, Art Director
Stephen Paul Fackrell, Set Decorator
2. Outstanding Art Direction For Variety, Music Or Nonfiction Programming
- American Idol - Episode 821 - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Andy Walmsley, Production Designer
James Yarnell, Art Director
3. Outstanding Choreography
- Dancing With The Stars - Jive/"Great Balls of Fire" - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Derek Hough, Choreographer
Julianne Hough, Choreographer
- So You Think You Can Dance - "Bleeding Love" - Fox - Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Tabitha D'umo, Choreographer
Napoleon D'umo, Choreographer
- So You Think You Can Dance - "Mercy" - Fox - Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Mia Michaels, Choreographer
- So You Think You Can Dance - Adam and Eve/"Silence" - Fox - Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Tyce Diorio, Choreographer
- So You Think You Can Dance - "A Los Amigos" - Fox - Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Dmitry Chaplin, Choreographer
4. Outstanding Cinematography For Nonfiction Programming
- Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations - "Laos" - Travel Channel - Zero Point Zero Production, Inc.
Todd Liebler, Camera
Zach Zamboni, Camera
- Deadliest Catch - "Stay Focused Or Die" - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, LLC in association with Discovery Channel
Cinematography Team
- Expedition Africa - Episode 101 - History Channel - Mark Burnett Productions for History
Cinematography Team
- Whale Wars - "Nothing's Ideal" - Animal Planet - RIVR Media in association with Animal Planet
Robert C. Case, Director of Photography
5. Outstanding Cinematography For Reality Programming
- The Amazing Race - "Don't Let A Cheese Hit Me" - CBS - World Race Productions Inc.
Per Larsson, Director of Photography
Sylvestre Campe, Camera
Petr Cikhart, Camera
Tom Cunningham, Camera
Peter Riveschl, Camera
- Intervention - "Chad" - A&E - Produced by GRB Entertainment for A&E Network
Bryan Donnell, Director of Photography
- Out Of The Wild: The Alaska Experiment - "What Did I Sign Up For?" - Discovery Channel - Pilgrim Films and Television, Inc.
Derek Carver, Director of Photography
Michael Applebaum, Camera Operator
John Armstrong, Camera Operator
Marc Bennett, Camera Operator
Eric Freeburg, Camera Operator
- Survivor - "The Camp Is Cursed" - CBS - SEG
Cinematography Team
- Top Chef - "The Last Supper" - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Tim Spellman, Director of Photography
6. Outstanding Directing For A Variety, Music Or Comedy Series
- American Idol - Episode 833 (The Final Three) - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Bruce Gowers, Director
7. Outstanding Directing For Nonfiction Programming
- The Amazing Race - "Don't Let A Cheese Hit Me" - CBS - World Race Productions Inc.
Bertram van Munster, Director
- Project Runway - "Finale (Part 1)" - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company,
Full Picture, Bravo
Paul Starkman, Director
- Top Chef - "The Last Supper" - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Steve Hrynewicz, Director
8. Outstanding Short Form Picture Editing
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 710A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
David Timoner, Editor
9. Outstanding Picture Editing For Nonfiction Programming
- Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations - "Laos" - Travel Channel - Zero Point Zero Production, Inc.
Jesse Fisher, Editor
- Deadliest Catch - "Stay Focused Or Die" - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, LLC in association with Discovery Channel
Kelly Coskran, Supervising Editor
Josh Earl, Editor
10. Outstanding Picture Editing For Reality Programming
- The Amazing Race - "Don't Let A Cheese Hit Me" - CBS - World Race Productions Inc.
Eric Goldfarb, Editor
Julian Gomez, Editor
Andrew Kozar, Editor
Paul Nielsen, Editor
Michael Bolanowski, Editor
Jennifer Nelson, Editor
Jacob Parsons, Editor
- The Celebrity Apprentice - "Grave Reservations" - NBC - Mark Burnett Productions
Chris Simpson, Supervising Editor
Jeff Runyan, Editor
Jason Pedroza, Editor
Matt Blair, Editor
Jason Steinberg, Editor
- Extreme Makeover: Home Edition - "The Martirez Family" - ABC - Endemol USA
Wes Paster, Supervising Editor
Matt Deitrich, Supervising Editor
Steve Mellon, Supervising Editor
Arek Hope, Editor
Karin Hoving, Editor
Hilary Scratch, Editor
Phil Stuben, Editor
- Project Runway - "Finale (Part 1)" - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Jamie Pedroza, Edited By
Mary DeChambres, Edited By
Spiro C. Lampros, Edited By
Richie Edelson, Edited By
Maris Berzins, Edited By
Matthew Moul, Edited By
Steve Lichtenstein, Edited By
- Top Chef - "The Last Supper" - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Annie Tighe, Edited By
Alan Hoang, Edited By
Adrienne Salisbury, Edited By
Kevin Leffler, Edited By
Katherine Griffin, Edited By
Sue Hoover, Edited By
LaRonda Morris, Edited By
11. Outstanding Hairstyling For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 709 - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Mary Guerrero, Department Head Hairstylist
Cynthia Romo, Key Hairstylist
Jennifer Mazursky, Additional Hairstylist
Maria Valdivia, Additional Hairstylist
12. Outstanding Lighting Direction (Electronic, Multi-Camera) For Variety, Music Or Comedy Programming
- American Idol - "Finale" - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Kieran Healy, Lighting Designer
Joshua Hutchings, Lighting Director
George Harvey, Lighting Director
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 702A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Simon Miles, Lighting Designer
13. Outstanding Makeup For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special (Non-Prosthetic)
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 804 - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Melanie Mills, Department Head Makeup Artist
Zena Shtetsel, Key Makeup Artist
Patti Ramsey-Bortoli, Additional Makeup Artist
Angela Moos, Additional Makeup Artist
- So You Think You Can Dance - Episode #421/422A - Fox - Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Amy Elizabeth Strozzi, Department Head Makeup Artist
Heather Cummings, Key Makeup Artist
Tifanie White, Additional Makeup Artist
Marie DelPrete, Additional Makeup Artist
14. Outstanding Music Direction
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 710A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Harold Wheeler, Music Director
15. Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music
- The Mole - ABC - Stone Stanley Entertainment
David Michael Frank, Original Music Composed By
16. Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality-Competition Program
- The Amazing Race - CBS - World Race Productions Inc.
Phil Keoghan, Host
- American Idol - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Ryan Seacrest, Host
- Dancing With The Stars - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Tom Bergeron, Host
- Project Runway - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Heidi Klum, Host
- Survivor - CBS - SEG
Jeff Probst, Host
- Top Chef - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Padma Lakshmi, Host
Tom Colicchio, Co-Host
17. Outstanding Nonfiction Series
- Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations - Travel Channel - Zero Point Zero Production, Inc.
Myleeta Aga, Executive Producer
Christopher Collins, Executive Producer
Lydia Tenaglia, Executive Producer
Paul Cabana, Producer
- Deadliest Catch - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, LLC in association with Discovery Channel
Thom Beers, Executive Producer
Jeff Conroy, Executive Producer
Paul Gasek, Executive Producer
Tracy Rudolph, Executive Producer
Matt Renner, Co-Executive Producer
Ethan Prochnik, Supervising Producer
18. Outstanding Reality Program
- Antiques Roadshow - PBS - WGBH Educational Foundation
Marsha Bemko, Executive Producer
Sam Farrell, Supervising Producer
- Dirty Jobs - Discovery Channel - Pilgrim Films and Television, Inc. in association with Discovery Channel
Craig Piligian, Executive Producer
Eddie Barbini, Executive Producer
Mike Rowe, Executive Producer
Eddie Rohwedder, Supervising Producer
Scott Popjes, Supervising Producer
Dave Barsky, Producer
John Scott III, Producer
Gena McCarthy, Executive Producer
- Dog Whisperer - NGC - MPH Entertainment in association with Emery/Sumner Productions
Jim Milio, Executive Producer
Melissa Jo Peltier, Executive Producer
Mark Hufnail, Executive Producer
SueAnn Fincke, Series Producer
Sheila Possner Emery, Producer
Kay Bachman Sumner, Producer
- Intervention - A&E - Produced by GRB Entertainment for A&E Network
Gary Benz, Executive Producer
Michael Branton, Executive Producer
Sam Mettler, Executive Producer
Dan Partland, Executive Producer
Robert Sharenow, Executive Producer
Colleen Conway, Executive Producer
Jeff Grogan, Supervising Producer
Trisha Kirk Redding, Producer
Sarah Skibitzke, Producer
Kurt Schemper, Produced By
- Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List - Bravo - Picture This Television, Bravo
Marcia Mule, Executive Producer
Bryan Scott, Executive Producer
Lisa M. Tucker, Executive Producer
Kathy Griffin, Executive Producer
Cori Abraham, Executive Producer
Andrew Cohen, Executive Producer
Jenn Levy, Executive Producer
Amy Kohn, Co-Executive Producer
- MythBusters - Discovery Channel - Beyond Productions in association with Discovery Channel
Mary Donahue, Senior Executive Producer
John Luscombe, Executive Producer
Dan Tapster, Executive Producer
Rob Hammersley, Co-Executive Producer
Tracy Rudolph, Supervising Producer
Alice Dallow, Producer
Tabitha Lentle, Producer
19. Outstanding Reality-Competition Program
- The Amazing Race - CBS - World Race Productions Inc.
Bertram van Munster, Executive Producer
Jerry Bruckheimer, Executive Producer
Jonathan Littman, Executive Producer
Hayma "Screech" Washington, Executive Producer
Elise Doganieri, Co-Executive Producer
Amy Nabseth Chacon, Co-Executive Producer
Mark Vertullo, Co-Executive Producer
Matt Schmidt, Supervising Producer
Jarratt Carson, Supervising Producer
Evan Weinstein, Supervising Producer
Giselle Parets, Senior Producer
Michael Norton, Senior Producer
Patrick Cariaga, Senior Producer
Phil Keoghan, Producer
- American Idol - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Ken Warwick, Executive Producer
Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Executive Producer
Simon Fuller, Executive Producer
Charles Boyd, Co-Executive Producer
Patrick M. Lynn, Supervising Producer
Megan Michaels, Supervising Producer
- Dancing With The Stars - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Conrad Green, Executive Producer
Rob Wade, Co-Executive Producer
Matilda Zoltowski, Co-Executive Producer
Joe Sungkur, Supervising Producer
Ashley Edens-Shaffer, Supervising Producer
Kim Kilbey, Senior Producer
Erin O'Brien, Producer
- Project Runway - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Harvey Weinstein, Executive Producer
Bob Weinstein, Executive Producer
Dan Cutforth, Executive Producer
Rich Bye, Executive Producer
Jane Lipsitz, Executive Producer
Jane Cha, Executive Producer
Desiree Gruber, Executive Producer
Heidi Klum, Executive Producer
Frances Berwick, Executive Producer
Andrew Cohen, Executive Producer
Shari Levine, Executive Producer
Casey Kriley, Co-Executive Producer
Rich Buhrman, Co-Executive Producer
Michael Rucker, Co-Executive Producer
Andrew Wallace, Co-Executive Producer
Barbara Schneeweiss, Producer
- Top Chef - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Dan Cutforth, Executive Producer
Jane Lipsitz, Executive Producer
Shauna Minoprio, Executive Producer
Andrew Cohen, Executive Producer
Frances G. Berwick, Executive Producer
Dave Serwatka, Executive Producer
Rich Buhrman, Co-Executive Producer
Liz Cook, Co-Executive Producer
Fred Pichel, Co-Executive Producer
Casey Kriley, Co-Executive Producer
Gaylen Gawlowski, Co-Executive Producer
Nan Strait, Supervising Producer
Kevin Leffler, Supervising Producer
20. Outstanding Sound Editing For Nonfiction Programming (Single Or Multi-Camera)
- The Amazing Race - "Don't Let A Cheese Hit Me" - CBS - World Race Productions Inc.
Eric Goldfarb, Sound Editor
Julian Gomez, Sound Editor
Andrew Kozar, Sound Editor
Paul Nielsen, Sound Editor
Jacob Parsons, Sound Editor
Rick Livingstone, Music Editor
21. Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Variety Or Music Series Or Special
- American Idol - "Finale" - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Ed Greene, Production Mixer
Randy Faustino, Music Mixer
Andrew Fletcher, PA Mixer
Mike Parker, Monitor Mixer
Gary Long, Playback Music Mixer
Brian Riordan, Pre-Production Packages Mixer
Adrian Ordonez, Pre-Production Packages Mixer
Christian Schrader, Audience Sweetener
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 710A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Evan Adelman, Audio Mixer
Eric Johnston, Playback Mixer
John Protzko, House PA Mixer
Butch McKarge, Monitor Mixer
Boyd Wheeler, Audience Sweetener
22. Outstanding Sound Mixing For Nonfiction Programming
- The Amazing Race - "Don't Let A Cheese Hit Me - CBS - World Race Productions Inc.
Jim Ursulak, Lead Audio
Jerry Chabane, Audio
Dean Gaveau, C.A.S., Audio
Troy Smith, Re-Recording Mixer
- American Idol - Episode 801/02 - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Brian Riordan, Re-Recording Mixer
Adrian Ordonez, Re-Recording Mixer
- Deadliest Catch - "Stay Focused Or Die" - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, LLC in association with Discovery Channel
Bob Bronow, Re-Recording Mixer
- Survivor - "The Poison Apple Needs To Go" - CBS - SEG
Robert Mackay, Audio Supervisor
Terry Meehan, Audio Mixer
Christopher Kelly, Audio Mixer
Terrance Dwyer, Re-Recording Mixer
23. Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control For A Series
- American Idol - Episode 834A - Fox - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Shiran Stotland, Technical Director
Rick Edwards, Technical Director
Bill Chaikowski, Camera
Greg Smith, Camera
John Repczynski, Camera
George Prince, Camera
Danny Bonilla, Camera
Alex Hernandez, Camera
Dave Eastwood, Camera
Bobby Highton, Camera
Ken Patterson, Camera
Ken Dahlquist, Camera
Diane Biederbeck, Camera
Danny Webb, Camera
Dave Plakos, Camera
Steve Thiel, Camera
Mike Tribble, Camera
Chris Gray, Video Control
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 802A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions
Charles Ciup, Technical Director
Brian Reason, Camera Operator
Hector Ramirez, Camera Operator
Larry Heider, Camera Operator
Dave Levisohn, Camera Operator
Bert Atkinson, Camera Operator
Bettina Levesque, Camera Operator
Mike Malone, Camera Operator
Adam Margolis, Camera Operator
Damien Tuffereau, Camera Operator
Easter Xua, Camera Operator
Chuck Reilly, Senior Video Control
Mike Snedden, Video Control
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 16, 2009 - 10:20 AM EST
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ABC is reportedly attempting to see how quick comedians are when pulling the trigger with their jokes.
The network has ordered The Fast & the Funniest, a new reality series from former Last Comic Standing producers Page Hurwitz and Javier Winnik, The Hollywood Reporter reported Wednesday.
The series' order is cast-contingent, according to The Reporter.
The Fast & the Funniest will follow a group of stand-up comedians as they travel across the country and compete in various challenges and performances to see who is the funniest on the fly, according to The Reporter, which added the first three comedians to reach the road trip's final stop would then perform for a cash prize.
The reality series would fill the void left by Last Comic Standing, which premiered on NBC in Summer 2003 and subsequently aired seven seasons before being canceled last year.
The Fast & the Funniest is currently slated to debut late midseason or early next summer if a cast can be assembled, according to The Reporter.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 02, 2009 - 12:19 PM EST
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VH1 announced it has ordered three new romance-themed reality series starring former Salt 'n' Pepa member Sandra "Pepa" Denton, former TLC member Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas, and former I Love New York and I Love Money participant Frank "The Entertainer" Moresco.
"No matter if you're a Grammy Award winning artist, a film actor or a TV reality star with millions of loyal fans, we all share the same desires of the human experience -- to succeed, to love, and to live our lives to their fullest potential," said VH1 programming executive Jeff Olde.
"VH1 has generated a lot of buzz over the years by evolving from an outlet that commented on pop culture to a brand that creates it. With these projects, we're continuing to evolve, building on our core storytelling expertise to delve deeper into personalities and issues that connect with millions of our viewers."
The untitled project starring Pepa will follow half of the former rap duo as she begins to search for a romantic relationship after years of living a celibate life. Pepa will be on the prowl with her three closest girlfriends, all of whom are also single and searching for love.
VH1 has ordered eight half-hour episodes of the untitled project, which is slated to premiere next year. The series is executive produced by Banks Tarver and Ken Druckerman for Left/Right, Inc..
Pepa is no stranger to VH1 reality shows, as she previously appeared as a The Surreal Life fifth-season houseguest in 2005 and also competed on The Surreal Life: Fame Games in 2007.
In addition, she also starred alongside Cheryl "Salt" James on VH1's The Salt-N-Pepa Show, which premiered in October 2007 and subsequently aired a second season early last year.
The untitled project starring Chilli will follow the former R&B star as she decides to take control of her romantic life with the help of Brooklyn relationship expert Tionna Smalls. Throughout the series, Chilli will learn ways to overcome emotional hurdles and find the long-term romantic relationship she wants.
VH1 has ordered eight half-hour episodes of the untitled project, which is slated to premiere next year. The series is executive produced by FremantleMedia North America.
Chilli previously appeared on R U The Girl with T-Boz & Chilli, which aired on the now-defunct UPN in Summer 2005 and followed Chilli and Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins as they searched for a new member of their trio following the death of Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, who died in a 2002 car accident.
The competition was subsequently won by Tiffany "O'so Krispie" Baker, who recorded one single with Chilli and T-Boz.
The Entertainer will follow Moresco, a 32-year-old from Congers, NY, as he whittles down "a bevy of naive hopefuls" for the opportunity to find love and -- more importantly -- finally move-out of his parents' basement.
VH1 has ordered 10 one-hour episodes of The Entertainer, which is slated to premiere next year. The series is executive produced by Cris Abrego, Mark Cronin and Ben Samek for 51 Minds.
Moresco first appeared as a suitor on I Love New York's Fall 2007 second season and is mostly remembered for his toe-sucking fetish and being rejected by Tiffany "New York" Pollard because he was a "loser" who still lived with his parents.
He subsequently competed on I Love Money's first and second seasons, however he failed to win either.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 - 09:43 AM EST
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Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew could apparently have some competition from Ryan Seacrest for Lindsay Lohan's services.
Both the American Idol host and oft-troubled actress revealed in separate Twitter postings that they met on Thursday night to discuss the possibility of collaborating on a new reality series.
"Met with lindsay last night about a show idea I have for her..it helps people and gives others a second shot! Still putting it all together," wrote Seacrest in a Friday post on Twitter.
"Working on a really great project for television- I am excited! Something meaningful like Extreme Home Makeover on ABC.. :)," Lohan wrote in her own Twitter post on Friday.
Seacrest would produce the project, sources told TMZ.com in a Saturday report. The show would follow a group of people "who are on the wrong track and are looking for a second chance."
A panel of judges -- including Lohan -- would ultimately decide who receives a $1 million prize, according to TMZ.
Last month, sources close to Lohan told ABC News that David Drew "Dr. Drew" Pinsky and Celebrity Rehab's producers were allegedly offering the actress "upwards of six figures" by to appear as a participant in an upcoming installment of the VH1 reality series.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, June 22, 2009 - 01:27 AM EST
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VH1 is apparently obsessed with rehab-themed reality shows.
The network has ordered a new reality series that will feature ordinary people suffering from severe forms of obsessive compulsive disorder, Daily Variety reported Sunday.
Tentatively-titled The OCD Project, the new series will follow a group of participants suffering from OCD as they live together for several weeks in a treatment facility and undergo both individual and group treatment.
"I feel our viewers will also see something of themselves in these patients as I think everyone has a little bit of OCD, making it surprisingly relatable," VH1 programming executive Jeff Olde told Variety.
"We want to open people's eyes and hearts to a very real side of this disorder that can often ruin careers and relationships. ... Our goal is to bring some real understanding to this disease."
VH1 is already home to rehab-themed shows Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, the third season of which is slated to premiere early next year, and Sex Rehab with Dr. Drew, a Celebrity Rehab spin-off that began filming in April.
In addition, The OCD Project is similar to A&E Network's Obsessed -- a new Intervention-like reality series that follows individuals suffering from extreme anxiety disorders and premiered earlier this month.
The OCD Project is being produced by 3 Ball Productions, with JD Roth serving as executive producer.
"3 Ball's brand has always been about transformation," Roth told Variety. "The OCD Project will be another example where regular, everyday people afflicted with severe symptoms take their lives back from an out-of-control situation and inspire viewers to do the same."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, June 15, 2009 - 06:23 PM EST
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Fox is giving women who are eager to wed the opportunity to do so with a complete stranger.
The network is developing I Married a Stranger, a new reality series that will follow women who don't meet their husbands until they're at the altar, The Hollywood Reporter reported Thursday.
Each episode of I Married a Stranger will follow a different woman who has abandoned the dating scene and is willing to marry a man she's never met, according to The Reporter.
The bride-to-be's potential partner will be selected by friends and family members -- who will choose a spouse from a group of six bachelors picked by producers.
The men are ousted until only two suitors remain, and both will be sent down the aisle before the bride ultimately decides which one she wants to try and spend the rest of her life with.
"She never meets him until the actual moment when they say 'I do,'" a source close to the project told The Reporter. "It's like the big scene that comes after an entire season of The Bachelor, only this is in every episode."
Each episode will conclude with footage from the newlywed's honeymoon and a brief segment filmed a couple of months later updating viewers on the relationship.
I Married a Stranger is produced by A. Smith & Co., with Arthur Smith, Kent Weed and Scott Jeffress serving as executive producers.
Fox has already filmed a pilot, according to The Reporter, which added the series is "in strong contention" for a series order. While the pilot featured a woman's family selecting a male, The Reporter added that the show might eventually alternate genders.
I Married a Stranger follows a similar format to Arranged Marriage, which CBS began developing in February and officially ordered in May.
Unlike I Married a Stranger -- which will follow a different woman in each episode -- Arranged Marriage will follow three adults over the course of the season.
In addition, friends and family members will also select their loved one's spouse in Arranged Marriage -- while in I Married a Stranger friends and family members play an active role, but the bride-to-be is the one who gets the final say.
Arranged Marriage is being produced by former Project Runway producers Jane Lipsitz, Dan Cutforth and their Magical Elves production company.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, June 08, 2009 - 07:14 AM EST
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Discovery Channel announced it has ordered MG: Motor City, a revival of the network's Monster Garage reality series that will be set in Detroit, MI.
MG: Motor City will follow a similar format to the original Monster Garage, as a team of motorcycle designers and builders are given seven days and $3,000 to turn average vehicles into "outrageous contraptions of fantasy and function," according to the network.
The revival's premiere -- which is currently slated to air this fall -- will follow the team as they transform a Model T into a street-legal drag racer, also known as a "Gasser."
"Showcasing creativity, determination and ingenuity under pressure is what Discovery does best and this series is no exception," said Discovery Channel president John Ford. "Taking the show to the birthplace of the automotive industry makes perfect sense and we can't wait to see what amazing dream machines the team constructs."
Thom Beers of Original Productions developed and produced the original Monster Garage, and he's also behind the wheel for the show's upcoming revival.
"It's a terrific opportunity for our series to hire local workers and showcase the talented people of Detroit who have made the Motor City a nationwide automotive legend," said Beers.
Monster Garage premiered in 2002 on Discovery Channel and aired five seasons before broadcasting its finale in June 2006. It starred Jesse James, who transformed a variety of vehicles at his West Coast Choppers shop in Long Beach, CA.
In October 2007, James signed a two-year talent and production deal with Spike TV. Last month the network premiered Jesse James is a Dead Man, a new reality series that follows the motorcycle-loving outlaw as he takes on different death-defying challenges.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, June 01, 2009 - 11:29 AM EST
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Temperatures aren't the only thing rising this summer, as the new season also means the dawn of several new reality series and the return of some old favorites that have been on vacation.
Not all of this summer's reality shows have formal premiere dates yet, but the following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Summer Preview, highlighting all of the currently known shows that will be premiering in coming months as well as where and when to tune in.
The Bachelorette, Season 5 (premieres Monday, May 18 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
Jillian Harris wasn't ABC's first choice to star in The Bachelorette's upcoming summer installment -- nor was she the second -- however the network will have to settle for the quirky Canadian, who was rejected by The Bachelor star Jason Mesnick earlier this year. Since Harris hails from north of the border, expect lots of winter-themed dates and people saying "aboot."
4th & Long (premieres Monday, May 18 at 10PM ET/PT on Spike TV)
Michael Irvin is taking his hall of fame-caliber football experience to a group of pigskin amateurs in this new reality competition series, which will give one unsigned hopeful an opportunity to make the Dallas Cowboys roster. While the players will undoubtedly listen to Irvin's football wisdom, they're presumably hoping to avoid wearing the flashy suits he likes to don.
So You Think You Can Dance, Season 5 (premieres Thursday, May 21 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
As American Idol enters its annual off season, the fifth season of this dance-themed reality series is ready to take center stage as a new group of two-steppers hope to avoid danger by waltzing into viewers' hearts. With former contestants Dmitry Chaplin, Lacey Schwimmer and Chelsie Hightower all participating in Dancing with the Stars' eighth season, So You Think You Can Dance has apparently become the minor leagues for the ABC reality series.
Intervention, Season 7 (premieres Monday, May 25 at 9PM ET/PT on A&E)
While it may have lost last year's Emmy Award for Outstanding Reality Program to Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, this docu-reality series continues to provide A-list insight into the life of people battling various drug and alcohol addictions and eating disorders. With a chance at life serving as the prize at the end of each episode, the stakes are also much higher than any other reality series.
Jon & Kate Plus 8, Season 5 (premieres Monday, May 25 at 9PM ET/PT on TLC)
Could reality television play a role in the downfall of another marriage? That's the question viewers will undoubtedly want to see answered in the fifth season of this reality series, as Jon and Kate Gosselin attempt to survive recent reports of infidelity while also trying to raise their eight young children, including 5-year-old sextuplets.
Obsessed (premieres Monday, May 25 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
Viewers obsessed with A&E's Intervention will enjoy this new docu-reality series, which will follow individuals suffering from extreme anxiety disorders ranging from obsessive compulsive disorder to a variety of phobias.
Here Come the Newlyweds, Season 2 (premieres Monday, May 25 at 10PM ET/PT on ABC)
As if there already isn't enough facing newlyweds after they walk down the aisle, the second season of this reality competition series will continue to see if several recently-married couples can survive challenges designed to test their affection for one another. With a substantially-large "nest egg" on the line, the couples are presumably hoping they can keep that honeymoon feeling for a few extra weeks.
Cake Boss (premieres Monday, May 25 at 10PM ET/PT on TLC)
Buddy Valastro is the cake king of Hoboken, NJ, and this new Ace of Cakes-like reality series will follow the master baker as he concocts edible pieces of art for various events. However Valastro is hoping there aren't too many cooks in the kitchen, as his mother, four older sisters and three brothers-in-law all lend a helping hand in running the business.
The Little Couple (premieres Tuesday, May 26 at 10PM ET/PT on TLC)
TLC apparently can't get enough of airing the everyday lives of little people, as this new reality series will follow businessman Bill Klein and pediatrician Jen Arnold -- both of whom are less than four-feet tall -- as they embark on their new life together and face the challenges of marriage. The Roloffs better watch their backs!
Hitched or Ditched (premieres Tuesday, May 26 at 9Pm ET/PT on The CW)
Mike Fleiss has done it again, as The Bachelor creator's latest reality series presents an interesting ultimatum to six couples in a long-term relationship: walk down the aisle or walk away from each other. To see if the couples are ready to take the plunge, they will have a week to test their affection for one another because, as we all know, a week is really all anyone needs to decide if they're ready to spend the rest of their life with somebody.
Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, Season 2 (premieres Tuesday, May 26 at 10PM ET/PT on Oxygen)
While Tori & Dean's first two installments followed Tori Spelling and her husband Dean McDermot as they ran Chateau La Rue bed-and-breakfast, the show's third edition and upcoming fourth season simply gave viewers a glimpse of the couple living their Hollywood lifestyles. Oxygen apparently thinks it's interesting stuff, as they recently inked a multi-platform development deal with the former Beverly Hills 90210 actress and her husband.
Wipeout, Season 2 (premieres Wednesday, May 27 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
Last summer's surprise hit is back with an improved obstacle course designed to create countless crashes and a frenzy of face plants, improbable impacts and wonderful wipeouts. Plus with the economy currently in the tank, who wouldn't risk public embarrassment for a shot at $50,000?
Tattoo Highway (premieres Wednesday, May 27 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
Thomas Pendelton is Santa Claus and everyday is Christmas in this new reality series, which will follow the tattoo artist as he travels cross country in his sleigh (a 1970s tour bus he transformed into an ink shop on wheels) to deliver presents (body art) to various children (anybody eager to go under the needle).
What Not to Wear, Season 7 (premieres Friday, May 29 at 9PM ET/PT on TLC)
The seventh season of this reality series will kick-off with a blast from the past, as the premiere episode will feature former Blossom star Mayim Bialik as she receives a transformation from 1990s fashion horror show to chic woman of the 21st century. Honestly, the makeover is a few decades too late and also should have tackled Bialik's fellow fashion felon from Blossom, Joey Lawrence.
Jesse James is a Dead Man (premieres Sunday, May 31 at 10PM ET/PT on Spike TV)
Presumably inspired by the former Monster Garage star's brush with death in April 2007 when he was almost runover by a stalker of his wife, Sandra Bullock, this new reality series will follow the motorcycle-loving outlaw as he takes on different death-defying challenges. Watching some of Bullock's movies could be considered dangerous but presumably won't be one of the insane stunts James undertakes.
Ice Road Truckers, Season 3 (premieres Sunday, May 31 at 9PM ET/PT on History)
Maneuvering big rigs over 100 foot cliffs around hairpin curves in the middle of whiteouts, avalanches and -70 degree temperatures is just another day on the job for the truckers navigating the treacherous ice roads of the Arctic Ocean in this reality series. Ice Road legends Hugh "Polar Bear" Rowland and Alex Debogorski will also face new up-and-comers looking to take their title, adding a competitive edge to the already dangerous job.
HGTV's $250,000 Challenge (premieres Sunday, May 31 at 10PM ET/PT on HGTV)
Drew Lachey will add to his growing hosting resume with this new reality series, which will pit five Sherman Oaks, CA families against each other in a series of challenges created to test their interior design and home improvement skills. In addition to Lachey, HGTV network stars will also shine in the series by lending a helping hand, hammer or paint brush.
Expedition Africa: Stanley & Livingstone (premieres Sunday, May 31 at 10PM ET/PT on History)
If you think there aren't any unexplored parts of the world left to discover, think again, as this new Mark Burnett-produced reality series will follow four modern-day explorers as they venture into the deep interior of Tanzania. Hopefully they brought some bug spray for the 970-mile challenge.
I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, Season 2 (premieres Monday, June 1 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
Marooning celebrities (and we use that term loosely) in the jungle is still the premise of this reality revival, which will follow the group as they fight for the title of "King or Queen of the Jungle" and a cash prize for their favorite charity. Since the show will air four nights a week for three weeks, NBC is hoping viewers aren't the ones asking to get out of here.
Paris Hilton's My New BFF, Season 2 (premieres Tuesday, June 2 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
Paris Hilton apparently needs all the friends she can get, as the second season of this reality series will once again follow a bevy a of beauties (just as long as they're not as beautiful as Paris) as they compete for the affection of the former The Simple Life star. Chihuahuas need not apply.
Whale Wars, Season 2 (premieres Friday, June 5 at 9PM ET/PT on Animal Planet)
Despite what the title of this show implies, this reality series isn't about waging war with some of the world's largest living animals. Instead, Captain Paul Watson and his Sea Shepherd Conservation Society will continue to do battle with those looking to hunt and harvest whales for commercial purposes. After one episode you'll never look at ambergris the same way again.
The Next Food Network Star, Season 5 (premieres Sunday, June 7 at 9PM ET/PT on Food Network)
With an opportunity to host their own Food Network series on the line, the fifth season of this reality series will once again pit a group of culinary contestants against each other as they are challenged to cook creative dishes all while wearing a smile for the cameras. Guest appearances will include everyone from Bobby Flay to Rachel Ray, so at least the contestants won't have to go too far to find role models.
Bridezillas, Season 6 (premieres Sunday, June 7 at 9PM ET/PT on WEtv)
Can you leave a bride at the altar if the cameras are rolling? That will presumably be a question running through the minds of men featured on the sixth season of this reality series, as their soon-to-be wives' display some of the most heinous and obnoxious behavior ever caught on film -- all before walking down the aisle. Just imagine what these beauties will be like when they're pregnant...
Kendra (premieres Sunday, June 7 at 10PM ET/PT on E!)
It's goodbye Playboy Mansion for Kendra Wilkinson, as this new reality series will follow the former The Girls Next Door star as ditches ex-boyfriend Hugh Hefner for fiance Hank Baskett in an attempt to settle down and start a family. Good luck Hank!
Denise Richards: It's Complicated, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, June 7 at 10:30PM ET/PT on E!)
Denise Richards life is apparently so complicated that this reality series warranted a second season, which will continue to follow the actress (trust us, she's been in some movies) as she navigates life sans ex-husband Charlie Sheen.
Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, Season 5 (premieres Monday, June 8 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
After her second-straight Emmy award win last September, it's getting harder and harder for Kathy Griffin to prove she's on the D-list. However the comedian will attempt to do just that on the fifth season of this reality series, with stunts ranging from creating a Facebook account to obtaining a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Fame.
Top Chef Masters (premieres Wednesday, June 10 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
The new Top Chef spin-off -- and Iron Chef knock-off -- will pit culinary professionals against one another in a bracket-style tournament that will see the winner receive $100,000 for a charity of his or her choice.
She's Got the Look, Season 2 (premieres Thursday, June 11 at 9PM ET/PT on TV Land)
The second season of this America's Next Top Model-like reality series will once again attempt to prove that age is only a number by pitting 10 women ages 35-and-older against one another to see who can best strut their stuff for a photo spread in SELF magazine and $100,000.
16 & Pregnant (premieres Thursday, June 11 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
From female teenagers in Gloucester, MA who were purposely trying to get pregnant to Bristol Palin becoming a spokeswoman for abstinence AFTER she was already a teen mother, this new MTV reality series will give viewers a glimpse of what it's like to have a child before you get your drivers license. At least the network is doing its part to promote safe sex.
Hammertime (premieres Sunday, June 14 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
Another washed-up rapper has received their own reality series, as this new show will follow MC Hammer as he juggles his family life with trying to manage his website, perform at concerts, give speaking engagements, and run his own music label. Who would have ever thought MC Hammer could be so busy?
Wedding Day (premieres Tuesday, June 16 at 8PM ET/PT on TNT)
If Mark Burnett really is the "Spielberg of reality" -- as Audrina Patridge claims he is -- then this new reality series could be considered his attempt at a romantic comedy, as the Survivor producer is behind this new reality series that will provide deserving couples their dream wedding. If you ask us, Burnett should probably stick to competition series and leave the love stories for others to tackle.
I Survived a Japanese Game Show, Season 2 (premieres Wednesday, June 17 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
The second season of this reality competition series will once again attempt to prove that -- no matter how wild and wacky American reality and game shows are -- the Japanese have a knack for kicking it up a notch. At least America still builds a better car... right?
The Singing Bee (premieres Saturday, June 20 at 10PM ET/PT on CMT)
The Singing Bee went from delivering some of the best summer ratings when it premiered in July 2007 on NBC to being revived on CMT, which will air new episodes of the karaoke-style competition series. While the network has promised The Singing Bee will now have a country twang, they've also gotten scientific about it -- promising "a mix of 60% country music with 40% popular favorites from other genres." Sounds like a weather forecast, not a show format.
America's Got Talent, Season 4 (premieres Tuesday, June 23 at 9PM ET/PT on NBC)
Whether creator Simon Cowell intended it or not, this reality show is now in competition with its sister series across the Atlantic to see which country can churn out the best talent. NBC is presumably hoping that viewers simply tune in to see if America can come up with its own version of Susan Boyle.
The Superstars (premieres Tuesday, June 23 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
In a day-and-age when celebrities are athletes and athletes are celebrities, ABC's celebrity-themed revival of this former Wide World of Sports staple will attempt to see which athlete/celebrity pairing is the most physically fit to win a series of head-to-head athletic challenges. We're guessing it will end with a lot of injured celebrities and even more frustrated athletes.
NYC Prep (premieres Tuesday, June 23 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Gossip Girls comes to life in this new reality series, which will follow group of young socialites as they network, shop, party, study, date and write college applications all while living on the Upper East Side. Sounds gritty, real and in-your-face, doesn't it?
Dance Your Ass Off (premieres Monday, June 29 at 10PM ET/PT on Oxygen)
Since folks that need to shed a few pounds typically don't enjoy exercising or dancing, this new reality competition series will cover both angles by following a group of full-figured contestants as they attempt to lose weight by shaking their moneymaker.
Great American Road Trip (premieres Tuesday, July 7 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
As the summer vacation season begins to heat up, NBC is hoping this new reality series will sizzle as it follows several families as they travel across the country while competing against each other in a series of challenges. Hopefully the kids behave in the backseat or it could be a long drive with constant "Are we there yet?" nags and "Don't make me pull over!" threats.
Big Brother, Season 11 (premieres Thursday, July 9 at 8PM ET/PT at CBS)
Talk about voyeuristic, as Julie Chen will be six-months pregnant when the eleventh-season of this reality series returns after fans were allowed to miss it for a whole year. Also make sure to clear DVR space since it will once again be airing three-nights-a-week.
Ghost Hunters International, Season 2 (premieres Wednesday, July 9 at 9PM ET/PT on Sci Fi Channel)
Hunting ghouls in haunted spots across the Atlantic will continue to be the focus of this Ghost Hunters spin-off, which will follow Veteran The Atlantic Paranormal Society members as they attempt to see if spooks from other countries speak with accents.
Keyshawn Johnson: Tackling Design (premieres Saturday, July 11 at 12PM ET/PT on A&E)
In all fairness, Keyshawn Johnson never did much tackling during his time as an NFL wide receiver. Regardless, this new reality series will follow the retired football player as he attempts to make a name for himself in the world of interior design by trying to impress different clients. Just show them your Super Bowl bling Key!
Miami Social (premieres Tuesday, July 14 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
With Bravo reality shows focusing on everything from housewives to teenage socialites, this new reality series will document the lives of young, single professionals who -- Shocker! -- party just as hard as they work. Two cast members will also look familiar to hardcore reality fans, as The Apprentice first-season contestant Katrina Campins and Big Brother 2 houseguest Hardy Hill show how to live in "The Magic City."
HGTV Design Star, Season 4 (premieres Sunday, July 19 at 10PM ET/PT on HGTV)
Similar to Food Network's The Next Food Network Star -- which also is needlessly redundant by including the network's title in its own moniker -- this reality series will pit a group of contestants against one another with the winner eventually receiving his or her own show.
Dating in the Dark (premieres Monday, July 20 at 10PM ET/PT on ABC)
Sticking to the old adage that looks aren't all that matters when it comes to compatibility, each episode of this new reality dating series will put three single men and three single women together in a house -- allowing them to communicate and interact without the aid of light. Once they select who they want to see and they are revealed to each other, some may want to continue the relationship in darkness.
Hell's Kitchen, Season 6 (premieres Tuesday, July 21 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
While there won't be much new for the sixth season of this culinary competition series, one of the contestants apparently challenges Gordon Ramsay "head-to-head," leading to the "most explosive, most outrageous and most intense elimination round ever seen" on the show. Our money's on Gordon...
The Colony (premieres Tuesday, July 21 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel)
This new reality series will give viewers a glimpse of what it's like to live in a post-catastrophe world without having to go through all the ugliness of billions of people being killed and world civilization being destroyed. Survival never seemed so fun!
More to Love (premieres Tuesday, July 28 at 9PM ET/PT on Fox)
You can't stop Mike Fleiss, you can only hope to contain him -- as The Bachelor creator has ripped-off his own format in this new reality dating series before giving it a twist in the form of a plus-size suitor and a bevy of voluptuous bachelorettes. We're not sure we want to live in a world where Fleiss and Fox reality chief Mike Darnell are allowed to collaborate, considering past projects have included the legendary Who Wants to Marry a Multi-Millionaire.
The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Season 2 (premieres Thursday, July 30 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
The second season of this reality series will feature Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Kandi Burruss replacing DeShawn Snow, who claims producers declined to renew her contract because she wasn't interesting enough. Don't worry DeShawn, not everyone can have as interesting a life as Lisa Wu Hartwell, who is deciding if she wants a second child. We can't take the suspense!
Megan Wants a Millionaire (premieres Sunday, August 2 at 9PM ET/PT on VH1)
It's about time Megan Hauserman received her own reality series, as this show will follow the former -- take a deep breathe -- Beauty and the Geek, Rock of Love with Bret Michaels, I Love Money and Rock of Love: Charm School contestant as she embarks on a search to find romance with one of 17 eligible multi-millionaires. Hauserman should just join The Girls Next Door while she's still young.
Tool Academy, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, August 2 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
It's all in the title for the second season of this reality series, as a group of tools attend an academy where they will be schooled in proper boyfriend behavior such as honesty, fidelity, maturity and communication in the hopes of showing their girlfriends they are worth keeping.
Real Chance of Love: Back in the Saddle (premieres Monday, August 3 at 9PM ET/PT on VH1)
Although viewers have presumably seen Ahmad "Real" Givens and Kamal "Chance" Givens receive more chances at love than either probably deserve, the second season of this reality dating series will once again follow the brothers in their seemingly never-ending quest for romance. Is Tiffany Pollard available?
Addicted to Beauty (premieres Tuesday, August 4 at 11PM ET/PT on Oxygen)
Beauty can be had for a price in this new reality series, which will follow the staff at California's Changes Plastic Surgery and Spa as they tuck tummies, remove wrinkles and balloon breasts.
How'd You Get So Rich? (premieres Thursday, August 6 at 9PM ET/PT on TV Land)
Joan Rivers proved that she can still run her mouth with the best of them as a The Celebrity Apprentice second-season contestant, and now the she'll take the helm of this new reality series that introduces viewers to millionaires who made their money in a variety of interesting ways.
America's Best Dance Crew, Season 4 (premieres Thursday, August 6 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
With dance crew names that are just as wacky as the moves they perform, the fourth season of this reality competition series will once again attempt to find the country's hottest young dance crew. However there's no truth to the rumor that the show's fourth-season winner will receive a spot in a Gatorade commercial.
There Goes the Neighborhood (premieres Sunday, August 9 at 9PM ET/PT on CBS)
While CBS did the best to keep the concept of this reality series under wraps, the 20-foot wall they constructed in suburban Atlanta kind of clued people in on what was going on -- as this new reality competition series will feature families battling against each other on their own property behind said wall. We can see the property values falling as we speak.
Shark Tank (premieres Sunday, August 9 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
Mark Burnett is giving ambitious entrepreneurs a chance to make it big in this American adaptation of the overseas Dragons' Den reality series, which will follow the amateur inventors as they pitch their plans to already established moguls with the goal of landing enough of a venture capital investment to move their idea forward. Hopefully the entrepreneurs remember that sharks bite more than they dole out money.
Flipping Out, Season 3 (premieres Monday, August 17 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Considering Jeff Lewis' obsessive-compulsive tendencies, now is probably not the best time to be wheeling-and-dealing in the world of real estate. However the third season of this reality series will continue to follow Lewis as he does just that with the help of his trusty staff to quell -- or induce -- anxiety.
Ghost Hunters, Season 5 (premieres Wednesday, August 19 at 9PM ET/PT on Sci Fi Channel)
The Atlantic Paranormal Society members Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson apparently have no idea what the phrase "Rest in Peace" means, as the fifth season of this reality series will continue to follow the real-life plumbers as they haunt the dead in an attempt to debunk claims of otherworldly activity.
Project Runway, Season 6 (premieres Thursday, August 20 at 10PM ET/PT on Lifetime)
It's finally "Hello Lifetime!" and "Goodbye Bravo!" for the sixth season of this reality series, which was in legal limbo for almost a full year after Lifetime Networks and The Weinstein Company first announced their five-year, 10-season deal. The Real World's Bunim-Murray Productions production company are also onboard, meaning viewers can probably expect some drunken debauchery.
Models of the Runway (premieres Thursday, August 20 at 11PM ET/PT on Lifetime)
Sick of playing second fiddle to the designers whose clothing they don, this new Project Runway spin-off will provide viewers a look at the show through the eyes of the models who participate in it, as they will also face weekly eliminations while competing for a cash prize and photo spread in Marie Claire magazine.
The Rachel Zoe Project, Season 2 (premieres Tuesday, August 25 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Everybody's favorite celebrity stylist is back in the second season of this reality series, which will once again follow Rachel Zoe as she leads her team of fashion experts in an ongoing mission to build her brand.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Saturday, May 16, 2009 - 03:55 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Friday, May 15, 2009 - 08:01 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, May 07, 2009 - 06:04 PM EST
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Audrina Patridge is apparently ready to live life post-The Hills on her new reality series.
"It's my life after The Hills, my journey. It's going to be a little spicier, edgier, older," Patridge told People at the Tuesday night premiere of Into the Blue 2: The Reef, her first film role.
Last month, Patridge inked a deal with Mark Burnett -- whom she calls "the Spielberg of reality" -- to star in her own reality series instead of returning for a potential sixth season of The Hills.
"There is a sadness," Patridge told People about her The Hills departure.
"[The show] gave me these opportunities, and the cast and the crew almost became like a family. But at this point all of us are ready to branch out, and I feel like all of us have changed and matured so much that we're ready to go out for the next big challenge."
Patridge's new reality project -- which is currently being shopped to different networks -- will "offer up a closer look at her Hollywood lifestyle," according to People, which added the series will also touch upon an upcoming role in the horror film Sorority Row and her Divine Rights of Denim clothing line.
In addition, Patridge also hinted the series might not take place in Los Angeles.
"It's also [about] how I stay grounded with my family," she told People.
Patridge said she also might have ditched her on-again/off-again boyfriend Justin Bobby for good.
"There's going to be new love, romances." she told People before adding there will be some closure between Bobby and herself during The Hills currently airing fifth season.
"It could resolve things in a good way or in a bad way. You'll have to see. But put it this way, I don't really hold back. I just let it all out this season. I fight back."
Patridge's deal with Burnett came less than a month after Lauren Conrad claimed The Hills fifth season would be her last, and her departure was subsequently confirmed by executive producer Liz Gately.
However that doesn't mean The Hills fifth season will necesarily be its last, as Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt have previously stated they plan on carrying the torch into a potential sixth installment.
"[They] want to continue The Hills forever!" Patridge told People about Montag and Pratt.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 01:56 PM EST
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Bravo has announced that it is currently developing three new docu-reality series -- Eric B., Secret Life of Supermodels and Social Heights.
Eric B. will star florist Eric Buterbaugh as he caters to celebrities, power brokers and other high-end clients holding special events. Each Eric B. episode will follow Buterbaugh from the start of his creative process as he meets with clients to executing his various floral designs while working with his staff.
The tentatively-titled series is produced by Katalyst Media, with Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Jason Goldberg, Rod Aissa and Karey Burke serving as executive producers.
Secret Life of Supermodels is a new reality series stars a group of world-renowned supermodels led by The Celebrity Apprentice first-season contestant Carol Alt and including Maggie Rizer, Frederique van der Wal, Mariel Hemingway, Irina Pantaeva and Patricia Velasquez.
Each episode of the tentatively-titled series will follow the aforementioned supermodels -- who are also close friends -- as they wield their celebrity status to influence various business and charitable endeavors.
Secret Life of Supermodels is produced by Stick Figure Productions and Bayonne Entertainment, with Steven Cantor, Daniel Laikind, Terry Clark and Rob Lee serving as executive producers.
Social Heights is a new reality series that will follow a close group of Manhattan friends as they try to stake their claim to social prominence in New York City, as some will achieve their goal while others will fail.
The tentatively-titled series is produced by ABC Media Productions and Stick Figure Productions, with Cantor, Laikind and Clark serving as executive producers.
In addition to Eric B., Secret Life of Supermodels and Social Heights, Bravo also announced it is developing Jackie's Gym Takeover, a new Kitchen Nightmares-like reality series starring Work Out star Jackie Warner; and Laura Bennett, the working title of a new docu-reality series that will follow former Project Runway third season finalist as she juggles her career with her personal life.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, April 15, 2009 - 05:00 PM EST
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Bravo announced it has ordered Design Sixx, a new docu-reality series starring husband and wife design team Cortney and Robert Novogratz.
The couple owns Sixx Design, which purchases abandoned buildings in Manhattan and transforms them into multi-million dollar residences.
However before they flip the delapitated dwellings they purchase, Courtney and Robert -- as well as their six children, all under age 11 -- live in the space to get a sense of how they ultimately want to design it.
In addition, Courtney is currently pregnant with the couple's seventh child -- making matters even more chaotic as they attempt to balance family with their established business.
The tentitvely-titled series is produced by Left/Right, with Ken Druckerman and Banks Tarver serving as the show's executive producers.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, April 15, 2009 - 04:33 PM EST
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Bravo has announced that it is developing new two new reality series featuring Work Out star Jackie Warner and former Project Runway finalist Laura Bennett.
Jackie's Gym Takeover, Warner's new reality series, will use a Kitchen Nightmares-like format and feature Warner visiting struggling gym owners and using her own gym ownership and entrepreneurial experience to help the owners turn their failing businesses around.
In addition to updating some of the gyms' equipment, Warner will also help the owners get more effective trainers, create better classes, and improve their marketing plans.
If Jackie's Gym Takeover's format sounds familiar its because Bravo already airs Tabatha's Salon Takeover, a Kitchen Nightmares-like reality series that follows former Shear Genius first-season contestant Tabatha Coffey as she attempts to improve struggling hair salons. Bravo renewed Tabatha's Salon Takeover, which premiered in August, for a second season in December.
Jackie Gym Takeover is produced by Shed Media U.S., with Nick Emmerson, Jennifer O'Connell, Yann deBonne and Warner serving as executive producers.
Bennett -- who finished third on Project Runway's Summer 2006 third season -- will star in Laura Bennett, the working title of a new docu-reality series that will follow the fashion designer as she juggles her career with her personal life, which includes her husband, six children (five of them boys), and a band of misbehaving family pets.
Laura Bennett -- which Bravo is billing as a "hilarious docu-series" -- is being produced by Goodbye Pictures and executive produced by Rich Bye.
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Posted by: Reality TV World staff on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 - 05:04 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 - 12:26 PM EST
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Spike TV has announced it has ordered a pilot for Pirate Hunters: USN, a new reality series that will follow the US Navy's military operation aimed at ending the threat of piracy in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Africa.
The pilot is being produced by 44 Blue Productions and will follow two warships -- the USS San Antonio and USS Boxer -- as they patrol 1.1 million square miles of ocean for pirates who have recently been terrorizing the region.
"We are thrilled to be front and center with the Navy on such an important mission," said Spike TV executive Sharon Levy. "The access we have will really give our viewers the kind of heart-stopping action they have come to expect from Spike programming."
Spike TV's announcement came a day after the dramatic rescue of Captain Richard Phillips, who had been held hostage in a lifeboat for five days by Somali pirates.
The incident occurred in the same region as where Pirate Hunters: USN intends to film its pilot and the USS Boxer was one of the warships that converged on the scene.
"We didn't know whether it would put the kibosh on things or accelerate things," 44 Blue president and founder Rasha Drachkovitch told Daily Variety in a Monday report.
"But the Navy reps told us, 'This is incredible timing for you guys. You're going to get a front-row seat in our response.'"
Drachkovitch -- who is scheduled to board the USS Boxer next week -- added that the growing threat of pirates in the region and the Navy's increased efforts to thwart them should make Pirate Hunters: USN muest-see-TV.
"They're changing the mission to be more proactive," he told Variety. "In some ways we're going to capture better action on film than had this not happened."
Drachkovitch will executive produce the pilot with Adam Friedman.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, April 13, 2009 - 04:20 PM EST
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America's first openly transgendered mayor is reportedly ready to star in a reality show.
Stu Rasmussen is currently the star of a potential pilot that production company RDF USA is filming about his challenges as a transgendered person and the problems he faces as mayor of Silverton, OR, Broadcasting & Cable reported Wednesday.
"I think it will be an interesting project if it comes together, but I think we have to be on top of this to make sure that it shows Silverton in the best possible light," Rasmussen told the Salem Statesman Journal, according to Broadcasting & Cable.
RDF USA -- whose reality credits include Fox's Secret Millionaire and Don't Forget the Lyrics, ABC's Wife Swap, and The CW's Hitched or Ditched -- confirmed that the company has shot footage in Silverton, which it will now review with its development team, according to Broadcasting & Cable.
The 60-year-old Rasmussen is also a software engineer and co-owner of the Palace Theatre in Silverton.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, April 13, 2009 - 12:13 AM EST
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Fox has found a way to turn job losses due to the tough economy into a new reality series.
The network has ordered Someone's Gotta Go, which will take place in real businesses across America and give employees the power to decide who among them gets fired, Daily Variety reported Wednesday.
"It's Survivor meets The Office," Fox reality chief Mike Darnell told Variety.
"When someone is arbitrarily let go the first reaction usually is 'How come that person was fired when another idiot is still here?' This finally gives employees a chance to make that decision instead of a boss."
Someone's Gotta Go is being produced by Big Brother's Endemol USA production company, according to Variety, which added the series is already in production and could premiere by late summer or early fall.
While Fox and Endemol have remained tight-lipped on several aspects of the show's format, Variety reported each episode will feature a different small business that has been forced to downsize its staff due to the country's current economic climate.
The employees will get to review the company's human resources files -- including salary information -- while also having the chance to speak their minds about each other face-to-face.
In addition, the employees will be helped by a "professional business coach/employment consultant who will double as the series host," Variety reported. Fox and Endemol declined to reveal the host's identity.
Each episode will conclude with the employees voting on who loses their job, according to Variety, which added the terminated worker will likely receive a "small severance."
Darnell told Variety that Someone's Gotta Go's concept came to him after he saw a television news report about a struggling business owner who let her employees know each other's salary information, which led to a conversation about who was making too much and cost cuts.
Fox subsequently teamed with Endemol for the series after both had been contemplating reality show formats based in the workplace, according to Variety.
"We're always trying to find the next thing that is topical and timely in the zeitgeist. What could be more current than the financial crisis and dealing with the realities of losing jobs? This is an extension of that real-life experience," Endemol North America executive David Goldberg told Variety.
"For a lot of people, it takes the pressure off them. As a boss myself, I don't want to have to make those decisions. It's safe to say that it hasn't been difficult to find companies willing to participate."
Darnell reiterated Someone's Gotta Go has a similar feel to The Office and added the reality show is even being filmed in a documentary style similar to the scripted NBC sitcom, Variety reported.
"The biggest show on TV about offices is a fictional show that looks like a reality show," he told Variety.
Darnell and Goldberg told Variety they have also decided to preemptively confront potential legal problems by taking "extra precautions" by vetting the show through several legal channels.
"We've consulted with labor attorneys and have covered all of our bases," Goldberg told Variety. "We've got an employment expert and business consultant to work with us through this process. There is a professional involved that brings the show an element of credibility."
"A lot of things had to be signed off [before proceeding with the show]," added Darnell.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, April 08, 2009 - 04:53 PM EST
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TLC has announced that it plans to introduce 13 new reality series as part of the cable network's 2009-2010 programming slate.
"Viewers come to TLC to meet remarkable people in extra-ordinary circumstances. Our authentic characters draw people in and their relatability keeps them watching," said TLC president Eileen O'Neill. "In television, we're always looking for the next generation. In addition to expanding our family and relationship properties, the [new] line-up reenergizes popular genres that capture life's biggest moments."
Two of the new shows -- Mom Inc. and Eat, Drink and be Married -- are part of a partnership between TLC and Milojo Productions, a production company run by Live with Regis and Kelly host Kelly Ripa and her husband Mark Consuelos.
Mom Inc. is the working title for a new series that will help struggling entrepreneurs turn an innovative idea into a lucrative business.
Working in collaboration with HSN, Mom Inc. will find budding business women from across America and give them the chance to prove that they have what it takes to get their very own creations sold on HSN -- with Ripa selecting a product in each episode and sending her expert into the field to put the would-be moguls through a series of tasks meant to get their product ready for the public.
Eat, Drink and be Married will follow the Frungillo family as they run their four successful catering facilities. Each episode of the series will introduce viewers to a different couple who has hired the Frungillo family for their wedding -- documenting the event from the initial booking to the actual nuptials.
The other new series announced by TLC are The Little Couple, Wedded to Perfection, Wild Weddings, Freakin Fabulous with Clinton Kelly, Making Over America with Trinny & Susannah, The General, Restorer Guy, Stager Invasion, Cake Boss, Ultimate Cake-Off and The Police Women Project.
Based on the Little People: Just Married special TLC aired in January, The Little Couple will follow Bill Klein and Jen Arnold -- both of whom are less than four-feet tall -- as they embark on their new life together and face the challenges of marriage. TLC ordered the reality series last month.
Wedded to Perfection will follow spouses Jung Lee and Josh Brooks as they run their Fete Events business, which plans and executes high-end weddings and special events in New York City.
Wild Weddings will provide a look at the lighter side of weddings, as the six-part series will include flops, fiascos, gaffs and mishaps as they take place at actual wedding ceremonies.
Freakin Fabulous with Clinton Kelly is the working title for a new reality series that is based the What Not to Wear co-host's "Freakin' Fabulous: How to Dress, Speak, Behave, Eat, Drink, Entertain, Decorate, and Generally Be Better Than Everyone Else" book. The series will follow Kelly in his everyday life, which includes dishing advice while making public appearances.
Making Over America with Trinny & Susannah will star Trinny Woodall and Susannah Constantine -- the original hosts of the U.K. What Not to Wear program that TLC's version was based on -- as they help give American women makeovers and provide them fashion tools to help transform their lives. TLC premiered Making Over America as a special that aired immediately after the network's broadcast of the 2009 Miss America pageant in January.
The General is the working title for a new reality series starring Summer Baltzer, an interior designer who takes the reigns of her family's business and turns botched contracting jobs into dreams homes.
Restorer Guy will follow home restoration expert Gable Painter and his team as they restore historic homes across America.
Stager Invasion will be hosted by Lisa Lynch and follow the staging expert as she helps desperate homeowners by bringing in a team of property experts to stage and help sell their house quickly and for the highest price possible.
Cake Boss will follow master baker/cake artist Buddy Valastro and the staff of his bake shop in Hoboken, NJ. In addition to Valastro, the shop's staff also his mother, four older sisters and three brothers-in-law. TLC ordered the Ace of Cakes-like reality series last month.
Ultimate Cake-Off is a new reality competition series that will pit top bakers from across the country against one another as they battle to design the biggest, most outrageous and breathtaking cakes.
The Police Women Project is a new Cops-like reality series that will follow five women working in the Broward County Florida Sheriff's Office as they respond to 911 calls, bust gangsters, serve warrants, go on car chases and participate in undercover sting operations.
In addition to the aforementioned new series, TLC has also announced 12 of its existing reality programs -- 18 Kids and Counting; American Choppers; Jon & Kate Plus 8; LA Ink; Little People, Big World; Moving Up; The Real Estate Pros; Say Yes to the Dress; Street Customs; Table for 12; Toddlers & Tiaras; and What Not to Wear -- will all return with new episodes during the 2009-2010 season.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 08:29 AM EST
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Kelly Osbourne says she is finally free of an addiction to painkillers that she has dealt with since she was 13-years-old.
"I had my tonsils taken out [at age 13], and they gave me liquid Vicodin," the now 24-year-old star of Fox's upcoming Osbournes: Reloaded told People. "I found, when I take this, people like me. I'm having fun, I'm not getting picked on. It became a confidence thing."
However, although she underwent two stints in rehab in 2004 and 2005 to try and kick the addiction, Osbourne added that it wasn't until a recently completed third month-long rehab stint that she was finally able to rid herself of her reliance on painkillers.
"I knew if I didn't get help, I would die," she told People.
Now clean and preparing for the premiere of Osbournes: Reloaded on Tuesday, March 31 at 9PM ET/PT, Osbourne said she is looking forward to refocusing on her career.
"I'm getting a second chance [at my career]," she says, "And I want to be present for it."
In January, matriarch Sharon Osbourne revealed that Kelly had re-entered rehab but did not disclose the reasons for her admission.
"Yeah, Kelly's in rehab," Sharon told Radar Online at the time. "What else can we say? She knew that it was the right thing to do at this point and we're proud that she did it. The family is all standing behind her. Kelly knew that she needed help and she's getting it."
"We just pray that everything's going to be okay," she said.
The rehab announcement also came only days after Kelly had been arrested and charged with common assault on January 2 for allegedly slapping a woman at a London nightclub last August.
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Posted by: John Bracchitta on Friday, March 20, 2009 - 03:14 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 - 12:13 AM EST
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With the weather is beginning to warm a new slate of reality series -- featuring many longtime favorites and a few interesting new shoes as well -- is set to debut in the coming weeks.
Whether you want to know how well Lawrence Taylor can do a cha-cha-cha, have an extreme interest in dog grooming, or are just hoping that the next The Bachelorette star doesn't (or maybe does) break a few hearts, the spring season has more than enough going for it to keep everyone happy until the dog days of summer set in.
The following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Winter Preview, highlighting all of the currently known shows that will be premiering in coming months as well as where and when to tune in.
In addition, some shows that debuted recently -- including American Idol, The Biggest Loser: Couples, Hell's Kitchen, The Amazing Race, and Survivor: Tocantins will also air new episodes during the spring as well.
The Celebrity Apprentice, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, March 1 at 9PM ET/PT on NBC)
While some may question the alleged "celebrity" status of some of The Donald's latest group of buddies, it's hard to argue with the star power of second-season The Celebrity Apprentice stars Andrew Dice Clay, Joan and Melissa Rivers, Dennis Rodman and Tom Green. In other news today, President Clinton addressed Congress about the nation's ever-surging economy...
Running in Heels (premieres Sunday, March 1 at 8PM ET/PT on Style Network)
Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at a fashion magazine? If so, here's your chance to find out. From celebrity cover shoots to high-profile Fashion Week events, Running in Heels will show Marie Claire magazine's editors and interns doing it all. In addition, the show will also feature Project Runway judge Nina Garcia's arrival at Marie Claire last September.
Ax Men, season 2 (premieres Monday, March 2 at 10PM ET/PT on History)
Question: What is harder to grasp about the second season of Ax Men, which will continue to follow the activities of Pacific Northwest loggers as they brave violent weather, mechanical problems, and unpredictable terrain to retrieve timber? Is it the fact that someone actually pitched a show about the lives of people who's profession is to cut wood, or the fact that it was picked up, and subsequently became a cable rating hit while airing on a network devoted to history of all places? Discuss amongst yourselves while we prepare our new Watching Paint Dry reality series pitch.
Harlem Heights (premieres Monday, March 2 at 10PM ET/PT on BET)
Looking for a The Hills of their own, BET's Harlem Heights will follow eight young African Americans, including the ex-girlfriend of an international music star; a budding lifestyle editor for a magazine; a struggling actress; and the hard-partying son of a prominent Harlem political leader as they attempt to make their mark on New York City. Immediately following its premiere, the network will have already prepared a statement to refute claims that the entire show is staged and that the elopement of two of its stars in Mexico was only done for media attention.
Make Me a Supermodel, Season 2 (premieres Wednesday, March 4 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
"Change" is the abounding theme of Make Me a Supermodel's second season, which will see designer Catherine Malandrino; model Jenny Shimizu; international model scout Marlon; and Perou, a fashion photographer who served as a judge on the original U.K. Make Me A Supermodel, replace the show's first season judges. Supermodel Tyson Beckford will also be promoted to being the show's sole host while Nicole Trunfio will act as the new mentor to the season's female contestants instead of Niki Taylor. The show will also be pre-filmed and do away the first season's near real-time format that allowed home viewers to determine each week's eliminations and the competition's eventual winner.
Sunday Best, Season 2 (premiere Sunday, March 8 at 9PM ET/PT on BET)
Can we get a Hallelujiah! Sunday's Best returns for a second season as it, once again, sets out to find the next great gospel singer by scouring the country for undiscovered talent regularly relegated to church performances. Along with Grammy Award-winning gospel, hip-hop and R&B artist Kirk Franklin, who will serve as the show's host, Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Bebe Winans and gospel duo Mary Mary will also return to judge the contestants and serve as mentors to the contestants as they hone their vocal talents.
Dancing with the Stars, Season 8 (premieres Monday, March 9 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
Romance, injuries and Bruno Tonioli, oh my! Dancing with the Stars' returns for its eighth installment with yet another eclectic group of celebrities looking to learn their way around the dance floor. With a cast featuring former NFL star Lawrence Taylor, Jackass' Steve-O and Apple Computer co-founder Steve Wozniak, as well as two new professional dancers and the return of professional dancer-turned-songstress-turned-dancer again Julianne Hough, viewers can expect all of the unique brand of drama and controversy that seems to only surface when dance shoes and live cameras are involved.
The Chopping Block (premieres Wednesday, March 11 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
Looking for a Hell's Kitchen of their own, NBC recruited the show's former U.K. star Marco Pierre White to star in The Chopping Block, which will feature two teams of four couples each who will be given two empty, side-by-side restaurant spaces in the middle of Manhattan compete head-to-head until only one couple is left standing. Legend has it that White brought Chef Gordon Ramsey to tears while training him many years ago, so one would expect that a few feelings may be hurt by the time this show's run its course.
Bridget's Sexiest Beaches (premieres Thursday, March 12 at 10PM ET/PT on Travel Channel)
With her tenure as a resident house bunny at the Playboy Mansion coming to an end, soon-to-be former The Girls Next Door star Bridget Marquardt will follow up her initial reality TV success with Bridget's Sexiest Beaches, which will feature her traveling to some of the world's most exotic seaside destinations to sample cuisine and local fashions while partying as well. When you are able to parlay a career of being pampered by Hugh Hefner into a gig where you essentially get paid to vacation and maintain a tan, you know you're doing right.
The Osbournes: Reloaded (premieres Tuesday, March 13 at 9PM ET/PT on Fox)
"The Prince of Darkness" continues to lighten up by the minute as he and his rockstar family return to the small screen for, of all things, a variety show? The Osbournes: Reloaded will feature the Ozzy, Sharon, Jack and Kelly as they take part in such "outrageous" acts such as bringing a stripping grandmother onstage along with "hilarious" off-stage segments such as "Osbournes Meet the Osbournes" where the family travels around the country and live with families that share their last name. Bats around the world rejoice, Ozzy is officially as edgy as a beachball...
Tough Love (premieres Sunday, March 15 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
Fake movie romance is no longer enough for Tough Love producer Drew Barrymore. Tough Love will feature matchmaker Steve Ward as he improves the dating habits of eight women through his "tough love boot camp," before being sent out on dates with men chosen by Ward himself. The cast will include an obsessive Boston Red Sox fan who is in love with a has-been-turned-late night talk show host, a woman with amnesia who thinks she's meeting her boyfriend for the first time every time she sees him, and a 30-year-old journalist posing as a high school student. Oh, wait...
Taking the Stage (premieres Thursday, March 19 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
Nick Lachey makes his return to reality TV on MTV with Taking the Stage, which will see the former Newlywed star work with and showcase the lives of five talented students at the School For Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA) in Cincinnati, Ohio, a school that has produced entertainers such as Lachey, Sarah Jessica Parker and Carmen Electra.
The Locator, Season 2 (premieres Saturday, March 21 at 9PM ET/PT on WE tv)
The Locator will once again follow professional locator Troy Dunn as he and his team of professionals seek out different people and prepare them for a reunion with a loved one they had previously fallen out of contact with. Expect more confrontations, emotional reunions, and teary-eyed viewers trying to pretend that they just have something stuck in their eyes.
Table for 12 (premieres Monday, March 23 at 10PM ET/PT on TLC)
When does a network to have too many shows about families who have too many kids? Table for 12 joins Jon & Kate Plus 8 and 18 Kids and Counting as TLC's third super-sized family reality show that features Eric and Betty Hayes along with their 10 children, which are made up of two sets of twins and four-year-old sextuplets. The Hayes' may also go down in history as the first TV family that also represent a semi-decent poker hand.
College Hill: South Beach (premieres Tuesday, March 24 at 10PM ET/PT on BET)
The Real World, err, rather, College Hill returns for a fifth season that will once again feature nine college students as they attempt to live together under the same roof and deal with each others personalities in a swanky South Beach, FL pad for one semester. You gotta hand it to BET, this kind of programming originality doesn't come around too often.
Pretty Wicked (premieres Tuesday, March 31 at 10PM ET/PT on Oxygen)
Pretty Wicked will look to tap into the runaway success of ABC's True Beauty (uh, oh) by bringing 10 female beauties into a competition thinking that it will focus on their outer beauty. However, before the competitions begins, the contestants will be informed that their outer beauty will actually mean nothing in the competition, which will instead judge only their personalities. How will they split the money if everyone comes in a 10-way tie for last?
WCG Ultimate Gamer (premieres March 10, 2009 at 10PM ET/PT on Sci Fi)
And the video gamers did rejoice! Ultimate Gamer will feature 12 professional gamers who compete in video game-inspired physical challenges before moving on to playing the actual video games the physical challenges were based on as they compete for a "Samsung electronics package, complete with the company’s most advanced technology products," as well as $100,000 and trips to video game tournaments organized by the World Cyber Games league. Eliminated contestants will immediately be escorted off the premesis by a plumber with a mustache unless they can first knock him down with a barrel.
River Monsters (premieres Sunday, April 5 at 10PM ET/PT on Animal Planet)
River Monsters will feature biologist and extreme angler Jeremy Wade as he travels around the world to exotic locations from Germany and Australia to Texas as he seeks out deadly creatures and predators that live underwater but are shrouded in mystery such as the piranha, alligator gar and wels catfish.
Mythbusters, Season 7 (premieres Wednesday, April 8 at 9PM ET/PT on Discovery)
Mythbusters' seventh season will continue to follow special effects experts Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage as they continue to use modern-day science and technology to tackle various myths and discover the truths behind them. In addition to traveling to Alaska to test local myths and anecdotes as part of the network's Alaska Week event, the Mythbusters team will also test how slippery a banana peel on the floor actually is and see if a double-dipped chip is actually unsanitary.
American Chopper, Season 6 (premieres Thursday, April 9 at 9PM ET/PT on TLC)
American Chopper's sixth season will follow the Teutuls as they run their successful custom motorcycle family business while dealing with the mounting tension between Paul Sr. and Paul Jr. The show will also feature the Teutuls struggling to expand the company during a challenging economy, heading to Anchorage to build a bike in honor of Alaska's 50 Years of Statehood Celebration, and continuing to explain that they're based in the cold Orange County located in upstate New York, not the warm, exciting Californian one seen elsewhere on cable reality shows.
Style Her Famous, Season 3 (premieres Saturday, April 11 at 8PM ET/PT on The Style Network)
America's Next Top Model creative director Jay Manuel will return to host Style Her Famous' third season where he'll once again oversee the makeover of ordinary girls using their favorite celebrities as inspiration. Among the celebrities that will be used for inspiration on the show's third season will be Kate Hudson, Eva Mendes, Alicia Keys, Keira Knightley and Kate Winslet.
Groomer Has It, Season 2 (premieres Saturday, April 11 at 9PM ET/PT on Animal Planet)
Groomer Has It's second season will once again feature a group of groomers as they live together in a loft apartment in Los Angeles, CA while competing against one another in a series of grooming challenges designed to test their skills as they compete for the title of "Groomer of the Year" and a mobile dog salon. Ah, a salon on wheels, such is the fancy life of a dog groomer.
Doing DaVinci (premieres Monday, April 13 at 10PM ET/PT)
Despite being dead for several hundred years, Leonardo DaVinci joins the ranks of Danny Bonaduce, RuPaul and Tommy Lee in receiving their own reality show. Doing DaVinci will feature four designers and builders attempting to build military weapons that DaVinci designed but never constructed. An armored tank, multi-cannon machine gun, a self-propelled cart will be among the devices constructed.
College Life (premieres Monday, April 13 at 10:30PM ET/PT)
College Life will consist of a group of freshmen attending University of Wisconsin-Madison as they chronicle their daily lives, along with all the drama and hard-partying that goes along with it. After initially approving of the idea to film the MTV show at the school, the University of Wisconsin withdrew its supportafter seeing early footage that emphasized the school's parties over its studies and allegedly didn't accurately portray what the life of a college student was. Really, University of Wisconsin? Really?
Deadliest Catch, Season 5 (premieres Tuesday, April 14 at 9PM ET/PT on Discovery)
Deadliest Catch will once again follow the Northwestern, Time Bandit, Cornelia Marie and Wizard as they once again brave the high seas for another season of crab fishing. However, in addition to the usual torubles that come with the business, Deadliest Catch's fifth season will also feature footage of the rescue efforts for the Katmai, a ship that runs into serious trouble that tragically cost seven of the boat's fishermen their lives in the icy Bering Sea.
Out of the Wild: The Alaska Experiment (premieres Tuesday, April 14 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery)
There's nothing like a month-long hike across the Alaskan wilderness to get the blood pumping! Out of the Wild will feature nine amateur hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts as they look to channel their inner Survivorman when they are left in the harsh Alaskan environment to survive and find civilization after they are given only three days of training in basic survival skills as well as a rudimentary map, compass and a few basic tools. A second reality show should be given to the lawyers who wrote up Discovery's liability waivers for the show.
Nanny 911, season 4 (premieres Saturday, April 19 at 9PM ET/PT on CMT)
Nanny 911's fourth season -- the show's first new episodes in several years in the first produced for CMT -- will continue to feature Nanny Deb as she travels from house to house and helps parents to control the minions they call their children. However, now that the show airs exclusively on CMT, the bulk of Deb's encouragement will be uttered using differing iterations of the phrase "Git 'er done!"
Cake Boss (premieres Sunday, April 19 on TLC)
Because one cake-building show wasn't enough for cable television, TLC will roll Cake Boss, which will feature master baker Buddy Maestro and his family-run Carlo's Bakery in Hoboken, NJ. In addition to building a variety of over-complicated pastries, the show will also feature Maestro running his bakery and dealing with the everyday complications of delivering the complex cakes.
Build It Bigger (premieres Monday, April 20 at 10PM ET/PT on Science Channel)
Professional architect Danny Forster returns for a new season of examples when "bigger" is truly "better" as he breaks down the unique architectural challenges behind some of the world's largest and most complex construction projects. Among the huge projects Forster will visit will be a widening of the Panama Canal, the construction Dallas Cowboys' new three-million-square-foot stadium, and the further inflation of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones' ego.
The Phone (premieres Tuesday, April 21 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
Ever wonder what Phone Booth would have been like if it starred Justin Timberlake instead of Keifer Sutherland. No? Well Timberlake apparently did, and he's rich, so deal with it. Each episode of the Timberlake-produced The Phone will feature four unknowing strangers who are surprised with a phone call, paired together, and led though a series of mental and physical challenges by a mysterious voice as they try to win the grand prize of up to $50,000.
New York Goes to Work (premieres Monday, May 4 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
For everyone who's been clamoring for Tiffany "New York" Pollard to get a real job, this is probably as close as you're gonna get, unfortunately. New York Goes to Work will feature the VH1 reality star as she embarks on a new viewer-chosen odd job each week. If Pollard is able to impress her employers she'll get a $5,000 bonus. However, if she quits, fails or gets fired from her job, she'll receive nothing.
The Fashion Show (premieres Thursday, May 7 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
One would think that when if you're blatantly ripping off the format of a show that's departing your network, you would at least come up with a snappy title. That being said, The Fashion Show, Bravo's obvious attempt to replicate Project Runway, will feature 15 designers as they put their designs up against one another. However, unlike Runway, home viewer votes will decide who will win the competition and receive $125,000 and the "opportunity" to release their own clothing line and share some of the profits with Bravo.
Charm School, Season 3 (premieres Monday, May 11 at 9PM ET/PT on VH1)
With VH1's Charm School franchise is running through "headmistresses" so quickly you'd think the job required them to date Brett Michaels. The show's third season -- dubbed Charm School with Ricki Lake -- will feature the former talk show host bringing her own personal flair to a group of former Real Chance of Love and Rock of Love Bus contestants. Lake will also take a different approach with the girls by having them take on real responsibilities at non-profit organizations for their challenges instead of their usual routines of drinking excessively on camera in a bikini.
The Real Housewives of New Jersey (premieres Tuesday, May 12 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Take The Real Housewives of New York, drive it across the George Washington Bridge, put on a Giants jersey, crack some Italian mob jokes over the Springsteen record playing in the background and voila! The Real Housewives of New Jersey will represent the fourth iteration of Bravo's The Real Housewives franchise and will feature a pair of sisters and their sister-in-law as three of the five housewives participating in the show. Tony Soprano said it best, you gotta keep it in the family.
The Bachelorette, Season 5 (premieres Monday, May 18 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
Following DeAnna Pappas' humiliating rejection of Jason Mesnick, and Mesnick's subsequent public dumping of his fiance Melissa Rycroft, new The Bachelorette star Jillian Harris -- another Mesnick dumpee who finished The Bachelor's fourteenth-season as the second-runner-up -- can probably do anything short of murder and still come up as the most popular The Bachelor/The Bachelorette star in recent memory. However, enough speculation for the time being, let's all just watch everything play out and try not to get our hearts broken again.
So You Think You Can Dance, Season 5 (premieres Thursday, May 21 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
The show that executive producer Nigel Lythgoe bolted American Idol for returns for its fifth season, featuring a new group of dancers looking to be come America's next big dancing star. However, by the time the show actually premieres Idol may have already changed its judging rules so much that dancing is factored into the judges' decisions and the two shows are almost indestiguishable from one another.
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Posted by: John Bracchitta on Friday, March 06, 2009 - 05:33 PM EST
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TLC has decided against pursuing a reality series starring Nadya Suleman, the controversial California mother who gave birth to octuplets last month despite already having six previous children.
"TLC is not pursuing any program at this time with Nadya Suleman," network president Eileen O'Neill announced in a Tuesday night statement. "We wish the family well."
Last week, O'Neill had confirmed that several production companies affiliated with TLC had contacted Suleman about the possibility of developing a reality series.
"We're certainly watching [Suleman's] story unfold," O'Neill told Entertainment Weekly at the time. "There are a lot of decisions that go into greenlighting a family for any of our shows. What kind of characters are they? How would they come across on TV?"
O'Neill also acknowledged TLC viewers are "pretty vocal" and added there would be a "waiting period" to see if a reality series starring Suleman and her kids made "good sense" for the network.
She didn't have to wait too long to receive a response, as TLC's website has been inundated with posts from viewers upset that the network was considering developing a series starring Suleman and her children -- all of whom were conceived via in vitro treatments.
In addition, reality producer Mike Fleiss called Suleman's story "too radioactive" for even him to touch; while The Hills villain Spencer Pratt said the idea was "more of a horror film than a reality show."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 - 09:48 AM EST
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CBS is reportedly considering putting a reality television spin on the demolition derby.
The network has ordered the pilot for a Wipeout-like reality competition series that will follow contestants as they drive cars through an obstacle course designed for automobiles, The Hollywood Reporter reported Tuesday.
Currently called Thunder Road, each episode would feature two teams competing to complete a course featuring a variety of "challenging" and "perilous" obstacles, according to The Reporter.
Thunder Road is being created by Scott Messick and Justin Hochberg, with Messick and McG serving as the project's executive producers. McG's previous reality credentials include The CW's The Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll and its second season, Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious.
Thunder Road is one of several reality projects CBS currently has in the works, along with the Magical Elves-produced Arranged Marriage; the Secret Millionaire-like Undercover Boss; the Mike Fleiss-produced There Goes the Neighborhood; and the Jeff Probst-created Live Like You're Dying.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, February 17, 2009 - 02:27 PM EST
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New American Idol Rewind third-season episodes -- which will document the Fox mega-hit's 2005 fourth season -- will begin airing in syndication on Saturday, February 28.
In addition, TV Guide Network will continue to air weekly encore broadcasts of the series in the Fridays at 8PM ET/PT timeslot.
Each one-hour American Idol Rewind episode includes performances and results from original Idol broadcasts; never-before-seen previously shot footage; additional behind the scenes facts and details; new footage that focuses on how contestants got through the competition; and present-day interviews with finalists.
Some of the new footage featured in American Idol Rewind's upcoming episodes will include Carrie Underwood and Vonzell Solomon performing a duet during Hollywood Week's group challenge and Bo Bice paying tribute to his grandfather with an a cappella rendition of "Proud To Be An American."
In addition, Bice and fellow former fourth-season finalists Anthony Fedorov, Mikalah Gordon, Constantine Maroulis and Jessica Sierra will reflect on their Idol journey.
American Idol Rewind's third season premiered in September and documented the show's 2004 third season.
The syndicated series is produced by Idol producers FremantleMedia North America and distributed by Trifecta Entertainment.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, February 17, 2009 - 12:22 PM EST
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Reality TV producer Mike Fleiss has produced more than his share of controversial reality projects over the years, but even he doesn't want any part of a new reality concept involving new octuplet mother Nadya Suleman and her 14 children.
"Yeah, don't call me. It's too radioactive," Fleiss -- whose previous reality credits include Who Wants to Marry a Multi-Millionaire?, Are You Hot?, The Will, and Superstar USA -- told Extra about a reality show starring Suleman and her kids.
"I don't think anyone reputable will ever do this," he added.
Last week, TLC president Eileen O'Neill confirmed that several production companies affiliated with the network have contacted the 33-year-old Suleman -- who gave birth to octuplets last month -- about the possibility of developing a reality series.
However Suleman's story has received a lot of negative media attention and public scrutiny since she already had six other children under the age of 7 before having the octuplets. In addition, all of her children were conceived via in vitro treatments and Suleman also receives food stamps.
"I don't think there's ever gonna be a market for her in mainstream media because most people think it's disgusting," Fleiss told Extra.
In addition to Fleiss, The Hills villain Spencer Pratt said he also wouldn't go near Suleman's proposed series.
"It's more of a horror film than a reality show," Pratt told Extra.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, February 16, 2009 - 04:18 PM EST
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Nadya Suleman and her 14 controversial kids may be getting their own Jon & Kate Plus 8-like reality series.
TLC president Eileen O'Neill has confirmed several production companies affiliated with the network have contacted the 33-year-old Californian -- who gave birth to octuplets last month -- about the possibility of developing a reality series, Entertainment Weekly reported Wednesday.
"We're certainly watching [Suleman's] story unfold," O'Neill told EW. "There are a lot of decisions that go into greenlighting a family for any of our shows. What kind of characters are they? How would they come across on TV?"
Suleman's story has received a lot of media attention and public scrutiny since she already had six other children under the age of 7 before having the the octuplets. All of her children were conceived via in vitro treatments and Suleman also receives food stamps.
TLC viewers have apparently been vocal on the network's website about boycotting any show that might feature the large family.
"Our audience is pretty vocal," O'Neill told EW. "There is a [waiting] period here to see if there's something that we as a network feel makes good sense. There are so many things going on in that woman's life right now -- we're all waiting to see what happens next."
TLC seems like the obvious network for any project involving Suleman since it is already home to both Jon & Kate Plus 8 and 17 Kids and Counting. The network also expected to premiere Table for Twelve -- another reality series about a New Jersey couple with sextuplets and two sets of twins -- sometime next month.
In addition to shopping the reality series, Suleman is also reportedly fielding offers to appear in a film documentary or write her own book.
"People who made the offers are very serious," Suleman publicist Michael Furtney told EW. "As soon as we can get Nadya to sit down and focus on them, she will certainly take advantage of them."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, February 16, 2009 - 01:45 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Friday, January 30, 2009 - 12:25 PM EST
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Fox Reality Channel has announced former American Idol fifth-season finalist Ace Young and Skating with Celebrities runner-up Jillian Reynolds will helm American Idol Extra's upcoming installment.
"We're delighted to have Jillian Reynolds and Ace Young join us as the host and co-host for Season 4 of American Idol Extra," said Fox Reality Channel programming executive Bob Boden.
The American Idol companion series' fourth season will premiere Thursday, March 26 at 7PM ET/PT, and each episode will include "the first exclusive sit-down interview" with that week's eliminated eighth-season finalist.
In addition, American Idol Extra's fourth season will be the first to film from the same stage as the Fox mega-hit.
"American Idol has become a cornerstone of American pop-culture and we are proud to be the exclusive cable and satellite network to broadcast straight from the Idol stage," said Boden.
Young and Reynolds will replace American Idol Extra third-season hosts JD Roberto, former Idol sixth-season finalist Gina Glocksen and former fourth-season finalist Constantine Maroulis.
While Roberto and Glocksen will no longer be involved with the show, Maroulis will return as a "special field correspondent," according to Fox Reality Channel.
American Idol Extra will air in the Thursdays at 7PM and 10PM ET/PT timeslots on Fox Reality Channel in the nine weeks leading to Idol's eighth-season finale on Fox.
American Idol Extra is produced by Idol producers 19 Entertainment and FremantleMedia, and is not-to-be-confused with TV Guide Channel's American Idol Rewind companion series.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 - 05:20 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 - 08:45 PM EST
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Former The Simple Life star Nicole Ritchie has denied reports that she's shopping a new reality show about her life as a mother to to various networks.
"[The report is] unsubstantiated. This is false reporting," Ritchie's representative told OK! Magazine in a Friday report.
Last week, Star Magazine reported that Ritchie had recently been pitching a reality project that would also feature her husband Joel Madden and the couple's one-year-old daughter Harlow to studio executives, according to DigitalSpy.com.
"Nicole wants the world to know what it's like to be a working mom with a rock star boyfriend," a source reportedly told Star at the time.
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Posted by: Reality TV World staff on Monday, January 26, 2009 - 04:54 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Wednesday, January 21, 2009 - 07:56 PM EST
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With 2008 drawing to a close, it's time to take a look back at the year that was. The following is Reality TV World's 2008 Reality TV Year In Review, a month-by-month review of some of the past year's reality TV headlines, highlights, lowlights, and milestones.
January
- MTV renews its A Shot at Love serialized reality dating series a day after Tila Tequila and first-season winner Bobby Banhart go public with the end of their relationship. Tequila and Banhart remained at odds over which one of them was responsible for the split.
- CBS reveals the identities of Survivor: Micronesia's cast, which includes 10 former castaways considered to be "Favorites" pitted against 10 new castaways who consider themselves "Fans." CBS also orders two more editions of Survivor and signs long-time host Jeff Probst to a new agreement that will see him continue to helm the series.
- Former America's Next Top Model first-season contestant Elyse Sewell has a physical altercation with her boyfriend -- Shins rocker Martin Crandall -- which lands both of them behind bars on domestic-violence charges. The charges against both were subsequently dropped.
- J Records drops American Idol fifth-season winner Taylor Hicks from its roster two weeks after the label had dropped second-season champ Ruben Studdard. Hicks subsequently describes the split as a mutual decision between himself and the Sony BMG label.
- Former American Idol fourth-season finalist Jessica Sierra is sent to a yearlong stint at an in-house drug treatment facility after her December arrest on charges of disorderly intoxication, resisting arrest without violence and probation violation. She subsequently receives a 45-day travel permit so she can immediately begin receiving treatment at California's Pasadena Recovery Center.
- MyNetworkTV and Fox Reality Channel release a statement confirming the October death of Nathan Thomas Clutter, one of 11 singles in the networks' upcoming Paradise Hotel revival. While the networks claimed Clutter was killed in an unspecified climbing accident that occurred several weeks after the show's production ended, a police report obtained by Reality TV World had concluded his death was an apparent suicide.
- ABC orders a new non-celebrity The Mole edition four years after the show's most recent installment-- Celebrity Mole Hawaii -- aired in early 2004.
- RCA Records parts ways with American Idol fifth-season runner-up Katharine McPhee.
- Little People, Big World patriarch Matt Roloff is found not guilty of drunken driving stemming from his arrest last June.
- ABC confirms it has ordered a new The Bachelorette edition -- the first since the show's third season aired nearly three years ago -- for broadcast in the summer. Twice-rejected eleventh-season The Bachelor bachelorette DeAnna Pappas is subsequently tapped to star in The Bachelorette's return.
- Former The Simple Life starlet Nicole Richie and her boyfriend Joel Madden welcome their first child.
- The Directors Guild of America reaches a contract deal with major film and TV studios, leading the Writers Guild of America and top Hollywood studios to resume negotiations toward ending the writers strike that had been ongoing since early November.
- NBC plucks Nashville Star from its USA sister network, which had aired the first five seasons of the reality competition series.
- Survivor villain Jon "Jonny Fairplay" Dalton and former America's Next Top Model fourth-season finalist Michelle Deighton welcome their first child three weeks after he proposed marriage and she accepted.
- "Newly Dating Couple" Rachel Rosales and TK Erwin win The Amazing Race's twelfth season, claiming the show's $1 million grand prize.
- Dancing with the Stars professional Louis van Amstel claims American Idol judge Paula Abdul told him she wants to compete on the ABC reality ballroom dancing competition.
Premieres: The Biggest Loser, Season 5 (1/1); Wife Swap, Season 4 (1/2); Supernanny, Season 4 (1/2); Make Me a Supermodel (1/2); The Celebrity Apprentice (1/3); How To Look Good Naked (1/4); American Gladiators (1/6); Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann (1/7); Jon & Kate Plus 8, Season 3 (1/7); Dirty Jobs, Season 4 (1/8); LA Ink, Season 2 (1/8); Ghost Hunters International (1/9); Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew (1/10); Scott Baio is 46... and Pregnant (1/13); Rock of Love with Bret Michaels, Season 2 (1/13); American Idol, Season 7 (1/15); Mythbusters, Season 6 (1/16); My Fair Brady... Maybe Baby? (1/20); The Millionaire Matchmaker (1/22); The Moment of Truth (1/23); Gone Country (1/25); Trading Spaces, Season 8 (1/26).
February
- Vincent "Big *****" Pastore resigns as a The Celebrity Apprentice candidate less than a year after he quit as a Dancing with the Stars fourth-season celebrity participant.
- The Writers Guild of America and the Hollywood studios reach a tentative deal -- which is subsequently approved by members of the writers' union, ending the three-month strike.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch loses an appeal of his January 2006 tax evasion conviction and is required to serve the remainder of his 51-month sentence.
- American Idol fifth-season runner-up Katharine McPhee weds boyfriend Nick Cokas. Fellow former Idol 5 finalists Kellie Pickler and Mandisa Hundley are in attendance to watch the 23-year-old McPhee marry the 42-year-old Cokas.
- ABC taps Matt Grant to be The Bachelor's twelfth-season star, making him the first international star in the reality dating series' history.
- Dancing with the Stars professional Cheryl Burke and her boyfriend Matthew Lawrence end their romantic relationship after more than a year of dating.
- Former Meet the Barkers co-stars Shanna Moakler and Travis Barker finally have their August 2006 divorce filing finalized.
- American Idol fourth-season champ Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats" wins two Grammy awards, while former Idol fifth-season finalist Chris Daughtry sees his band Daughtry come up empty after receiving four nominations.
- American Idol ends its seventh-season audition process and reveals its Top 24 semifinalists. Judge Simon Cowell declines to predict a seventh-season champ.
- Dancing with the Stars professional Maksim Chmerkovskiy confirms he will not participate in the show's upcoming sixth season. Chmerkovskiy subsequently vows that he will be back for the show's seventh installment.
- Autism United demands an apology from CBS after the network shows Big Brother: 'Til Death Do You Part houseguest Adam Jasinski refer to people with autism as "retards" during a show broadcast. United Autism Foundation founder Olaf Hampel subsequently apologized and stated he employed Jasinski for three months prior to his Big Brother participation but had since let him go.
- Dinner: Impossible star Robert Irvine is accused of lying about numerous aspects of his life -- from his culinary education and experience to the identities of some of his more famous clientele.
- A&E restarts production on new Dog the Bounty Hunter fifth-season episodes after it was suspended in November following a taped phone conversation in which Duane "Dog" Chapman could be heard repeatedly using the N-word.
- Big Brother: 'Til Death Do You Part houseguest Neil Garcia unexpectedly leaves the Big Brother house and the reason behind his exit is not revealed.
- The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences tentatively agrees to add a new category recognizing reality television hosts.
- Boyd Coddington, a car-customizing legend and star of TLC's American Hot Rod reality series, dies at the age of 63.
Premieres: Paradise Hotel 2 (2/4); Survivor: Micronesia (2/7); Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew (2/7); Big Brother: 'Til Death Do You Part (2/12); The Baby Borrowers (2/18); Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious (2/18); America's Next Top Model, Season 10 (2/20).
March
- Eric O'Hara, the 24-year-old stepbrother of The Hills co-star Heidi Montag, dies after he falls from a Colorado hotel's icy roof while helping to remove snow.
- Food Network decides against renewing the contract of Robert Irvine after an investigation found the Dinner: Impossible star cooked-up several lies about his culinary experience.
- Former Jackass and Dr. Steve-O star Steven "Steve-O" Glover is placed under citizen's arrest at his Hollywood apartment complex on suspicion of vandalism and drug possession after he was filmed putting holes in the wall of a neighbor's apartment. Steve-O is subsequently charged with felony possession of cocaine and admitted to the self-described "looney bin" at Thalians Mental Health Center following an alleged suicide attempt.
- American Idol seventh-season semifinalist David Hernandez is revealed to have previously worked as a male stripped at Dick's Cabaret in Phoenix, AZ, but producers allow him to remain in the competition. While Hernandez claims he is "not really concerned" about his stripper past, he subsequently becomes the first finalist cut from Idol's seventh season.
- Christian Siriano wins Project Runway's fourth-season.
- Survivor host Jeff Probst reveals he and former Survivor: Vanuatu castaway Julie Berry have ended their romantic relationship after more than three years of dating.
- Photos of The Hills star Audrina Patridge posing nude when she was 19-years-old in an attempt to appear in Playboy surface online. Patridge subsequently claims the pictures were intended to be "artistic," not "provocative."
- Dancing with the Stars second-season champs Cheryl Burke and Drew Lachey deny a tabloid report that they had an affair during the show's recently concluded North American tour.
- Former Dancing with the Stars third-season celebrity participant Sara Evans gets engaged to former University of Alabama quarterback Jay Barker.
- The family of John Graziano files a lawsuit against Hulk, Linda and Nick Hogan for an August 2007 crash in which Nick was driving his father's 1998 Toyota Supra when he lost control and hit a raised median, spinning the vehicle and causing its rear end to strike a palm tree. Graziano is expected to need lifelong care.
- American Idol fourth-season champ Carrie Underwood and Gossip Girls actor Chace Crawford call it quits on their romantic relationship after several months of dating.
- Tyra Banks denies a report that she plans to leave as America Next Top Model's lead judge for the show's thirteenth season.
- Dancing with the Stars host Tom Bergeron becomes the second person affiliated with the show to claim that American Idol judge Paula Abdul has expressed interest in competing on the ABC reality series.
- America's Got Talent judge Piers Morgan defeats country star Trace Adkins to claim The Celebrity Apprentice title.
- Former third-season The Biggest Loser contestants Marty Wolff and Amy Hildreth get married in Charleston, SC.
Premieres: Oprah's Big Give (3/2); Here Come the Newlyweds (3/2); Little People, Big World, Season 3 (3/3); The Real Housewives of New York City (3/4); High School Reunion, Season 4 (3/5); Ax Men (3/9); Beauty and the Geek, Season 5 (3/11); Gene Simmons Family Jewels, Season 3 (3/11); Top Chef: Chicago (3/12); Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp (3/13); Flip This House, Season 4 (3/15); Dancing with the Stars, Season 6 (3/17); The Bachelor: London Calling (3/17); The Hills, Season 3 (3/24).
April
- American Idol seventh-season finalist David Cook is hospitalized after he experiences heart palpitations following a live performance episode. He is subsequently treated for high blood pressure and released.
- NBC announces that home viewers will have the opportunity to determine one of The Biggest Loser: Couples' three finalists immediately following the reality weight-loss series' penultimate fifth-season broadcast. Trainers Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels subsequently criticize the twist.
- Lifetime Networks and The Weinstein Company announce an unexpected five-year deal that will bring Project Runway from Bravo to Lifetime beginning with the reality series' sixth season. Bravo's NBC Universal parent company files a lawsuit against The Weinstein Company in response to the deal. Bravo also schedules Project Runway's fifth season -- and final Bravo edition -- to debut in July.
- With eight finalists remaining, American Idol judges Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson predict a David Cook versus David Archuleta finale.
- CBS cancels Secret Talents from the Stars, bringing the America's Got Talent-esque reality competition series for celebrities to an end after only one poorly-rated broadcast.
- ESPN cancels The Contender after airing its second and third seasons, however the show's producers anounce they are trying to cut a deal for it to continue on another network.
- CBS and Sony announce Survivor's Fall 2008 seventeenth season will be the first to film in widescreen high-definition format.
- Alison Vincent wins The Biggest Loser: Couples and becomes the reality weight-loss series' first ever female champ in five seasons.
- After being ousted as an American Idol seventh-season finalist, Kristy Lee Cook reveals she and boyfriend Andy Dobner have been engaged since March.
- Former Star Search judge Naomi Judd calls Jeff Archuleta -- the father of American Idol seventh-season finalist David Archuleta -- the "worst stage dad." Jeff refutes the claim and instead described himself as a "musical consultant," not a "stage parent."
- American Idol sixth-season champ Jordin Sparks cancels three weekend performances after experiencing vocal problems described as an "acute vocal chord hemorrhage" that could be career-threatening. Sparks subsequently confirms she did have a hemorrhage, but denies it was ever as serious as initially reported.
- Food Network taps The Next Iron Chef winner Michael Symon to host Dinner: Impossible after the network decided against renewing the contract of lying former host Robert Irvine.
- American Idol judge Paula Abdul confirms recent reports that she's interested in competing on Dancing with the Stars.
- The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences approves a new Emmy Award category for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program and announces the category's first award will be presented at the 60th annual Primetime Emmy Awards in September.
- Former Jackass and Dr. Steve-O star Steven "Steve-O" Glover pleads not guilty to a felony cocaine possession charge stemming from a March arrest.
- Adam Jasinski defeats Ryan Quicksall to win Big Brother's ninth season. Jasinski subsequently states he regrets saying that children with autism are "retarded."
- Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List star Kathy Griffin reveals she and billionaire Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak are no longer dating.
- Dancing with the Stars sixth-season celebrity participant Cristian de la Fuente injures his arm during a live samba routine with Cheryl Burke. De La Fuente subsequently sees a specialist to assess the arm injury and continues in the competition.
- The CW executives decide to place Beauty and the Geek on hiatus following the show's fifth-season finale.
- A report that Dancing with the Stars third-season partners Mario Lopez and Karina Smirnoff have ended their romantic relationship surfaces, however the couple subsequently denies there is any truth to it.
- Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt insist a sex tape featuring The Hills Lauren Conrad and her ex-beau Jason Wahler did in fact exist at one point despite having never seen it. Wahler subsequently denies the tape's existence.
Premieres: Hell's Kitchen, Season 4 (4/1); Step It Up & Dance (4/3); Can You Duet (4/14); Deadliest Catch, Season 4 (4/15); Work Out, Season 3 (4/15); Farmer Wants a Wife (4/30).
May
- Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz and their Magical Elves production company confirm they will not follow Project Runway to Lifetime after Bravo airs its fifth and final season of the the reality series.
- Dancing with the Stars fifth-season partners Sabrina Bryan and Mark Ballas end their romantic relationship but remain friends.
- The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman star Andy Baldwin and Donald Trump's ex-wife Marla Maples break-up after dating for a few months.
- Former Hogan Knows Best co-star Nick Hogan is sentenced to eight months in jail after he pleaded no contest to causing a crash that seriously injured his friend John Graziano. Nick and his dad Hulk are subsequently recorded having a phone conversation in which both verbally bash Graziano.
- American Idol producers disallow David Archuleta's father Jeff from helping his 17-year-old son prepare for the show backstage after he reportedly meddles with the lyrics prior to one of David's live performances.
- Parvati Shallow wins Survivor: Micronesia Fans vs. Favorites.
- The Bachelor: London Calling star Matt Grant presents his final rose and a marriage proposal to Shayne Lamas -- and she accepts both -- during the reality dating series' twelfth season finale. Lamas and Grant subsequently state they plan on getting married despite the show's horrendous track record.
- ABC Entertainment president Stephen McPherson claims that while the network was interested in renewing Oprah's Big Give for a second season, Oprah Winfrey decided she wasn't interested in continuing the show.
- Whitney Thompson wins America's Next Top Model's tenth season and becomes the first full-figured model to win The CW reality series.
- Former American Idol seventh-season semifinalist Luke Menard is diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system.
- Olympic gold medalist figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and her professional partner Mark Ballas win Dancing with the Stars' sixth-season title.
- David Cook beats David Archuleta to win American Idol's seventh-season crown. Cook subsequently signs a recording contract with 19 Recordings/RCA Records and his first single -- "The Time of My Life" -- debuts at No. 3 on Billboard's Hot 100 single sales chart.
- American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe states he is against judge Paula Abdul competing as a Dancing with the Stars celebrity participant.
- Two-time Dancing with the Stars professional champ Julianne Hough sees her self-titled debut album drop at No. 3 on The Billboard 200 and at No. 1 on the Top Country album sales charts.
- Word that American Idol second-season runner-up Clay Aiken has impregnated record producer and friend Jaymes Foster via artificial insemination emerges.
Premieres: American Gladiators, Season 2 (5/12); The Bachelorette, Season 4 (5/19); So You Think You Can Dance, Season 4 (5/22); Last Comic Standing, Season 6 (5/22).
June
- Lawyers for the Hogan family file a civil lawsuit ask a judge to rule that recorded telephone conversations of inmates are not public records after several salacious phone conversations between imprisoned Nick Hogan and his family were obtained by the media last month via Florida's public records law. Hulk subsequently claims the nasty comments heard on the recordings were said to lift Nick's spirits.
- Original Survivor winner Richard Hatch appeals his January 2006 tax evasion conviction to the U.S. Supreme Court.
- Former Jackass and Dr. Steve-O star Steven "Steve-O" Glover pleads guilty to a felony cocaine possession charge stemming from a March arrest.
- Josh Waring, the 19-year-old son of The Real Housewives of Orange County star Lauri Waring, is arrested and charged with possession of heroin and ecstasy with intent to sell.
- The Bachelorette lovebirds Trista and Ryan Sutter deny rumors that they plan on divorcing.
- American Idol seventh-season runner-up David Archuleta inks a recording contract with 19 Recordings/Jive Records.
- Dancing with the Stars third-season lovebirds Mario Lopez and Karina Smirnoff finally confirm their romantic relationship is over. I Survived a Japanese Game Show contestant Megan Cooper subsequently claims she and Lopez were secretly dating while he was still with Smirnoff.
- Survivor host Jeff Probst claims that pre-production for Survivor: Gabon -- Earth's Last Eden has already encountered its fair share of problems, including delayed shipping and run-ins with dangerous wildlife.
- Tori & Dean: Inn Love co-stars Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott welcome their second child and mourn the death of Mimi LaRue, Spelling's famous dog.
- Stephanie Izzard wins Top Chef: Chicago and becomes the culinary competition series' first-ever female champ.
- The Bachelor: London Calling star Matt Grant moves out of Shayne Lamas' condo but says it was just so the two could have some space and insists they are still dating.
- American Idol judge Paula Abdul and restaurateur J.T. Torregiani call it quits on their romantic relationship.
- Former Dancing with the Stars third-season celebrity participant Sara Evans ties the knot with former University of Alabama quarterback Jay Barker.
- American Idol fifth-season champ Taylor Hicks signs a distribution agreement with Vanguard Records for his next album, which will be released on Hicks' own record label: Modern Whomp Records.
- American Idol sixth-season runner-up Blake Lewis is dropped by Arista Records but characterizes the label's decision as a "good thing."
- American Idol second-season champ Ruben Studdard and Surata Zuri McCants wed in a suburb of Birmingham, AL.
- Former American Idol fifth-season finalist Paris Bennett -- who will turn 20 in August -- reveals she is expecting the birth of her first child. The baby's father is not identified.
- Former American Idol seventh-season finalist Kristy Lee Cook signs a recording contract with 19 Recordings/Arista Nashville.
Premieres: Bridezillas, Season 5 (6/1); The Next Food Network Star, Season 4 (6/1); The Mole, Season 5 (6/2); Legally Blonde The Musical: The Search for Elle Woods (6/2); 30 Days, Season 3 (6/3); She's Got the Look (6/4); Meerkat Manor: The Next Generation (6/6); HGTV Design Star, Season 3 (6/8); Ice Road Truckers, Season 2 (6/8); Master of Dance (6/9); Nashville Star, Season 6 (6/9); Celebrity Circus (6/11); Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, Season 4 (6/12); Gene Simmons Family Jewels, Season 4 (6/15); Intervention, Season 5 (6/16); Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, Season 3 (6/17);
Flipping Out, Season 2 (6/17); Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew, Season 2 (6/19); Wipeout (6/24); I Survived a Japanese Game Show (6/24); America's Got Talent, Season 3 (6/24); The Baby Borrowers (6/25); Shear Genius, Season 2 (6/25).
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio and Steve Rogers on Wednesday, December 31, 2008 - 08:19 PM EST
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With the holiday season coming to a close and the days getting cold and the economy in the dumps, it's easy to dwell on the negative. However with a full slate of reality series -- including the return of several longtime favorites and the debut of several much-buzzed about new shows -- how bad can it really be?
Whether you're looking for the new spinoff of The Hills, a makeover show for stray dogs, a single father as a Bachelor, or the return of American Idol, the winter season has more than enough shows to keep everyone busy until the days start warming up in the spring.
Not all of this winter's reality shows have formal premiere dates yet, but the following is Reality TV World's 2009 Reality TV Winter Preview, highlighting all of the currently known shows that will be premiering in coming months as well as where and when to tune in.
In addition, some shows that debuted recently -- including The Contender, A Double Shot at Love, Intervention, Manhunters, Momma's Boys, Party Monsters: Cabo, and Top Chef: New York will air new episodes during early 2009.
The City (premieres Monday, December 29 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
First there was Laguna Beach. Then MTV took a drive over to The Hills. Now it's time to hop on a plane, because it's time for The City. MTV's new reality series will feature former The Hills star Whitney Port as she packs her things and heads to New York City as she attempts to make her name in the fashion industry and create a new life for herself. Start the countdown for the series' first fake elopement.
Bromance (premieres Monday, December 29 at 9PM ET/PT on MTV)
MTV is really going out of their way to find new friends for "hard up" celebrities. After recently finding Paris Hilton her "new BFF," the network is now giving The Hills hanger-on Brody Jenner an opportunity to find a new dude to hang out with. After moving to Hollywood and having their trust tested in challenges from skydiving to handling the paparrazi, contestants will vye for alone time with Jenner before he eliminates someone in a "Hot Tub elimination ceremony" at the end of each episode. Okay, this is officially getting weird...
Underdog to Wonderdog (premieres Saturday, January 3 at 8PM ET/PT on Animal Planet)
With numerous makeover shows on TV providing fresh starts for men, women, children, houses, and even cars, isn't it about time that someone decided to turn Droopy into Snoopy? On each episode Underdog to Wonderdog, one down on their luck mutt at a shelter is taken in by the show's "Wonder Team" and rescued, groomed and rehabilitated before being placed in a loving home and given a custom-built dog house as well. As long as that house doesn't come with a mortgage, those dogs should be all set.
Superstars of Dance (premieres Sunday January 4 at 9PM ET/PT on NBC)
American Idol creator Simon Fuller and former Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe already have Fox's So You Think You Can Dance for the amateurs, so why not give the pros a shot as well. Superstars of Dance will feature professional dancers from eight countries as they compete against each other to determine the world's best dancers. The show's champion will go on to battle the Klingons for interstellar dominance.
Rock of Love Bus With Bret Michaels (premieres Sunday, January 4 at 9PM ET/PT on VH1)
Former Poison frontman Bret Michaels takes his search for love on the road for the third season of his popular Rock of Love series. Flanked by two buses -- a pink one filled with blondes and a blue one containing brunettes -- the girls will take part in challenges based on Michaels' experiences on the road throughout his rock and roll life as they seek to win over the rocker.
Ultimate Recipe Showdown, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, January 4 at 9PM ET/PT on Food Network)
Who said cooking shows had to only focus on the fancy foods? Guy Fieri is back for a second season of Ultimate Recipe Showdown, which will once again feature four amateur cooks each week as they create a dish in one of six delicious categories -- comfort food, burgers, cakes, hot and spicy, desserts, or hometown favorites. The winner of each show will win $25,000 and a chance to have their dish featured nationwide on T.G.I. Fridays menus -- because any chef will tell you they've made it big when they finally have a dish on a menu next to fried macaroni and cheese balls.
Confessions of a Teen Idol (premieres Sunday, January 4 at 8PM ET/PT on VH1)
Looking to exploit the careers of a new group of 1980's has-beens, VH1's new docu-reality show will feature such former "teen idols" as The Real World first-season star and MTV's The Grind host Eric Nies, former Beverly Hills 90210 actress Jamie Walters, former Baywatch actor Jeremy Jackson, and The Blue Lagoon star Christopher Atkins as they look to reclaim their fame in the new millennium. Good luck with that guys...
The Bachelor, Season 13 (premieres Monday, January 5 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
It's divorce, The Bachelor style. Season thirteen star Jason Mesnick will make The Bachelor history as he becomes the first single father bachelor the show has ever had. The show will also feature four bachelorettes who are single mothers as well. Maybe ABC should skip plans to have a live wedding special for the Mesnick and his mate and move forward with plans for an "awkward first family holiday plans together" special instead.
True Beauty (premieres Monday, January 5 at 10PM ET/PT on ABC)
Model-turned-Oprah-wannabe Tyra Banks and Punk'd prankster Ashton Kutcher have joined forces to turn the traditional beauty pageant concept on its head. After telling six women and four men that they are competing in a competition based solely on their physical appearance, contestants will secretly be judged on their "inner beauty" as well as they are put through scenarios to reveal hidden aspects of their character.
DietTribe (premieres Monday, January 5 at 10PM ET/PT on Lifetime)
No, it's not a misguided attempt at a weight-loss plan by Survivor. DietTribe will document five women who have made a commitment to lose weight together over the course of 90 days as they prepare for a wedding, and learn about the bad habits that can be caused by friendships and the proper ways to rectify them. Ironically enough, the weight-loss show to being produced by Pie Town Productions. Go figure...
Homeland Security USA (premieres Tuesday, January 6 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
Homeland Security USA will feature such government agencies as the Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship & Immigration Services, and the Secret Service as they work to secure America's borders, intercept illegal immigrants, and stop potential terrorists throughout the country. The show will have surely have at least one household tuning in every week, as George W. Bush's Tuesday nights will have much less on his plate come January 20.
The Biggest Loser: Couples, Season 2 (premieres Tuesday, January 6 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
NBC has clearly never heard of the phrase "absence makes the heart grow fonder." A mere three weeks after the finale of The Biggest Loser: Families, NBC will roll out the seventh edition of its successful weight loss reality show, which will feature an eclectic cast including the two oldest contestants, the youngest male contestant, the heaviest female contestant, and the heaviest contestant ever in the show's history.
Dirty Jobs, Season 5 (premieres Tuesday, January 6 at 9PM ET/PT on Discovery)
The world may never know exactly why Mike Rowe keeps coming back for more abuse every season as he delves into the most unsavory jobs imaginable. However, he's back for the show's fifth season, which will feature Rowe as he visits a bologna factory, plugs abandoned mines, makes glass, bands birds, and reports on the happenings of Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt, among other tasks. OK, we're just kidding about that last one.
The Real World: Brooklyn (premieres Wednesday, January 7 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
After beginning the show in "The Big Apple" nearly 17 years ago (and returning there nine years later), The Real World is coming back to its roots yet again, albeit across the East River this time. With eight housemates exploring New York City and volunteering in the community as they live together in a posh pad, expect the usual cocktail of shouting matches, hot tub romances, and drunken shenanigans that have led to the show's longer shelf life than the concept of playing music videos on former music video channel.
13: Fear is Real (premieres Wednesday, January 7 at 8PM on The CW)
This CW horror-theme reality series will feature, you guessed it, 13 contestants as they are pitted against each other in challenges based on situations from various horror movies. Contestants will be eliminated one-by-one until a winner is crowned and wins a -- yeah you guessed it again -- $66,666 grand prize.
The Exterminators (premieres Wednesday, January 7 at 10:30 PM ET/PT on A&E)
In an attempt to prove that even the most mundane jobs warrant a docu-reality series, A&E will roll out The Exterminators, which will focus on a Los Angeles pest removal company operated by Billy Bretherton, a former U.S. Air Force sergeant. A 15-year pest management industry veteran, Bretherton runs the business with his wife, brother Rick, and parents, who will all be featured on the show as well as they balance their business and personal lives. Highlights of the show will include each family member running into the nearest wall whenever someone turns the lights on too suddenly.
Howie Do It (premieres Friday, January 9 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
Prior to his career resurrection with Deal or No Deal, Howie Mandel may have been best known for his ability to blow up a surgical balloon on his head. So, given the circumstances, a network show featuring the comedian as he pulls hidden camera pranks on unsuspecting victims is something of an accomplishment for the funnyman.
Man vs. Wild, Season 3 (premieres Monday, January 12 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery)
Bear Grylls, vampire hunter? Among the destinations that the adventure expert will embark into for Man Vs. Wild's third season include Transylvania, as well as Belize, Turkey, the Yukon Peninsula, the Dominican Republic, and the Badlands of Oregon. Along the way, he will also come face-to-face with an array of dangers, including a killer bear, a deadly scorpion and a nine-foot boa constrictor.
American Idol, Season 8 (premieres Tuesday, January 13 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
Changes are the name of the game for the eighth season of the Fox reality juggernaut. Along with the inclusion of new fourth judge Kara DioGuardi, the show will also increase its number of semifinalists from 24 to 36 and utilize a "Wild Card" semifinals round for the first time since 2004. In another significant break from the show's tradition, Paula Abdul has also moved her traditional mid-season freak out to the pre-season.
Chopped (premieres Tuesday, January 13 10PM ET/PT on Food Network)
Former Queer Eye For the Straight Guy food and wine expert and Top Chef judge Ted Allen is back, and he's bringing the ingredients. For Chopped, Allen will provide four up-and-coming chefs with everyday ingredients, have them make a three course meal out of them, and eliminate them one by one until the final chef takes home the $10,000 grand prize. Isn't another way to decribe the act of taking everyday ingredients and making meals out of them just called "real life?"
Tool Academy (premieres Sunday, January 11 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
Keep on hammering Bob Vila, this show's not for you. Tool Academy will feature nine unsuspecting boyfriends who are led by their girlfriends into a competition that they think is searching for "Mr. Awesome." However, the boyfriends will quickly learn that they are actually entering "Tool Academy" where they will be schooled on honesty, fidelity, maturity and communication as they learn how to be better boyfriends. Ouch.
Randy Jackson Presents America's Best Dance Crew, Season 3 (premieres Thursday, January 15 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
Randy Jackson's name and host Mario Lopez return for a third season of the quickly fading MTV reality dance show, which will feature nine new dance crews will take to the stage and face brand new challenges designed to test their choreography and teamwork as they attempt to make it to the show's live season finale showdown.
Sober House (premieres Thursday, January 15 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
Following their stints on either of the first two seasons of Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, Sober House will feature six former Rehab participants -- Seth "Shifty" Binzer, Mary Carey, Nikki McKibbon, Rodney King, Steven Adler, and model/actress Amber Smith -- as they seek to transition out of a rehab facility and into the real world by spending three months living together in a supervised, sober environment with structure and rules. Also joining the show following its premiere will be Andy Dick, who never appeared on Celebrity Rehab but probably should have.
Treasure Quest (premieres Thursday, January 15 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery)
After their first show chronicling the above water exploits of crab fishermen on Deadliest Catch, Discovery goes underwater with Treasure Quest, which will follow the Odyssey Marine Exploration, the world's only publicly-traded company dedicated to deep ocean shipwreck exploration. Members of OME will search for valuable treasures using cutting edge technology while telling stories of the historic ships that account for some of the estimated 3 million shipwrecks around the world. Whether or not Bill Paxton's Titanic character will make a cameo appearance on the show remains unknown.
Will Work for Food (premieres Monday, January 19 at 8:30OM ET/PT on Food Network)
Watch out Mike Rowe, Adam Gertler's adding his name to the shows-featuring-someone-working-in-unsavory-jobs game -- and he's hungry. Will Work For Food will feature Gertler, a former fourth season The Next Food Network Star contestant, as he explores the little-known jobs in the culinary world and gives them a try. Some jobs that Gertler will undertake include taking honey from three million bees, sculpting ice with a chain saw, foraging for truffles, and digging a wine cave.
I Love Money, Season 2 (premieres Monday, January 26 at 9PM ET/PT on VH1)
VH1's aptly titled reality competition series featuring former contestants from Rock of Love, I Love New York, Flavor of Love, and Real Chance of Love returns for a second season, with 17 new contestants who will compete for a chance to win $250,000. With returning contestants such as Buckwild, Heat and Angelique, the show will undoubtedly exude a high class of behavior that is not seen elsewhere on television these days.
Hell's Kitchen, Season 5 (premieres Thursday, January 29 at 9PM ET/PT on Fox)
Universally known as being overly soft spoken and nice, Chef Gordan Ramsey returns to the kitchen with a new batch of chefs for the fifth season of Hell's Kitchen where he will calmly guide them through the ins and outs of working in a professional kitchen while maintaining a charming attitude at all times. In other news, the sky is green and the Detroit Lions are the best team in the NFL.
Toughest Cowboy (premieres Thursday, January 29 at 11PM ET/PT on Spike TV)
Reality mastermind Mark Burnett has tackled almost every concept imaginable, from stranding people on an island to stranding people with Donald Trump to standing them in the Caribbean in pirate garb. Burnett's newest venture with Spike TV will have a group of cowboys seeking to become the next U.S. rodeo superstar. The winner will be determined after each contestant dukes it out each week by riding in three separate styles: bareback, saddle bronc, and bull riding. Suddenly hanging with The Donald is seeming a bit easier in comparison.
Jockeys (premieres Friday, February 6 at 9PM ET/PT on Animal Planet)
As part of their plan to focus more on animal-themed reality shows in which animals aren't the actual stars, Animal Planet will turn the camera on race horses and the 112-pound jockeys who ride them. Jockeys will follow seven jockeys and their unique training schedules as they prepare for the Oak Tree Meet, a prestigious horse race that hosted Seabiscuit's final victory and has $35 million in purse money.
The Millionaire Matchmaker, Season 2 (premieres Thursday, February 12 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
The second season of Bravo's reality matchmaking show continues to prove that money can in fact buy you love, as long as you give it to the right person. After focusing on matching up successful men with their ideal women for the show's first season, millionaire matchmaker Patti Stanger and her crew will switch it up a little and put some of Season 2's focus and finding compatible men for to her wealthy female and gay male clients.
Survivor: Tocantins -- The Brazilian Highlands (premieres February 12 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
The eighteenth edition of CBS' long running reality series will travel back to Brazil for the first time since Survivor: Amazon, the show's sixth edition back in 2003. Expect the same usual dance of alliances and betrayals as castaways survive the hot Brazilian temperatures and torrential downpours.
The Amazing Race 14 (premieres Sunday, February 15 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
The fourteenth edition of the CBS reality travel competition will mark the first time that the show has aired consecutive fall and spring editions since the tenth and eleventh seasons aired in 2006-2007. While not much is known about the upcoming season's cast or Pit Stop locations, one can only hope for the return of the wooden bikes on the Bolivian cobblestone roads to soften up a few more contestants like they did in the thirteenth season.
The Celebrity Apprentice, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, March 1 at 9PM ET/PT on NBC)
The Donald is back, complete with longer two hour episodes and another set of D-list celebrities to berate in the second celebrity edition of the Mark Burnett reality business competition. While the show's cast has yet to be confirmed by NBC, it reportedly includes Andrew Dice Clay, Kloe Kardashian, Joan and Melissa Rivers, and Dennis Rodman. At least Trump was able to pull in the same caliber of celebrity that he got for the show's first celebrity edition.
Dancing with the Stars, Season 8 (premieres Monday, March 9 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
Will the so-called Dancing with the Stars curse continue to rear its ugly head? Is Julianne Hough really never coming back to the show? Will someone finally slip some triptophan into Bruno Tonioli's coffee so he makes a little more sense? With the show's eighth season premiere consisting of three broadcasts spread over the course of two weeks it may take a while for everything to get started, but let's all sit back and find out together, shall we?
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Posted by: John Bracchitta on Friday, December 26, 2008 - 05:55 PM EST
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MTV has announced it's ordered seven new reality series -- Rob Dydrek's Fantasy Factory, The CollegeHumor Show, Nitro Circus, Daddy's Girls, College Life, How's Your News? and MTV's Untitled Performing Arts Reality Project -- for broadcast in early 2009.
"This is a generation with the bravado and drive to reinvent the world, and the ingenuity to actually pull it off," said MTV president Brian Graden. "These new series reflect Generation 'Why Not?,' living, working and playing on their own terms, 'adventure capitalists' if you will, pursuing a variety of thrill seeking, 2.0, express-yourself enterprises."
All seven of the aforementioned shows, as well as The Girls of Hedsor Hall -- a Donald Trump-produced Charm School-like reality series that MTV had ordered under the working title of Lady or a Tramp back in March -- are currently slated to premiere in the first quarter of 2009 and be part of a new programming initiative in which MTV will begin airing original programming on the Sundays 9-11PM ET/PT time periods and the Mondays and Thursdays at 9-10PM ET/PT time periods.
"In the coming months, we are unveiling an extremely ambitious launch schedule filled with an unprecedented volume of new content," said MTV programming executive Tony Disanto.
"We are giving our viewers a spectrum of choice across a diverse slate of exciting creative in various genres and formats by expanding to new timeslots and fast tracking projects. Our upcoming Sunday night block of programming has the unifying theme of entrepreneurship, ambition, and enterprise wrapped in an adrenalized spirit and attitude."
Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory will follow the Rob & Big star as he looks to expand his skateboarding business via "The Fantasy Factory" -- a 25,000 square foot industrial-complex-turned-skate-park and product testing facility. Action sport celebrities Travis Pastrana, Paul Rodriguez, Steve Berra, Ken Block and Danny Way will also appear on the show. Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory is being executive produced by Dyrdek, Jeff Tremaine, Ruben Fleisher and Shane Nickerson.
The CollegeHumor Show will introduce viewers to the staff behind collegehumor.com, a website started by two high school friends that currently boasts a monthly readership of six million. The series will be filmed at the website's actual offices. The CollegeHumor Show is being executive produced by Ricky Van Veen, Josh Abramson, Sam Reich and Scott Tomlinson.
Nitro Circus is being executive produced by former Jackass producers Jeff Tremaine and Johnny Knoxville. It will follow freestyle motocross rider Travis Pastrana as he performs Jackass-style stunts with a group that includes professional mountain biker Jim DeChamp, motocross rider Andy Bell, base jumping daredevil Erik Roner, female motocross sensation Jolene Van Vugt and former sheet-rocker Streetbike Tommy.
Daddy's Girls will star Vanessa and Angela Simmons, who have previously starred in MTV's Run's House reality series. The spinoff will feature the girls as they move to Los Angeles to set up a west coast office and showroom for their tennis shoe and apparel line, and also so Vanessa can pursue her acting career. Jason A. Carbone, Sean "Diddy" Combs and Rev. Run are serving as executive producers.
MTV is billing College Life as "a completely self-produced, groundbreaking series" that will follow a group of students as they embark on their freshman year at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. The series is being executive produced by Liz Gateley, Brent Haynes and Amy Emmmerich.
How's Your News? is based on a series of short films directed by Arthur Bradford that subsequently led to a feature film, and the MTV series will feature a team of reporters who drive across America in a customized tour bus and documenting their experiences. How's Your News? is being executive produced by Bradford, Matt Stone and Trey Parker.
MTV's Untitled Performing Arts Reality Project was created by Nick Lachey and will focus on students attending Cincinnati's School for Creative and Performing Arts -- blending their performances with narrative about the school that the former Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica star attended as a youth. MTV had ordered a pilot for the series last March.
The Girls of Hedsor Hall will take a group of young women out of their wild and crazy lifestyles and teach them to become proper women. It is based on Ladette to Lady, a British reality series in which a group of women are sent to Britain's Eggleston Hall charm school.
MTV's version is being produced by Donald Trump's Trump Productions and RDF USA, and it will follow a group of 12 American girls who are whisked across the Atlantic to Hedsor Hall where they are taught how to be ladies by headmistress Gill Harbord, disciplinarian Rosemary Shrager and former Miss USA Tara Conner.
The girl who shows the most improvement at the end of the series will claim $100,000.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, December 17, 2008 - 06:16 PM EST
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Reality producer Mike Fleiss has apparently decided he's found a home with Warner Bros.
The Bachelor creator has inked an exclusive deal with Warner Bros. Television and its Warner Horizon TV branch, Daily Variety reported Thursday. Fleiss has worked with Warner Bros. since 2000.
The "eight-figure" deal, which includes all development and production from Fleiss and his Next Entertainment production company, makes Fleiss one of the highest-paid reality television producers, Variety reported.
"We've had so much success together, it seemed like the right thing to do," Fleiss told Variety. "They expect me to keep selling shows, and that's what we've been doing for eight years. Despite the hard times in our business, you know the kind of shows we produce will continue to be produced."
Fleiss is currently in different production stages on eight other projects with various networks, according to Variety.
Among them are ABC's The Bachelor -- the thirteenth season of which premieres next month -- and The Bachelorette's fifth season, which is also "in the works" as mideseason programming, according to Variety.
At CBS, Fleiss is producing There Goes the Neighborhood, a new reality competition series that pits families against their neighbors for a large prize.
He is also working with RDF USA to produce The CW's Hitched or Ditched, a reality series that follows couples as they go through the steps of planning their wedding before deciding whether or not to exchange nuptials for real.
In addition, Fleiss is producing The Cougar, an Age of Love-like reality series TV Land ordered last May that will follow a group of young men vying for the heart of an older, more mature woman. TV Land also plans to air the fifth season of Fleiss' High School Reunion next year.
Fleiss is also reportedly developing a reality series for E! starring former The Bachelor: London Calling winner Shayne Lamas, and a reality project for Oxygen starring boxer "Sugar" Shane Mosley and his wife Jin.
"Reality is what I do," Fleiss told Variety. "I'm a TV creature at heart, and I'm fired up to make more original TV."
Warner Bros. TV president Peter Roth -- who is also Fleiss' neighbor -- gushed about the producer's talent when it comes to reality programming.
"[He's] one of the most accomplished producers of reality programming in the history of the industry," Roth told Variety.
Despite his love for reality, Fleiss told Variety he also has his sights set on producing some scripted programming.
"In working in all the movies we've made, I've gotten to know some of the writers community," said Fleiss, who has produced several films, including Poseidon, Hostel and the 2003 remake of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
"The next logical step would be to do some scripted shows."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Saturday, December 13, 2008 - 04:21 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, December 11, 2008 - 01:22 PM EST
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Craig Plestis is out as NBC's reality chief.
NBC Universal announced it has ousted Plestis as its executive vice president of alternative programming and replaced him with former BBC Worldwide America executive and Dancing with the Stars producer Paul Telegdy. The move will take effect January 5.
Despite being let go as NBC's reality chief, Plestis will still be part of the NBC Universal family.
Plestis will launch and serve as president of Apogee Studios -- a new production company that will be housed within NBC Universal Media Studios and run by Telegdy.
According to NBC, Plestis will "assist" with Telegdy's transition and remain in his current role until Telegdy officially joins the network in January. After that, he'll start "his new role producing content and becoming a key supplier of alternative projects for NBC Universal."
In addition, NBC also announced the restructuring of its studio and network programming divisions -- including the hiring of Angela Bromstad as president of primetime entertainment for NBC and Universal Media Studios. Bromstad had most recently served as NBC Universal International Production president.
Both Telegdy and Bromstad will report to NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios co-chairmen Ben Silverman and Marc Graboff.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, December 08, 2008 - 07:04 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, December 01, 2008 - 07:22 PM EST
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Tony Robbins will reportedly help empower people via a new reality series.
NBC has ordered a pilot presentation for a new The Biggest Loser-like reality series starring the self-help writer and speaker, TV Week reported Sunday.
While NBC has remained mum on the project's details, TV Week reported the network has already begun casting for people who've had their lives "knocked off course by a tragedy from which they can't seem to recover" or who are "paralyzed by fears or anger."
"The world's leading life coach, Tony Robbins, is teaming with NBC to offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get you, or someone you love, the help they need," reads the project's casting notice, according to TV Week. "If your case is right, you could meet Tony one-on-one and experience an incredible transformation."
In addition, the show also offers potential participants "the chance to turn their life around."
NBC declined to reveal the production company behind the project, according to TV Week, which added NBC reality executive Craig Plestis will oversee it.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, November 24, 2008 - 05:02 PM EST
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SOAPnet has announced that it has ordered ten one-hour episodes of Southern Belles, a new The Real Housewives-like docu-reality series that will follow the professional and romantic lives of five single, modern Southern women in their twenties and thirties.
Southern Belles, which is currently shooting in Louisville, Kentucky, is being produced by Endemol USA in association with ABC Media Productions, with Joe Livecchi serving as executive producer.
Southern Belles' pickup was one of three new series orders announced by the network. In addition to Southern Belles, the network has also ordered Greg Behrendt's Wake-Up Call, a new reality series that will see the comedian and author use his humor to counsel troubled couples, and Being Erica, a new scripted drama that will follow a single woman struggling to find out why her life is headed nowhere.
"SOAPnet remains committed to growing the soap genre and is increasing its original program offerings next year with new series that contain soapy' elements and complement the serialized drama found in our daytime and primetime offerings," said Brian Frons, the president of the Disney ABC-Television Group daytime programming group SOAPnet is part of. "In speaking to our viewers, we have learned that they are on a path of self discovery and each of our new series taps into that journey."
All three series are scheduled to premiere sometime in 2009, according to the network.
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Posted by: John Bracchitta on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 - 02:44 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, November 04, 2008 - 08:53 PM EST
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Bravo has announced that it is developing four new reality series -- Celebrity Sew-Off, Double Exposure, Polo and The Dubai Project.
"In the past year, we've increased our programming hours by almost 50 percent giving Bravo's highly engaged viewers our trademark line-up of talented, creative and culturally relevant lifestyles and personalities," said Bravo Media executive Frances Berwick.
"With our broad slate of new development, we continue to pull back the curtain on creative endeavors and different cultures."
Celebrity Sew-Off is the working title for a new reality competition series that will follow celebrity contestants as they are paired with fashion industry experts for the opportunity to launch their own clothing label.
Celebrity Sew-Off is produced by Lake Paradise Entertainment, with Holly M. Wofford and Viki Cacciatore serving as executive producers.
Each episode of Double Exposure will follow high fashion and celebrity photographers Markus Klinko and Indrani -- who have photographed everything from album covers for David Bowe and Beyonce to high-profile shoots with Lindsay Lohan and Kate Winslet -- as they professionally work together despite being former lovers.
The tentatively-titled series is produced by Juma Entertainment, with Bob Horowitz and Lewis Fenton serving as executive producers.
Polo is the working title of a new reality series that will offer viewers a look into the personal and professional lives of the world's most accomplished polo players, showing how they balance life off the field with the competitive sport they play on it.
Polo is produced by Granada USA, with Paul Bucceieri, Brian Zagorski and Riaz Patel serving as executive producers.
The Dubai Project will follow a group of American and British ex-patriots as they live in Dubai and attempt to navigate one of the fastest-growing cities on earth in the center of the Middle East.
The tentatively-titled series is produced by World of Wonder, with Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey serving as executive producers.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, October 31, 2008 - 02:24 PM EST
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Despite an initial report to the contrary, The CW's new Operation Fabulous reality project apparently isn't an America's Next Top Model spinoff. Nor would it be a standard reality makeover show.
On Friday, The Hollywood Reporter reported The CW had given a pilot order to Operation Fabulous, a new reality series that would star Top Model judge and runway expert J. "Miss J." Alexander and photo shoot director Jay Manuel and be executive produced by Top Model producers Tyra Banks and Ken Mok.
According to the report, the "Top Model spinoff" would be produced by Kristina Productions, Banks' Bankable Productions and Mok's 10x10 Entertainment production companies and follow Manuel and Alexander as they traveled to various towns and selected five women to receive hair, makeup, and fashion makeovers similar to those Top Model's contestants get each season.
However, according to Manuel, Operation Fabulous isn't a Top Model spinoff.
"It is definitely not a [Top Model] spinoff, I can definitely say that. " Manuel told E! News. "This is a new series that is a separate world from Model and will really help women try to elevate their lives."
In addition, Operation Fabulous' format wouldn't be as simple as originally reported.
While the series' early episodes would each feature five women from a specific town receiving makeovers, the women would actually be competing to be crowned their town's Operation Fabulous winner, according to Manuel. From there, the local winners would move on to compete in a larger competition that would end with the winner receiving a "makeover" for their town.
"We can't talk about what the prize is, but I can tell you, it is a major prize," Manuel told E! News.
Manuel and Alexander have been part of Top Model since it premiered on UPN in 2003 -- a situation that Manuel says won't change even if The CW decides to move forward with Operation Fabulous.
"A lot of people are wondering if this means J and I are leaving Model. And no way. That is not true. We would never leave the original show," Manuel told E!.
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, October 14, 2008 - 12:45 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, October 02, 2008 - 12:40 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, September 29, 2008 - 08:13 PM EST
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Animal Planet has announced that it will premiere Whale Wars, a new docu-reality series that follow a conservation group's efforts to eradicate illegal whaling operations through the use of radical methods, on Friday, November 7 at 9PM ET/PT.
Whale Wars' seven-episode season will document the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society's 2007-2008 "Operation Migaloo" campaign to rid the high seas of Japanese whaling by utilizing various aggressive techniques including ramming and disabling whaling ships, disrupting whale carcass processing, engaging in physical entanglement, and boarding and dispersing fleets of whale vessels.
"Whale Wars is an epic adventure that looks at the consequences of taking a stand on an issue," said Animal Planet president Marjorie Kaplan. "It's so important that Whale Wars calls Animal Planet its home. It's truly compelling television, and it's entertainment with a conservative message infused to its core."
Captain Paul Watson founded the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in 1977 because he believed environmental activists had to go even further to eradicate whaling, poaching, shark finning, habitat destruction and purported ocean law violations than the Greenpeace group he had previously co-founded.
Some of the portions of the Sea Shepherd's most-recent campaign that will be included on Whale Wars will be two crew members being captured by a Japanese ship; Watson allegedly being fired upon by another Japanese whaling ship; and the various methods the campaign used in forcing the Japanese to fall nearly 500 whales short of its quota.
"Whaling has no place in the 21st century," said Watson. "Sea Shepherd will not stop until the killing ends.
Animal Planet began developing Whale Wars in February as part of a relaunching and rebranding effort built around a new more adult-targeted programming schedule that will include animal-themed reality shows and additional Meerkat Manor-like anthropomorphic series. It announced the series' pickup in July.
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Posted by: Reality TV World staff on Saturday, September 20, 2008 - 11:32 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 - 11:32 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, September 16, 2008 - 11:49 AM EST
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As the days grow shorter and temperatures chill, the slate of reality series for the fall heats up with the return of several powerhouse programs and some new shows thrown into the mix.
Not all of this fall's reality shows have formal premiere dates yet but the following is Reality TV World's 2008 Reality TV Fall Preview, highlighting all of the currently known shows that will be premiering in coming weeks as well as where and when to tune in.
In addition, some shows that debuted during the late summer -- including America's Got Talent, Big Brother 10, America's Toughest Jobs, The Hills, New York Goes to Hollywood, Outsider's Inn, The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency and My Super Sweet 16: Exiled! -- will continue airing new episodes well into the fall.
America's Next Top Model, Season 11 (premieres Wednesday, September 3 at 8PM ET/PT on The CW)
Tyra Banks is apparently all about breaking down barriers, as full-figured model Whitney Thompson took home the show's tenth-season title and the show's upcoming eleventh installment will be the first to feature a transgender contestant. Ten of the 14 girls are also billed by The CW as students, meaning many of the catfights could be centered on literature or philosophy instead of who stole extra shower time. OK, maybe not.
Top Design, Season 2 (premieres Wednesday, September 3 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
With soon-to-be-former Project Runway producers Magical Elves onboard for the second season of this reality series, it seemed like there might be some changes in store. However the show will largely follow the same format as its lackluster first season and also feature the return of now-former host Todd Oldham, who would be a tree if he was any more wooden.
Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?, Season 3 (premieres Friday, September 5 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
Just in time for the start of a new school year, this game show that embarrasses adults by proving elementary-aged students are more knowledgeable than they are is back for its third season -- no doubt shaming parents across the country into hiring tutors instead of helping with homework.
The Rachel Zoe Project (premieres Monday, September 8 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
While viewers may not know Rachel Zoe, they're almost certainly familiar with the styles she's designed for Nicole Richie, Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan and Cameron Diaz. Now they'll get a chance to meet the brains behind the beauty via this new reality series, which will follow the celebrity stylist and her team as they attempt to put her at the forefront of a new business.
Hole in the Wall (premieres Thursday, September 11 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
The name of this Japanese import says it all, as contestants attempt to contort their bodies to fit through different-sized shapes cut into a wall for the chance to win money. While versions of the show air in dozens of different countries, its stateside version will have the dubious honor of going up against Survivor and hoping its torch doesn't get snuffed.
Kitchen Nightmares, Season 2 (premieres Thursday, September 11 at 9PM ET/PT on Fox)
What better way to give a struggling eating establishment a kick in the pants than be sending in foul-mouthed culinary king Gordon Ramsay? The second season of this British import will continue to do just that, following the Hell's Kitchen star as he travels across the country and helps restaurants in crisis. The FCC better keep its finger on the censor button for this one.
Don't Forget the Lyrics, Season 2 (premieres Friday, September 12 at 9PM ET/PT on Fox)
This game show is back for a second season, which will once again see contestants try to remember the lyrics to famous songs for the chance to win a cash prize. Just don't forget it will air on Friday nights, which have traditionally proven to be a ratings graveyard for younger-skewing programming.
The Biggest Loser: Families (premieres Tuesday, September 16 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
Now that this reality weight loss series has finally crowned a female champ, it's setting its sights on helping family members shed excess pounds via its sixth season. However the contestants won't be the only part of the show that could stand to lose a little, as NBC has once again decided to air bloated two-hour broadcasts on a weekly basis.
The Real Housewives of Atlanta (premieres Tuesday, September 16 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
In Bravo's attempt to document the lives of housewives in each of the 50 states, this spin-off will allow the network to cross Georgia off the list. Despite the different location, expect much of the same from the five "Hotlanta" women as they balance their burgeoning careers with busy home lives.
Survivor: Gabon (premieres Thursday, September 18 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
Whether he likes it or not, Jeff Probst will get up close and personal with viewers for the seventeenth installment of this reality series, which for the first time will air in high-definition format. Good thing the smell wafting off the castaways isn't also HD, since the African sun and lack of soap doesn't produce the most flattering scent.
In Harm's Way (premieres Sunday, September 21 at 7PM ET/PT on The CW)
Perilous professions will be the subject of this new reality series, which seems to be Deadliest Catch, Lobster Wars, Ax Men, Ice Road Truckers, Black Gold and any other Thom Beers-produced dangerous job show all rolled into one. Maybe watching it on Sunday nights will make viewers appreciate the relatively safety of their jobs come Monday morning.
Dancing with the Stars, Season 7 (premieres Monday, September 22 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
The mirror ball trophy is once again up for grabs in the sixth season of this reality series, with everyone from octogenarian Cloris Leachman to reality starlet Kim Kardashian and former boy band member Lance Bass on board as celebrity participants. However the stars are starting to get outshone by their professional counterparts, as Maks Mania and Hough Fever will undoubtedly sweep the nation.
Opportunity Knocks (premieres Tuesday, September 23 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
Now that Beauty and the Geek won't be airing anytime soon, Ashton Kutcher has different endeavors to focus on -- beginning with this new game show that's set in the competing family's backyard. Neighbors will no doubt think they're being Punk'd when they awake to see a stage set up on their street and executive producer JD Roth doing his best to helm the series.
The Amazing Race, Season 13 (premieres Sunday, September 28 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
The next installment of this long-running reality series is back just in time to see if it was able to claim its sixth consecutive Outstanding Reality-Competition Program Emmy Award. Even if it does, it's a good thing the show is pre-taped since host Phil Keoghan was snubbed in the newly created host category -- meaning he presumably spent his summer sulking.
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Season 6 (premieres Sunday, September 28 at 7PM ET/PT on ABC)
Now that this show's trek across the 50 states has finally come to a close, it's back to business as usual as the design team descends on families in need and gives them the dream home they've always wanted but could never afford. Considering the current state of the housing market, there's a good chance they still won't be able to afford it once the cameras stop rolling.
Will Work for Food (premieres Tuesday, September 30 at 9:30PM ET/PT on Food Network)
Adam Gertler wasn't crowned The Next Food Network Star's fourth-season champ, but that didn't stop him from helming this new reality series -- which will follow him as he explores a variety of little-known jobs in the culinary world and introduces viewers to the people who work at the different professions on a daily basis.
Paris Hilton's My New BFF (premieres Tuesday, September 30th at 10pm ET/PT on MTV)
What does a "celebutante" do when she wants more people to talk to -- or tolerate -- her? Get a show on MTV! After being quizzed on all things Paris and led around the world to banquets and parties, eighteen Hilton-devotees will vie to become the hotel-heiress' newest BFF while avoiding being told to "TTYN" (or "talk to you never").
17 Kids and Counting (premieres Wednesday, October 1 at 9PM ET/PT on Discovery Health Channel)
Strongly against birth control and clearly willing to put their money where there mouth is, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar -- and their 17 children -- are the subject of this new show. In between planning for their eldest son's wedding, readying themselves for child #18, and maintaining their used car lot, The Duggars experiences may ironically serve as the best kind of birth control around.
Tim Gunn's Guide to Style, Season 2 (premieres Thursday, October 2 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
The Project Runway fashion guru is back for the second season of his own reality makeover show, which will continue to transform fashion disasters into stylish individuals. However supermodel Veronica Webb -- Gunn's first-season co-host -- will be replaced by fashion expert Gretta Monahan, who will lend her sense of style to help each fashion zero find their signature look.
Wife Swap, Season 5 (premieres Friday, October 3 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
While some of the husbands featured in the fifth season of this reality series presumably wish they could swap their spouse for good, that wouldn't be in the spirit of the show, which will instead see matriarchs exchange families as a learning experience.
Supernanny, Season 5 (premieres Friday, October 3 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
There is apparently no rest for Jo Frost, who will return for the fifth season of this reality series to help rear unruly children and teach their parents a thing or two about how they can do the same once the British nanny catches a tailwind and umbrellas it back across the Atlantic.
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Season 3 (premieres Saturday, October 4 at 9:30PM ET/PT on CMT)
Tired of watching repeats of the Dallas Cowboys' players sweat it out in training camp on Hard Knocks? Switch the channel to CMT and watch the drama unfold as cheerleading hopefuls are once again pitted against each other and vie for their chance to join "America's Team's" cheerleading squad and dance on Texas Stadium's big star. Dates with T.O are not included.
My Big Redneck Wedding, Season 2 (premieres Saturday, October 4 at 9PM ET/PT on CMT)
Those longing to see a wedding that not only reinforces every southern stereotype in the books, but one that also revels in it, need look no further than the second season of My Big Redneck Wedding. Host Tom Arnold will follow a different couple each week as they prepare their (extremely) southern-style weddings. And given August's special featured catering by Hooters and a giant matrimonial beer slide, it will be interesting to see what they come up with next.
Dirty Jobs, Season 4 (premieres Tuesday, October 7 at 9PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel)
Mike Rowe is still going strong after three seasons of subjecting himself to the worst jobs on earth. In Season 4, Rowe will tackle gross-out professsions such as serving an apprentice for a large-animal-veternarian, harvesting cranberries, fishing for slime eels, and excavating an oil tank in New Jersey. Ew, New Jersey...
Gimme My Reality Show! (premieres Saturday, October 11 at midnight on Fox Reality Channel)
Gimme isn't a polite way to ask for anything, but considering the cast of reality show retreads and wannabe celebrities assembled for this new series there's apparently no time for manners. The show will also be airing on Saturdays at midnight, which certainly won't do anything to help the contestants gain the exposure they were hoping for.
The Chef Jeff Project (premieres Sunday, October 12 at 10pm ET/PT on Food Network)
Inmate-turned-award-winning-chef Jeff Anderson has learned a lot through his troubled past. In The Chef Jeff Project, he will seek to pass along advice to six troubled youths -- nicknamed "The Crew" -- as they complete catering assignments in which he'll attempt to remake their appearances, attitudes and behaviors. Manny Ramirez will do his part by offering advice on hair styling as well.
Scream Queens (premieres Sunday, October 12 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
When she's not working at Jigsaw's side in the Saw films, actress Shawnee Smith will join Dawn of the Dead director James Gunn and acting coach John Homa as they bloody up 10 potential starlets competing for the chance to likely be killed in an upcoming Lionsgate Films horror feature. You may want to put the kids to bed before this one.
Rock of Love: Charm School with Sharon Osbourne (premieres, October 12 at 9:00PM ET/PT on VH1)
Sharon Osbourne tamed her rock star husband Ozzy so you know she means business. In Charm School, Osbourne will serve as the "headmistress" for 14 women who were former contestants on Rock of Love with Bret Michaels' first two seasons. With a $100,000 grand prize at stake, the girls will get a few lessons in etiquette from Osbourne and have their social skills put to the test in a variety of challenges.
Little People, Big World, Season 4 (Premieres Monday, October 13 at 8 PM ET/PT on TLC)
Yes their house is still under construction... Season 4 will see Matt Roloff will journey to Iraq to help a family with three dwarf children in desperate need of medical attention while sons Jeremy and Zach prepare for their graduation, daughter Molly learns to drive, and mother Amy begins to realize that her children are growing up. It sounds like their big world is only getting bigger.
Toughest Race on Earth: Iditarod (premieres Tuesday, October 14 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel)
Going on a 1,150 mile sled dog race from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska may not be some people's idea of a good time even if you spotted them an RV and a space heater. But for the seven mushers that were followed by cameras during the 2008 Iditarod Trial Sled Dog Race, facing the harsh conditions of the Alaskan wilderness firsthand is literally just another day at the office for them. The six-episode series will chronicle each musher's journey in the race, which saw eighteen musher's drop out of it's 2008 running because of harsh conditions.
Parking Wars, Season 2 (premieres Wednesday, October 15 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
The second season of Parking Wars will once again focus on the always busy members of the Philadelphia Parking Authority as they dispense parking violations, impound vehicles and draw the ire of almost everyone they meet. Season 2 will also introduce a new class of PPA employees to the mix where they will be taught to write tickets and deflect criticism as well. Talk about anti-heroes...
Prototype This (premieres Wednesday, October 15 at 10PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel)
Sure, a "road rage proof" car sounds like a good idea in principle, but who would ever take the time to make it a reality? Enter Prototype This, a Smash Lab-like series in which emerging techonlogies meet possible inventions and -- with the help of electronics specialists, engineers, professors, and special effects experts -- attempt to create an original and forward thinking invention. Enough about the car, just send them a copy of Windows Vista and let them fix that.
Stylista (premieres Wednesday, October 22 at 9PM ET/PT on The CW)
Tyra Banks has teamed up with a pair of former non-Magical Elves Project Runway executive producers for this new reality series, which will follow contestants competing for a paid, year-long Elle editorial position. Don't hesitate to make The Devil Wears Prada comparisons -- The CW certainly hasn't.
Secret Millionaire (premieres Wednesday, December 3 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
Fox has duped numerous people via reality series ranging from My Big Fat Obnoxious Fiance and Joe Millionaire, and the joke is on the homeless in this new show -- which will follow wealthy Americans as they try to survive in some of the country's most impoverished neighborhoods. At least the penniless people will receive some money for their troubles, and just in time for the holiday season.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, September 02, 2008 - 11:51 AM EST
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Margaret Wilkins -- who is credited as being one of Britain's first reality television stars when she appeared in the 1974 series The Family -- has died. She was 73.
Wilkins died suddenly at her Wood Moor, Berkshire home on August 10 from a suspected heart attack, the U.K.'s The Daily Mirror reported Wednesday.
"She may be gone in voice and body and her finger will no longer wag at us 'Do it my way or you'll be sorry," The Family producer Paul Watson told The Mirror. "But her smile, twinkling eyes, quick wit and wise words will forever be in our minds."
Wilkins, her husband Terry and their children Gary, Marian, Heather and Chris starred in The Family, a 12-week series that followed the working-class family as they went about their daily lives in their cramped apartment above a small grocery store in Reading, Berkshire. (The Family shouldn't be confused with An American Family, the groundbreaking 1973 PBS series which followed the Loud family, who many consider America's own first reality stars.)
While 10 million viewers regularly watched The Family, according to The Mirror, Wilkins' behavior was considered to be crude by some and prompted infamous British activist Mary Whitehouse to call for the show's cancellation.
Among the things Wilkins was reportedly criticized for were her foul language, discussions surrounding taboo subjects, and reducing then 9-year-old Chris to tears by revealing he was actually the result of her affair with the local garbage man.
"We didn't see anything wrong with the way we lived," Wilkins had explained previously, according to The Mirror. "We were pioneers, the first real-life family to be on TV and no one else will ever be as good."
Wilkins' 26-year marriage ended shortly after the show aired, but she went on to remarry, according to The Mirror.
Her funeral service was held at Reading Crematorium on Monday.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, August 21, 2008 - 10:33 AM EST
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Viewers will reportedly receive a more in depth look at American Idol's heyday beginning this fall.
American Idol Rewind's format will see a tweak when the syndicated weekly series' third season debuts this fall, TV Week reported Sunday. The show's third season will document the Fox mega-hit's third and fourth seasons which aired in 2004 and 2005.
"This year will be more highlight-driven as we focus on the journeys of some of the contestants from seasons three and four who became household names," American Idol Rewind executive producer Tracy Verna Soiseth told TV Week.
"With some of the names ranging from Jennifer Hudson and Fantasia to Carrie Underwood and Bo Bice coming out of these shows, there is a lot of fun stuff for us to explore where you get to see the best and worst of Idol, including William Hung."
Each one-hour American Idol Rewind episode includes performances and results from original Idol broadcasts; never-before-seen previously shot footage; additional behind the scenes facts and details; new footage that focuses on how contestants got through the competition; and present-day interviews with finalists.
The show's upcoming installment will focus more on the "memorable moments and unaired footage," according to TV Week, which added producers are planning a Carrie Underwood-themed special for the third-season finale.
"Carrie walks us through her Idol experience from her audition to her win, and discusses with us the highs and lows she went through as part of the process," Soiseth told TV Week. "She gets very specific with her greatest challenges and uncertain nights as well as what she thought about the competition."
In addition, Trifecta Entertainment will start serving as American Idol Rewind's new distributor, according to TV Week, which added "new stations in major markets" have signed on to air the show's third-season episodes.
"Distribution of the series has been great and we expect to be above 95% for the new season," Trifecta CEO Hank Cohen told TV Week. "Stations are excited about the changes to the show, and [Soiseth] is putting together a more complete book as we rewind the journeys of people that audiences care about."
Trifecta recently inked a deal with TV Guide Channel, which will air episodes of the series a week after they hit broadcast stations.
"Rewind has always been a phenomenal show, and we are now able to make the show the best it can be," Cohen told TV Week. "American Idol is such a juggernaut that we can now give fans a show that better reflects what fans love about the show."
American Idol Rewind premiered in September 2006 and averaged a 1.8 rating in syndication entering last month, TV Week reported.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, August 20, 2008 - 12:49 AM EST
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Jennifer Bresnan has been tapped to serve as CBS Entertainment's senior vice president of alternative programming and will head CBS' reality programming department, the network has announced.
Bresnan is replacing Ghen Maynard -- who last week left his position as CBS' executive vice president for alternative programming and entertainment content, which he had held since June 2006.
However Bresnan isn't filling the exact same position as Maynard, Daily Variety reported Monday.
While Maynard handled new media content and worked for the CBS Paramount Network TV Entertainment Group -- and thus oversaw alternative programming for both CBS and The CW -- Bresnan will only be at CBS Entertainment and will not have any involvement with The CW.
Bresnan had served as The CW's senior vice president of alternative programming since August 2006 and supervised the production of the network's reality programming, including America's Next Top Model and Beauty and the Geek. She also oversaw the network's upcoming new Stylista and 13: Fear is Real reality series.
"Jen's background in developing and producing reality programming is incredibly diverse, her relationships in the creative community run very deep, and we're excited for her to start developing all types of programming in the reality genre," said CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler.
While Maynard contributed to developing Survivor, The Amazing Race and Big Brother as CBS' first reality programming executive earlier this decade, Bresnan will now have the responsibility of overseeing the shows as they move forward.
Prior to joining The CW, Bresnan also served as producer on American Idol's first season, worked as a supervising producer on The Apprentice: Martha Stewart, and co-executive produced The Swan's first and second seasons. She was also senior producer on Paradise Hotel and High School Reunion 2.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, August 19, 2008 - 04:13 AM EST
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Takeru Kobayashi and Joey Chestnut better watch their backs.
Food Network is developing Eat the Clock, a new reality series billed as a cross between The Amazing Race and an eating competition, The Hollywood Reporter reported Monday.
The tentatively-titled series would follow two teams of contestants as they race from one Los Angeles eatery to another and participate in different challenges that will see them quickly consuming various foods, according to The Reporter.
Eat the Clock's pilot is currently slated to film in the near future and it is slated to debut early next year should Food Network order the series, according to The Reporter.
Eat the Clock is produced by Pie Town Productions, the same company behind Food Network's Rachel Ray's Tasty Travels and HGTV's Design on a Dime.
Kobayashi is the most decorated contestant in recent competitive eating history, having claimed the Nathan's International July Fourth Hot Dog Eating Contest title for six consecutive years. The event, which is broadcast annually on ESPN, has been won by Chestnut for the past two years.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, August 18, 2008 - 07:16 AM EST
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Mark Burnett feels comparing Survivor host Jeff Probst to American Idol host Ryan Seacrest is like comparing apples to oranges, and adding Deal or No Deal host Howie Mandel into the mix is a whole different type of food altogether.
"Certainly, an unscripted show like Survivor is not the same as a talent show, which is not the same as a gameshow," Burnett told Daily Variety in a Thursday report.
Burnett was commenting on the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' new Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality-Competition Program category for the 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards.
"I have great respect for the Emmys, and while any gain for nonfiction programming is great, hopefully every year we'll move a bit more in the right direction," Burnett told Variety.
Seacrest, Probst, Mandel, Dancing with the Stars host Tom Bergeron and Project Runway host Heidi Klum are the inaugural set of nominees for the first-year category, and will also host the Emmy ceremony.
It should come as no surprise that Burnett is partial to Probst.
"Jeff is a huge reason why Survivor has been such a success. He strikes this balance between providing information and taking an editorial view. He calls the contestants to task, but has such real warmth about him that everybody loves Jeff," Burnett told Variety. "He's not only a great ambassador for our show, but he's a great ambassador for our country."
Soon-to-be-former Project Runway producer Dan Cutforth agrees with Burnett that Probst is top dog, however he added all of the nominees have their positives.
"Jeff is a pioneer -- no other show like [Survivor] ever existed," Cutforth told Variety. "Ryan has been at the forefront of the biggest show to hit primetime television. Howie took a gameshow and made it special. Heidi made viewers feel like insiders in the fashion world. And Tom made this ridiculous ballroom competition make sense. Everyone in this category has done something remarkable with their shows."
Cutforth continued that Project Runway "had no business working" but Klum "became the face of the show" and made its subject matter a hit with viewers.
"It's about people sewing and living in a world that's quite closed off. You can't even buy tickets to go to Fashion Week in New York," he told Variety. "But Heidi made it all relatable to the audience and brought them into a part of the fashion world. She's not mean, but she speaks her mind and is open and honest, which comes across well in the show."
Dancing With the Stars producer Conrad Green said -- like Klum with Runway -- Bergeron also took something most viewers aren't familiar with and helped make it successful.
"Tom knows how to make us laugh, but also knows when things need to be taken seriously. He's spontaneous and sets the tone for the show," Green told Variety. "There have been some difficult moments on the air, with people dealing with family members dying and other members dying and other tragedies, then moments of great humor, and Tom can handle it all. Doing a live program like this was a lost art for a long time. Not that many people can do it."
Idol producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz can name another person who has the skills Green described in Bergeron.
"No one is better at this than Ryan. He's incredibly professional, and he's very good on his feet. He can build the dramatic moment or react quickly with humor. He's endearing and knows how to connect with the contestants," Frot-Coutaz told Variety.
"You can rely on him to bring the show in on time, and he can handle anything that comes up. Every time we look for a host for another one of our shows, we say we need another Seacrest. Unfortunately, there isn't one. If there were, it would be much easier to produce reality shows."
While Mandel might seem to be the category's square peg, Deal or No Deal producer David Goldberg said the host is Emmy worthy in the category.
"When casting, we needed someone like Howie who had experience in a variety of entertainment genres," Goldberg told Variety. "This show has some extremely tense moments. A person on the brink of winning a million dollars can end up with a dollar in their pocket. You need someone who can play to those highs and lows, and Howie does that beautifully. Howie is the glue that holds this show together -- you just can't imagine anyone else hosting this show."
Frot-Coutaz added that she thinks the Emmy's will eventually distinguish between "field vs. stage shows the same way we have seen dramas vs. movies categories," according to Variety.
But for now, Cutforth said he's just glad reality hosts are finally being recognized -- period.
"I've always felt reality is the unmentionable bastard offspring no one wants to acknowledge, but has to be invited to family events anyway," he told Variety. "If I was to be cynical, I'd say [the reality hosts] were brought in for the viewers because, frankly, people are more interested in seeing the hosts of their favorite reality shows than some balding, bespectacled producer thanking his parents."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, August 15, 2008 - 04:37 PM EST
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NBC programming chief Ben Silverman apparently loves celebrity reality shows.
NBC is developing Celebrity Come Dine with Me, a reality series that sees a celebrity host a dinner party for four of his or her famous friends, The Hollywood Reporter reported Thursday.
Each episode will conclude with the guests judging the party based on presentation, food and entertainment value. At the end of the series' broadcast run, the celebrity whose soiree receives the highest score wins $20,000 for the charity of his or her choice.
The tentatively-titled show's concept is based on a format owned by Granada Media, according to The Reporter, which added NBC is developing the show's stateside version with the production company's American arm.
The show has aired versions in at least 16 countries, although most have featured non-celebrity contestants, according to The Reporter.
NBC is currently casting for a five-episode run of the series, which is slated to debut in December, according to The Reporter. Similar to other reality shows starring celebrities, NBC ordering the series is contingent on casting.
Silverman's Reveille production company -- which he sold earlier this year after joining NBC in May 2007 -- produced Celebrity Cooking Showdown, a reality competition series that was intended to air over the course of five consecutive nights in April 2006.
However it premiered to mediocre ratings on Monday, bombed against American Idol on Tuesday, and remained flat-lined on Wednesday -- causing NBC to pull the series. The last two episodes subsequently aired back-to-back in the Saturday night programming wasteland of 8PM ET/PT.
Donald Trump has also previously stated that the then-newly hired Silverman was the one responsible for the decision to revive The Apprentice as a celebrity series after NBC had initially left the show off its 2007-2008 midseason programming schedule and Trump said he was "moving on" and quitting.
"When Ben Silverman came in, he loved the idea of Celebrity Apprentice. He loved it right from the beginning. So I would say it was a combination of Ben and [producer] Mark Burnett and myself, as an idea," said Trump at the time. "It was going to be a regular and Ben loved the idea of Celebrity as opposed to the regular."
Most recently, NBC aired Celebrity Circus and Celebrity Family Feud as part of its summer programming schedule.
In addition to Celebrity Come Dine with Me NBC is also reportedly casting for Who Do You Think You Are?, a British reality series that will show celebrities the details of their ancestral lineage. NBC ordered Who Do You Think You Are? in March.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio and Steve Rogers on Thursday, August 14, 2008 - 12:58 PM EST
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Salma Hayek is apparently planning on giving viewers a different take on nuptials via a new reality series.
The actress and her producing partner Jose Tamez are teaming with Merv Griffin Television president Roy Bank to develop a new wedding-themed reality series, Daily Variety reported Sunday.
Bank told Variety that the hour-long reality series would give viewers "a unique take" on walking down the aisle.
In addition, the three have already had informal discussions with several networks about potentially ordering the series.
Bank had previously worked as Mark Burnett Productions' head of development and his previous reality credentials include creating Fox's Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader? and NBC's Amne$ia.
He has also served as executive producer for My Dad is Better than Your Dad and CBS' new yet-to-air Jingles reality series.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 10:23 AM EST
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CBS reality executive Ghen Maynard's torch has apparently been snuffed.
Maynard -- who served as CBS' executive vice president for alternative programming and entertainment content since June 2006 and was responsible for developing Survivor, The Amazing Race and Big Brother during an earlier tour of duty at the network -- has left the position, Daily Variety reported Sunday.
Maynard's departure ended "weeks of rumors" that CBS was thinking of "making a change with its alternative/unscripted team," according to Variety, which added "rumors of Maynard's impending exit grew even louder last week."
Instead of continuing to serve as CBS' top reality executive, Variety reported that the network has restructured Maynard's contract into a production and development deal. As part of the agreement, CBS will have a first-look option on Maynard's projects.
"Ghen has talked with us about a desire to produce, and both of us thought the time was right to make a change in the alternative area, so this is an agreement that works for everyone," CBS Paramount Network TV Entertainment Group president Nancy Tellem told Variety.
"We have great admiration and appreciation for what Ghen has accomplished here. He has developed and launched several of the top reality franchises on television."
Maynard was named CBS' first reality programming executive in June 2000 and was responsible for bringing Survivor, Big Brother and The Amazing Race to the network.
From June 2002 to May 2004 he oversaw the development of all of CBS' reality series and game shows. In addition, he also developed America's Next Top Model for CBS' now defunct UPN network.
While he left CBS in 2004 to take a position at NBC, he subsequently returned in 2006 and had served in his most recent capacity since then. However despite his early reality success, CBS has failed to develop a new reality hit since Maynard's return, with new shows like Armed & Famous, Kid Nation, Pirate Master, Secret Talents of the Stars all failing to draw viewers.
CBS has yet to name a replacement for Maynard, according to Variety, which added the network does plan to fill the position and have Maynard assist with the transition.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 02:14 AM EST
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Britian's version of The Apprentice is coming to America.
CNBC has announced it will begin broadcasting The Apprentice's initial non-celebrity U.K. version on Monday, August 25 in the 9PM and 1AM ET/PT timeslots.
In addition, CNBC will air encore broadcasts of each week's episode in the Saturdays at 8PM and 11PM ET/PT time periods beginning August 30.
The Apprentice's first season across the Atlantic premiered in February 2005 and followed 14 candidates as they competed for a job working for entrepreneur and businessman Sir Alan Sugar.
It has since aired four more seasons, the most recent of which made its debut in March.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 01:34 AM EST
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Sundance Channel has announced it's ordered Eco-Trip: The Real Cost of Living, a new reality series that will trace the origins and environmental impact of common, everyday items.
Hosted by Adventure Ecology founder David de Rothschild, Eco-Trip will follow the ecological life of different everyday items, including everything from a cotton t-shirt and salmon to a cell phone and bottle of water.
Each half-hour episode will begin by chronicling the production of each item and end with its disposal -- touching upon the environmental, social and health effects it has along the way.
In addition, Eco-Trip will also educate viewers on decision they can make to live a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle.
Sundance Channel ordered eight episodes of Eco-Trip, which is currently slated to debut next year.
The series is produced by NBC's Peacock Productions, with Laura Michalchyshyn and Lynne Kirby serving as executive producers.
"[De Rothschild] has a wonderfully engaging and inquisitive personality that will charm Sundance Channel viewers as they travel with him to learn about the impact that the production of everyday objects has on our health and on our planet," said Michalchyshyn. "And once again we are delighted to be working with the team at Peacock Productions."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 12:23 AM EST
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National Geographic Channel has announced Solo: Lost at Sea, a series that will document adventurer Andrew McAuley's attempt to become the first person to kayak solo from Australia to New Zealand, will premiere Monday, September 15 at 10PM ET/PT.
Solo: Lost at Sea will chronicle McAuley's journey as documented by a video camera mounted on the bow of his boat, which captured his own words and the strokes of his paddle as he attempted to survive wild storms, circling sharks and an exhausting month of paddling across the Tasman Sea.
In addition, the series will also include interviews with his wife Vicki, his close friends, and archival news footage.
After McAuley failed in his first attempt to cross the Tasman in December 2006 due to hypothermia, he was determined to try again and did so in January 2007 using a kayak he crafted with a watertight cockpit canopy, which allowed him to sleep in the boat in any weather.
McAuley managed to survive several hardships during the month-long journey, including a huge storm that generated nearly 40-foot swells and winds gusting up to 70-miles per hour. However, two days before the trip was expected to end on the New Zealand coast, authorities retrieved a garbled distress signal from a vessel identified as "Kayak One" -- with words deciphered as "my kayak's sinking."
McAuley's kayak was subsequently found 50 miles off the New Zealand coast floating upside down. His body was never recovered, and the series reveals that a broken hinge resulted in the watertight cockpit canopy filling with water on his final night.
Solo: Lost at Sea is produced for the National Geographic Channel by Essential Viewing Group.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Sunday, August 10, 2008 - 12:16 PM EST
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Jodie Sweetin is reportedly planning to give viewers a look at her personal life.
The former Full House star and Pants-Off Dance-Off host is currently in talks to star in a new reality series with her husband Cody Herpin, People reported Friday.
"We're going to start shooting in a couple months," Sweetin told People. "We are in talks with a couple of networks right now. We have one picked out, but nothing is signed yet... Before you sign contracts, you can't say anything."
Sweetin and Herpin married in July 2007 before welcoming their first child -- Zoie Laurel May Herpin -- this past April.
"We actually got approached about doing it by multiple people," Sweetin told People.
"It was one of those things where we were like, 'Wow. Let's totally do it.' I think it’s sort of a fun way to show the other side of celebrity and a sort of semi-normal life."
The 26-year-old former child star is also apparently aware that celebrity couples who do reality television together have a history of splitting, such as Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica stars Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson; Meet the Barkers co-stars Travis Barker and Shanna Moakler; and 'Til Death Do Us Part: Carmen & Dave co-stars Carmen Electra and Dave Navarro.
"We're hoping to break the reality show curse," Sweetin told People.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, August 04, 2008 - 02:56 AM EST
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Mark Burnett is apparently trying to turn the tables on his former business partner.
The Apprentice and Survivor producer filed a countersuit against Conrad Riggs in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Wednesday that accuses his longtime business manager of partaking in schemes to further enrich himself despite already being compensated for his work, the Los Angeles Times reported Thursday.
"Mark did not seek this lawsuit," Burnett's attorney, Steven A. Marenberg, told the Times. "He doesn't believe that lawsuits are the best way to solve problems.
Burnett's countersuit comes three weeks after Riggs initially sued Burnett, claiming he is owed more than $70 million for his contributions to their joint efforts.
Riggs' lawsuit alleges that the pair produced more than a dozen television projects and that Burnett broke a long-standing agreement to pay Riggs and his Cloudbreak Entertainment Inc. production company 10% of Burnett's profits.
However in his countersuit Burnett claims he did provide Riggs 10% of his net earnings on successful television projects that Riggs negotiated on his behalf. Burnett stated Riggs received more than $25 million during their decade-long relationship.
"Even though Riggs has already been paid the staggering sum of more than $25 million by Burnett, Riggs seeks still more," the countersuit reads, according to the Times. "Riggs now contends, without any basis, that he is entitled to payments on projects for which his services were never requested and on which he rendered none."
In addition, Burnett claims that Riggs tried to circumvent Burnett to get television networks to pay additional producer fees directly to Riggs rather than Mark Burnett Productions
"The notion that Mark Burnett was ignorant of the flow of money within his own company, or that he was somehow bamboozled by Conrad Riggs, is laughable." Riggs' attorney, Bart H. Williams, told the Times.
Burnett's countersuit also alleges Riggs' "overreaching" exposed Burnett to "substantial liability and... caused Burnett to expend substantial attorney fees and settlement costs," which the Times reported was a reference to an apparently large settlement that the two paid a Los Angeles man who had pitched Riggs on a show format "strikingly similar" to that of The Apprentice.
In his lawsuit, Burnett also accuses Riggs of attempting to take credit for creating Destination: Space, a never-produced reality series that would have sent ordinary people into outer space.
When Riggs filed an application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for the series, he listed Cloudbreak Entertainment as the creator, not Mark Burnett Productions, according to the Times. However Williams countered that Riggs did create the show's concept.
While Burnett's countersuit doesn't specify an amount for damages, the Times reported it does seek "compensatory and punitive relief and a declaration that Riggs has no interest in Burnett's companies or any right to additional payments."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 31, 2008 - 02:49 PM EST
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Spike TV announced it has ordered 1000 Ways to Die, a new reality series that will explore various and bizarre ways that a person can perish.
Each half-hour episode of 1000 Ways to Die will tell viewers true stories about the unorthodox style of death that different people have encountered by using full reenactments combined with witness testimonials, historical tidbits, scientific explanations and CGI effects.
Some of the cases that will be covered include death from eating a jalapeno pepper; a simple scrape-turned-flesh-eating virus; and a man trapped in an avalanche with plenty of food and water, only to succumb to methane poisoning from too much of his own gas.
1000 Ways to Die is executive produced by Thom Beers, whose reality credentials include Deadliest Catch, Lobster Wars and Monster Garage for Discovery Channel and Ice Road Truckers for History Channel.
"We may not readily admit it, but we all have a strange fascination with death, particularly all the gruesome details of how it occurs," said Beers. "The bizarre humor in some of these cases is undeniable."
1000 Ways to Die originally aired on Spike TV in May as a two-part special. However it averaged 1.0 million total viewers and a 0.9 rating in the Males 18-34 demographic -- pretty good numbers for the network -- leading Spike TV to order 10 episodes of it.
"We are thrilled to be in the Thom Beers business," said Spike TV executive Sharon Levy. "We loved the special and Thom's vision for the series combines all the things our audience wants -- outrageousness, water cooler facts and a never-before-seen-on-TV quality."
1000 Ways to Die is currently slated to debut in the fall.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 31, 2008 - 01:06 PM EST
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Ashley Dupre may be moving closer to a reality television role, however the focus of any potential project has apparently shifted.
The 23-year-old call girl who was at the center of the Eliot Spitzer prostitution scandal earlier this year has been approached about a new $2 million deal from Los Angeles-based reality television producer David Krieff, The New York Post reported Sunday.
While Dupre had previously been in talks to be "the next Tila Tequila" for a new MTV reality dating series, Krieff said that isn't the direction his potential client wants to go in.
"[The MTV approach was] not what Ashley's people want for her," he told The Post. "They want something that shows the positive things in her life, that maybe cleans up her image."
Instead the series would reportedly focus on Dupre's family life and career goals, which vary from journalism to lounge singing.
"She also has a strong desire to give to a charity," Krieff told The Post. "She's very analytical. She wants to help people. She sees herself as a kind of Dr. Phil."
Krieff said he approached Dupre two weeks ago after receiving a letter of commitment from an entertainment network and a major studio interested in the infamous call girl, according to The Post.
Since then, Krieff told The Post he has been in discussions with Dupre's lawyers and publicists about a potential deal that could carry more weight than just a reality series.
"It's a seven-figure deal," Krieff told The Post. "There could be a book. It's an overall exclusive-rights deal. As far as I know, it's the only deal she's considering."
It could also include a two-hour interview with Dupre in which she would discuss the February scandal involving Spitzer, which led to his resignation as governor of New York.
The deal could be signed within the next two weeks, according to The Post.
Krieff's reality resume isn't exactly glowing, as he has previously brought together Amy Fisher and the Buttafuocos for a television special and also produced a similar special reuniting Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, July 28, 2008 - 02:34 PM EST
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Angela Shapiro-Mathes' short stint as TLC's president has come to a close.
Shapiro-Mathes left her position at the Discovery Communications-owned cable network after just 15 months on the job, The Hollywood Reporter reported Friday, adding sources claimed Discovery was unhappy with TLC's "creative direction."
"My thanks to Angela for her hard work, leadership and passion over the past year," Discovery president David Zaslav told The Reporter. "She has diversified TLC's programming mix and increased the network's development presence in Los Angeles."
Shapiro-Mathes replaced David Abraham at TLC in April 2007 and subsequently oversaw the network's re-branding effort earlier this year.
It focused on TLC's "real-life" content and included both new and returning programs packaged into nights themed around subject matter geared towards the home viewing audience and advertisers. In addition, she also shifted the network's programming operations from Discovery's headquarters in Silver Springs, MD to Los Angeles.
However TLC failed to produce a breakout hit during Shapiro-Mathes' term and sources told The Reporter some of the network's resources will likely move back to Maryland "to regain efficiencies that come with having multiple channels under one roof."
Shapiro-Mathes will be replaced by Eileen O'Neill, who served as TLC's interim general manager between Abraham and Shapiro-Mathes, according to The Reporter. Most recently O'Neill had helmed Discovery's newly launched Planet Green network, which will now be run by Clark Bunting.
Prior to her Planet Green and interim TLC roles, O'Neill served as general manager of Discovery's Fit TV and Discovery Health networks. While running Discovery Health she developed Jon & Kate Plus 8, which now ranks as TLC's top-rated series. (After airing its first two seasons on Discovery Health, Jon & Kate Plus 8 moved over to TLC earlier this year.)
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, July 28, 2008 - 01:52 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Friday, July 25, 2008 - 11:03 PM EST
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Elizabeth Berkley is reportedly ready to help empower young girls via a new reality series.
The Step It Up & Dance host and her husband Greg Lauren are working with MTV to develop a new reality series based on Berkley's self-empowerment workshops for adolescent girls, The Hollywood Reporter reported Friday.
"She does these workshops around the country with teen girls and gets them to really open up about their issues, like self-esteem and body issues," MTV development executive Amy Bailey told The Reporter. "We had been looking for a program that tackled the same issues, so it seemed like a perfect match."
The series is tentatively titled Ask-Elizabeth -- the name of Berkley's workshops and companion website.
Through Ask-Elizabeth, Berkley has volunteered her time at schools and youth organizations around the country for the last two-and-a-half years by facilitating workshops that help empower girls between the ages of 11 and 17.
She approached MTV about the idea for the series, which is being developed by the network's News & Docs division, according to The Reporter.
"It'll be more than just films of her workshops," Bailey told The Reporter. "It'll probably be more verite, where we'll film with Elizabeth and girls around the country in their own hometowns and watch as the events unfold."
MTV is hoping to film a pilot for the series this fall, Bailey told The Reporter.
In addition to serving as the host for Bravo's Step It Up & Dance reality series this past spring, Berkley also has a recurring role on CBS' CSI: Miami. She also recently wrapped production on the films S. Darko and The Butler's in Love.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, July 25, 2008 - 07:29 AM EST
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Chris Brown has teamed with two veteran reality television producers for a new dance-themed competition series.
The R&B singer has partnered with producers Mark Burnett and J.D. Roth to create a new reality competition series that will focus on the hip-hop and street dance cultures, Daily Variety reported Wednesday.
"Dancing is more than just a way of moving, it's a different expression of music," Brown told Variety. "That's what I want to focus on with this show."
The currently untitled series will be executive produced by Burnett and Roth via their production companies -- Mark Burnett Productions and 3 Ball Productions, respectively -- and they plan on pitching the project to broadcast and cable networks next week, according to Variety.
"We wanted to do a show really badly in the hip-hop/R&B world of dance," Roth told Variety. "We went after [Brown] to be involved in the show and made sure it was Chris Brown Presents so that he's really invested in the show."
The series would reportedly pit contestants against each other in impromptu dance-offs. While additional judges may also be involved, Brown would appear in every episode to determine which contestants move on to the next round, according Variety.
"Chris Brown really is a superstar, and someone who lives and breathes music and dance, so his credibility is massive in this arena," Burnett told Variety. "It's his show; he's headlining it. He's the final arbiter on those who win and those who don't."
Similar to Fox's So You Think You Can Dance, the series is being developed as an hour-long performance series that will also feature a weekly elimination episode, Variety reported.
3 Ball Productions had already been courting Brown for the project when Burnett inquired about a potential partnership, according to Variety.
The collaboration represents the first time Burnett and 3 Ball have worked together. Both have lengthy lists of reality credentials, with Burnett most notably responsible for Survivor and The Apprentice and Roth for The Biggest Loser and Beauty and the Geek.
Brown's best reality connection comes from American Idol sixth-season champ Jordin Sparks -- with whom he recorded the hit single "No Air." Brown and Sparks performed the song during an Idol seventh-season broadcast this past spring. He has also appeared on an episode of MTV's My Super Sweet 16.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 24, 2008 - 03:37 PM EST
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Sci Fi Channel has announced it is developing four new reality series: Soul Evidence, Danger Game, Relic Quest and Escape.
Soul Evidence will follow Allison Dubois -- the pyschic who served as the real-life inspiration for Patricia Arquette's character on NBC's Medium drama -- as she leads a team of psychics, scientists and investigators to solve cold case murders.
The tentatively-titled series is being produced by Red 23 Entertainment, with Dubois, Sam Korkis, Mark Ganshirt and Garry Hart serving as executive producers.
Danger Game will take viewers behind the scenes of Modern Reality Adventures, a secretive organization that -- similar to the 1997 The Game film that starred Michael Douglas -- specializes in creating alternate reality experiences for their clients.
Each Danger Game episode will follow the MRA as they construct unnervingly realistic scenarios within the everyday life of one unaware client who will eventually have the faux situation revealed to them. Danger Game is being produced by Superfine Films.
Relic Quest will do just what its title implies and follow producer/director Bruce Burgess as he attempts to uncover artifacts fabled to hold hidden powers and mystical significance for both ancient and modern cultures.
Relic Quest is being produced by Bluebook Films.
Escape is a Solitary-esque competition that will feature three contestants must complete a series of physical challenges, decipher riddles and break codes in order to escape a locked room. The longer the contestants' time in confinement continues, the more their eventual prize money decreases.
Escape is being produced by soon-to-be-former Project Runway production company Magical Elves, with Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz serving as executive producers.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, July 22, 2008 - 04:54 PM EST
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If The Weinstein Company was already upset that Bravo copied Project Runway's format to create other non-Weinstein produced shows like Top Chef, Top Design, and Shear Genius, then it's certainly not going to be happy about this.
In a move the Project Runway rightsholder will likely consider a transparent attempt to prevent allegations that the network is developing a knockoff version of the flagship reality series it's losing to Lifetime, Bravo has announced it is developing an American adaptation of Fashion House, a long-forgotten European reality competition series that featured teams of designers living together and creating entire lines of fashion designs.
Fashion House aired for seven weeks in Fall 2003 -- more than a year before Project Runway debuted on Bravo in December 2004 -- and featured 20 young European designers that were organized into four five-person teams representing the U.K., Italy, Sweden, and France competing against each other at a "fashion house" set within Rome's Costume and Fashion Academy.
Similar to other reality talent competitions, industry experts and celebrity guests reviewed the contestants designs and shared their feedback with home viewers, who then voted for their favorites via text-messaging, telephone voting and interactive television.
Four designers survived the eliminations and made it to the finale, which featured a full-scale fashion show of the finalists' collections. The winning designer -- who received an internship with British designer Stella McCartney -- was then determined via the combination of home viewer voting and an "international jury" that attended the fashion show. Versace also manufactured one of the original outfits from the winner's collection under its Versus label, however additional editions of the show were never produced.
According Bravo, its Fashion House adaptation will follow a format similar to the European original and feature "teams of designers" living together and "replicat[ing] the workings of the fashion business through a fashion house by designing an entire, cohesive line."
Similar to Project Runway's designs, the collections will be "created on [a] deadline." However unlike Runway, the designs will be "presented to commercial buyers with the opportunity of having the designers' line mass marketed" -- which would seem to well with Bravo's move to expand into merchandising and find ways to "participate in the [financial] upside" of the post-show success of its reality contestants.
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Posted by: Steve Rogers and Christopher Rocchio on Monday, July 21, 2008 - 08:56 AM EST
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Eighteen reality television shows received a total of 50 nominations in today's announcement of the 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards nominees -- with the number of shows and the amount of total nominations representing the highest figures ever for both.
Leading the 2007-2008 reality TV Emmy Awards nomination field for the second consecutive year is ABC's Dancing with the Stars, which received eight nominations from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences -- the same number it received last year.
However Dancing with the Stars is hoping for a reversal of fortune, as it was shut out in all eight categories it received 2006-2007 Emmy nominations in. Dancing with the Stars received six nominations in its first season in 2005-2006 and won two.
Despite airing only one edition during the 2007-2008 season, CBS' The Amazing Race -- the most successful reality show at the Emmys with 10 statuettes (including three last year) -- received six nominations, placing it second behind only Dancing with the Stars. The Amazing Race had been nominated for five Emmys for three straight years before earning six nods this year.
Most notably, The Amazing Race was once again been nominated in the Outstanding Reality-Competition Program category, which it has won every year since the Academy first created the Emmy Awards category five years ago.
Despite The Amazing Race's Emmy dominance, show host Phil Keoghan failed to receive a nod in the Academy's new Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality-Competition Program category.
American Idol host Ryan Seacrest; Dancing with the Stars host Tom Bergeron; Deal or No Deal host Howie Mandel; Project Runway host Heidi Klum; and Survivor host Jeff Probst were announced as the inaugural set of nominees for the first-year category.
While American Idol was able to snap its Emmy losing streak last year, the Fox mega-hit actually saw its number of nominations decrease for the third year in a row -- from eight in 2005-2006 to seven last year and to five this year.
American Idol has been nominated for 34 Primetime Emmy Awards since it was first eligible in 2003 but has won only one, which came last year and was awarded to the show's first annual Idol Gives Back charity event.
Bravo's Project Runway received its highest total of nominations ever with five. This is the show's fourth year of eligibility. Project Runway had received three nods for each of the last two years and one in its first year, however the show has yet to record a win and is 0 for 7.
Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch received four nominations for the second consecutive year after receiving three in its first year of eligibility. Deadliest Catch's nomination haul was also tied by Fox's So You Think You Can Dance, which went 2 for 2 in Emmy victories last year, its second of eligibility.
CBS' Survivor received three nominations, up two from the single nomination it received last year, which was the first time the show had ever received fewer than four nods.
However Survivor was left out of the running for the Outstanding Reality-Competition Program award for the second consecutive year and only the second time since the category was created in 2003. Survivor was first Emmy Award eligible in 2001 when it received five nominations and scored two wins. It has not been victorious since then.
Bravo's Top Chef also received three nominations in its third year of eligibility, which is up from the two nominations it received last year.
ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition received two nominations for the second year in a row, including its third straight nod in the Outstanding Reality Program category. While Extreme Makeover: Home Edition won the award in 2005-2006 and in 2006-2007, Bravo's Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List claimed the category last year.
My Life on the D-List will have a chance to repeat as the show has once again received a nod in the Outstanding Reality Program category, as did A&E's Intervention, which received a total of two nominations. In addition, Discovery Channel's Dirty Jobs received its first nod in the Outstanding Reality Program category.
My Life on the D-List, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Intervention and Dirty Jobs will compete for the Outstanding Reality Program Emmy against PBS' Antiques Roadshow, which -- despite the Academy's categorization -- would not normally be considered "reality TV" by most television viewers. Antiques Roadshow has received a nod in the category for four consecutive years.
In addition to My Life on the D-List and Dirty Jobs, also rounding out the nominations with one apiece are Fox's Hell's Kitchen; History's Ice Road Truckers; CBS' Kid Nation and Pirate Master; A&E's Little People, Big World; and Animal Planet's Meerkat Manor.
The 50 2007-2008 primetime season reality TV nominations (which required a program to air by May 31, 2008) continued the genre's upswing from 39 nominations in 2007-2008; 34 nominations in 2005-06; 26 nominations in 2004-05; 23 nominations in 2003-04; and 11 nominations in 2002-2003 -- the first year that a formal "reality TV" category was introduced to the Emmys.
The 18 shows nominated is also up from the 14 programs nominated in 2007, the eight programs nominated in 2006, and the nine programs nominated in each of the two previous years.
In the network reality TV race, CBS was able to edge both ABC and Fox in total nominations by a score of 11 to 10, with Bravo scoring eight nods and NBC having none for the second straight year.
The largest number of Emmys presented to reality shows for a single primetime season happened just last year, when The Amazing Race received three, So You Think You Can Dance received two, and American Idol and My Life on the D-List each won one for a total of seven. It bested the previous record of five, which occurred in 2006-2007 when The Amazing Race won three and Dancing with the Stars was awarded two.
Thanks to this year's nominations, the top five reality television programs in all-time Emmy nominations has also changed.
Taking the top spot from Survivor (33) is American Idol (34), while The Amazing Race (26) remained in third and Dancing with the Stars (22) stayed in fourth. Project Runway (12) entered the Top 5 for the first time, bumping out The Apprentice (8).
The 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards will be presented on Saturday, September 13 (in the "creative arts" categories) and Sunday, September 21 (in the "major" categories, including Outstanding Reality-competition Program).
A complete list of reality TV nominees for the 2007-08 Emmy Awards can be found here.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 17, 2008 - 01:11 PM EST
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The following is a complete list of reality TV nominations for the 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, to be presented on September 13 and 21.
Nominations were received in 22 different categories:
1. Outstanding Art Direction For Variety, Music Or Nonfiction Programming
- Hell's Kitchen - Episode 401 - FOX - Granada America
John R. Janavs, Production Designer
Robert Frye, Art Director
Stephen Paul Fackrell, Set Decorator
2. Outstanding Choreography
- Dancing With The Stars - Mambo/"Para Los Rumberos" - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
Julianne Hough, Choreographer
- So You Think You Can Dance - Hummingbird and Flower/"The Chairman's Waltz" - FOX- 19 TV Ltd and Dick Clark Productions
Wade Robson, Choreographer
- So You Think You Can Dance - Transformers/"Fuego" - FOX - 19 TV Ltd and Dick Clark Productions
Shane Sparks, Choreographer
- So You Think You Can Dance - Table/"Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)" - FOX - 19 TV Ltd and Dick Clark Productions
Mandy Moore, Choreographer
3. Outstanding Cinematography For Nonfiction Programming
- Deadliest Catch - "No Mercy" - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, Inc. in association with Discovery Channel
Cinematography Team
- Ice Road Truckers - "Ready To Roll" - History Channel - Produced by Original Productions, LLC for History Channel, A&E Television Networks
Cinematography Team
- Meerkat Manor - "Journey's End" - Animal Planet - An Oxford Scientific Films / Animal Planet production
Ted Gilfords, Camera
John Waters, Camera
Ralph Bower, Camera
4. Outstanding Cinematography For Reality Programming
- The Amazing Race - "Honestly, They Have Witch Powers Or Something" - CBS - Amazing Race Productions Inc. and ABC Studios in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and WorldRace Productions, Inc.
Per Larsson, Director of Photography
Sylvester Campe, Camera
Tom Cunningham, Camera
Lucas Kenna Mertes, Camera
Peter Rieveschl, Camera
- Project Runway - "En Garde!" - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Derth Adams, Camera
Mo Frahm, Camera
John Armstrong, Camera
Marcus Bleeker, Camera
David Vlasits, Camera
- Survivor - "Just Don't Eat The Apple" - CBS - Mark Burnett Productions in association with SEG Productions
Cinematography Team
- Top Chef - "Finale (Part 1)" - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Paul Starkman, Director of Photography
5. Outstanding Directing For Nonfiction Programming
- The Amazing Race - "Honestly, They Have Witch Powers Or Something" - CBS - Amazing Race Productions Inc. and ABC Studios in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and WorldRace Productions, Inc.
Bertram van Munster, Director
- Project Runway - "En Garde! - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Tony Sacco, Director
6. Outstanding Picture Editing Of Clip Packages For Talk, Performance, Award Or A Reality-Competition Program
- American Idol - Episode 733 (David Cook Goes Home) - FOX - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Bill DeRonde, Editor
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 610 (Head To Head Package) - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
David Timoner, Editor
7. Outstanding Picture Editing For Nonfiction Programming
- Deadliest Catch - "No Mercy" - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, Inc. in association with Discovery Channel
Kelly Coskran, Supervising Editor
Rob Butler, Editor
8. Outstanding Picture Editing For Reality Programming
- The Amazing Race - "Honestly, They Have Witch Powers Or Something" - CBS - Amazing Race Productions Inc. and ABC Studios in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and WorldRace Productions, Inc.
Steven Escobar, Editor
Eric Goldfarb, Editor
Julian Gomez, Editor
Andy Kozar, Editor
Jenny Nelson, Editor
Paul Nielsen, Editor
Jacob Parsons, Editor
- Extreme Makeover: Home Edition - "The Hughes Family" - ABC - Endemol USA
Wes Paster, Supervising Editor
Matt Deitrich, Lead Editor
Tenna Guthrie, Editor
Phil Stubin, Editor
Jason Cherella, Editor
Hilary Scratch, Editor
Steve Mellon, Editor
- Project Runway - "En Garde!" - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Jamie Pedroza, Editor
Bri Dellinger, Editor
Steve Lichtenstein, Editor
Andy Robertson, Editor
Clark Vogeler, Editor
LaRonda Morris, Editor
Joe Mastromonaco, Editor
- Survivor - "He's A Ball Of Goo!" - CBS - Mark Burnett Productions in association with SEG Productions
Brian Barefoot, Supervising Editor
Robert D. Matthews, Editor
Chad Bertalotto, Editor
Andrew Bolhuis, Editor
Evan Mediuch, Editor
Steve Frederick, Editor
Eric Van Wagenen, Editor
- Top Chef - "First Impressions" - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Kevin Leffler, Editor
Vikash Patel, Editor
Marc Clark, Editor
Annie Tighe, Editor
Steve Lichtenstein, Editor
Sue Hoover, Editor
Katherine Griffin, Editor
9. Outstanding Hairstyling For A Multi-Camera Series Or A Special
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 510A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
Mary Guerrero, Department Head Hairstylist
Lucia Mace, Key Hairstylist
Cynthia P. Romo, Additional Hairstylist
Maria Valdivia, Additional Hairstylist
10. Outstanding Lighting Direction (Electronic, Multi-Camera) For VMC Programming
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 510A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
Simon Miles, Lighting Designer
11. Outstanding Makeup For A Multi-Camera Series Or A Special (Non-Prosthetic)
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 503 - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
Melanie Mills, Department Head Makeup Artist
Zena Shteysel, Key Makeup Artist
Patty Ramsey, Additional Makeup Artist
Nadege Schoenfeld, Additional Makeup Artist
- So You Think You Can Dance - Episode 311 - FOX - 19 TV Ltd and Dick Clark Productions
Amy Strozzi, Department Head Makeup Artist
Heather Cummings, Additional Makeup Artist
Tifanie White, Additional Makeup Artist
Crystal Wolfchild, Additional Makeup Artist
12. Outstanding Music Composition For A Series (Original Dramatic Score)
- Little People, Big World - "Roloff Road Trip: Grand Canyon" - TLC - Gay Rosenthal Productions in association with TLC
Joey Newman, Original Music
13. Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music
- Kid Nation - Episode 101 - CBS - Forman Productions
Jeff Lippencott, Series Original Music
Mark T. Williams, Series Original music
- Pirate Master - Episode 102 - CBS - Mark Burnett Productions
Russ Landau, Composer
14. Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality-Competition Program
- American Idol - FOX - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Ryan Seacrest, Host
- Dancing With The Stars - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
Tom Bergeron, Host
- Deal Or No Deal - NBC - Endemol USA
Howie Mandel, Host
- Project Runway - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Heidi Klum, Host
- Survivor - CBS - Mark Burnett Productions in association with SEG Productions
Jeff Probst, Host
15. Outstanding Nonfiction Series
- Deadliest Catch - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, Inc. in association with Discovery Channel
Thom Beers, Executive Producer
Paul Gasek, Executive Producer
Jeff Conroy, Co-Executive Producer
Tracy Rudolph, Co-Executive Producer
Matt Renner, Series Producer
Lisa Tanzer, Supervising Producer
Ethan Prochnik, Senior Producer
16. Outstanding Reality Program
- Antiques Roadshow - PBS - WGBH Educational Foundation
Marsha Bemko, Executive Producer
Sam Farrell, Supervising Producer
- Dirty Jobs - Discovery Channel - Pilgrim Films and Television, Inc in association with Discovery Channel
Craig Piligian, Executive Producer
Eddie Barbini, Executive Producer
Mary Donahue, Executive Producer
Eddie Rohwedder, Supervising Producer
Mike Rowe, Producer
Leigh Purinton, Producer
- Extreme Makeover: Home Edition - ABC - Endemol USA
Denise Cramsey, Executive Producer
Conrad L. Ricketts, Executive Producer
Dan Morando, Co-Executive Producer
Brady Connell, Co-Executive Producer
Max Swedlow, Supervising Producer
Diane Korman, Senior Producer
Herb Ankrom, Producer
Matt Fisher, Producer
Jeanne Kazumi Petrone, Produced by
- Intervention - A&E - GRB Entertainment, A&E Television Network
Gary R. Benz, Executive Producer
Michael Branton, Executive Producer
Bryn Freedman, Executive Producer
Sam Mettler, Executive Producer
Dan Partland, Executive Producer
Robert Sharenow, Executive Producer For A&E
Colleen Conway, Executive Producer For A&E
Karen Pinto, Supervising Producer
Jeff Grogan, Supervising Producer
- Kathy Griffin: My Life On The D-List - Bravo - Picture This Television
Marci Mulé, Executive Producer
Bryan Scott, Executive Producer
Lisa M. Tucker, Executive Producer
Kathy Griffin, Executive Producer
Cori Abraham, Executive Producer
Frances Berwick, Executive Producer
Amy Introcaso-Davis, Executive Producer
Christopher Carlson, Supervising Producer
Amy Kohn, Supervising Producer
17. Outstanding Reality-Competition Program
- The Amazing Race - CBS - Amazing Race Productions Inc. and ABC Studios in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and WorldRace Productions, Inc.
Jerry Bruckheimer, Executive Producer
Bertram van Munster, Executive Producer
Jonathan Littman, Executive Producer
Hayma ‘Screech' Washington, Executive Producer
Amy Nabseth Chacon, Co-Executive Producer
Elise Doganieri, Co-Executive Producer
Bill Pruitt, Supervising Producer
Matt Schmidt, Supervising Producer
Mark Vertullo, Supervising Producer
Jarratt Carson, Senior Producer
Giselle Parets, Senior Producer
Phil Keoghan, Producer
- American Idol - FOX - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Nigel Lythgoe, Executive Producer
Ken Warwick, Executive Producer
Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Executive Producer
Simon Fuller, Executive Producer
- Dancing With The Stars - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
Conrad Green, Executive Producer
Rob Wade, Co-Executive Producer
Matilda Zoltowski, Co-Executive Producer
Michael Brooks, Senior Producer
Ashley Edens, Senior Producer
Joe Sungkur, Senior Producer
Victoria Guinto, Producer
Erin O'Brien, Producer
Kim Kilby, Producer
Natalie Watts, Producer
- Project Runway - Bravo - Magical Elves for The Weinstein Company, Full Picture, Bravo
Bob Weinstein, Executive Producer
Dan Cutforth, Executive Producer
Jane Lipsitz, Executive Producer
Heidi Klum, Executive Producer
Jane Cha, Executive Producer
Desiree Gruber, Executive Producer
Rich Bye, Executive Producer
Rich Buhrman, Co-Executive Producer
Barbara Schneeweiss, Producer
Andy Cohen, Executive Producer
Shari Levine, Executive Producer
Casey Kriley, Co-Executive Producer
Andrew Wallace, Supervising Producer
Michael Rucker, Supervising Producer
Ben Mack, Senior Producer
Steve Lichtenstein, Producer
- Top Chef - Bravo - Magical Elves, Bravo
Dan Cutforth, Executive Producer
Jane Lipsitz, Executive Producer
Shauna Minoprio, Executive Producer
Frances Berwick, Executive Producer
Andrew Cohen, Executive Producer
Dave Serwatka, Executive Producer
Rich Buhrman, Co-Executive Producer
Gaylen Gawlowski, Supervising Producer
Nan Strait, Supervising Producer
Scott Shatsky, Supervising Producer
Andrew Wallace, Supervising Producer
Liz Cook, Supervising Producer
18. Outstanding Sound Editing For Nonfiction Programming (Single Or Multi-Camera)
- The Amazing Race - "Honestly, They Have Witch Powers Or Something" - CBS - Amazing Race Productions Inc. and ABC Studios in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and WorldRace Productions, Inc.
Eric Goldfarb, Sound Editor
Andy Kozar, Sound Editor
Paul Nielsen, Sound Editor
Jacob Parsons, Sound Editor
Steven Escobar, Sound Editor
Julian Gomez, Sound Editor
Rick Livingstone, Music Editor
19. Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Variety, Music Series Or A Special
- American Idol - Finale - FOX - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Edward J. Greene, Production Mixer
Randy Faustino, Music Mixer
Andrew Fletcher, PA Mixer
Mike Parker, Monitor Mixer
Gary Long, Playback Music Mixer
Brian Riordan, Pre-Production Packages Mixer
Conner Moore, Pre-Production Packages Mixer
Christian Schrader, Audience Sweetener
20. Outstanding Sound Mixing For Nonfiction Programming (Single Or Multi-Camera)
- The Amazing Race - "Honestly, They Have Witch Powers Or Something" - CBS - Amazing Race Productions Inc. and ABC Studios in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and WorldRace Productions, Inc.
Jim Ursulak, Lead Audio Mixer
Jerry Chabane, Audio Mixer
Dean Gaveau, Audio Mixer
Troy Smith, Re-Recording Mixer
- Deadliest Catch - "No Mercy" - Discovery Channel - Original Productions, Inc. in association with Discovery Channel
Bob Bronow, Re-Recording Mixer
21. Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control For A Series
- Dancing With The Stars - Episode 502A - ABC - BBC Worldwide Productions, LLC
Charles Ciup, Technical Director
Brian Reason, Camera Operator
Hector Ramirez, Camera Operator
James Karidas, Camera Operator
Dave Levisohn, Camera Operator
Larry Heider, Camera Operator
Bettina Levesque, Camera Operator
Dave Hilmer, Camera Operator
Damien Tuffereau, Camera Operator
Easter Xua, Camera Operator
Mike Malone, Camera Operator
Chuck Reilly, Video Control
22. Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control For A Miniseries, Movie Or A Special
- American Idol - Idol Gives Back - FOX - FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Shiran Stotland, Technical Director
Eric Becker, Technical Director
David Eastwood, Camera
Marc Hunter, Camera
Bobby Highton, Camera
Brian Reason, Camera
Easter Xua, Camera
Danny Bonilla, Camera
George Prince, Camera
Ed Horton, Camera
John Repczynski, Camera
Suzanne Ebner, Camera
Diane Beiderbeck, Camera
Bill Chaikowski, Camera
Alex Hernandez, Camera
Mark Sanford, Video Control
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 17, 2008 - 01:10 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, July 10, 2008 - 05:29 PM EST
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Bio Channel announced it has ordered Female Forces, a new Cops-like reality series that will follow the ladies in blue employed by the Naperville Police Department.
Each episode of Female Forces will give viewers an in-the-squad car view of what it's like to work as one of the 18 female police officers in Naperville -- a Chicago suburb -- as they fight a variety of crime ranging from shootings and fights to public drunkenness and traffic violations.
Female Forces is being produced for Bio Channel by The Greif Company, with Gene Simmons, Leslie Greif, Adam Reed and Adam Freedman serving as executive producers.
Bio Channel announced Female Forces as part of an aggressive primetime programming slate that includes three other new original series.
In addition to Female Forces, Bio Channel also ordered the William Shatner-fronted talk show Shatner's Raw Nerve, The Chris Isaak Hour and Why I Ran.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, July 10, 2008 - 02:15 PM EST
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Ashley Dupre apparently wants to go from infamous call girl to reality starlet.
The 23-year-old call girl who was at the center of the Eliot Spitzer prostitution scandal earlier this year is developing a cable reality series, E! News reported Monday.
While a Dupre rep told E! News that his client "has no TV deal" a source told the outlet that she is developing a reality show with Handprint Entertainment production executives.
"They're talking to MTV about Ashley being the next Tila Tequila," a source close to the project told E! News.
MTV declined comment and Handprint Entertainment executives could not be reached, E! News reported.
Dupre dropped her lawsuit against Girls Gone Wild CEO Joe Francis last week, and a statement released by her lawyer hints that it was done so she could turn over a new leaf.
"Ms. Dupre wants to eliminate all negativity from her life and focus on the positive. She has prospects for many exciting new projects and is looking forward to starting a new chapter," her lawyer Richard C. Wolfe said in the statement to E! News.
After the scandal involving Dupre and Spitzer -- which led to his resignation as governor of New York --Donald Trump was reportedly interested in casting Dupre for Lady or a Tramp, a new MTV reality series that will send a group of contemporary women to a boarding school environment where they'll learn about self-improvement and female empowerment techniques.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 03:03 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, July 08, 2008 - 05:02 AM EST
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One of the first families of reality television is apparently planning on making a comeback.
Fox has ordered an hour-long variety show hosted by former The Osbournes co-stars Ozzy, Sharon, Kelly and Jack Osbourne, Daily Variety reported Sunday.
The currently untitled series will include musical performances and comedy sketches blended with game show, studio audience participation and out-of-studio taped elements -- giving it a similar feel to classic variety shows like CBS' The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour and ABC's Donny and Marie, Fox alternative programming executive Mike Darnell told Variety.
"We've been talking about how to renew the variety show concept and make it feel new for years now," he told Variety.
The six-episode series will be produced by FremantleMedia North America with James Sunderland serving as executive producer. Sunderland currently serves as an executive producer for Fremantle's America's Got Talent on NBC, for which Sharon serves as a judge.
"[It will] tap into what the Osbournes do best, which is be themselves," Fremantle Media North America executive Eugene Young told Variety.
Multiple networks bid on the show after Fremantle circulated a DVD that featured comedy bits of the Osbourne clan, according to Variety, which reported it was subsequently snagged by Fox partially because Sharon and Darnell had mutual conceptual ideas for it.
The series will film in Los Angeles and could debut with a Christmas special, Darnell told Variety, adding any discussions about scheduling -- including if it would serve as a companion for American Idol -- would be premature.
The Osbournes' first season premiered on MTV in March 2002 and it won the 2002 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Non-Fiction Program (Reality). The show subsequently aired three more seasons.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, July 07, 2008 - 11:52 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, June 26, 2008 - 04:57 AM EST
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It may not be a buyer's market, but reality producer Mark Burnett has reportedly found an interested customer in his production company.
IMG is reportedly interested in purchasing Mark Burnett Productions and negotiations are starting to get serious, Daily Variety reported Sunday.
Burnett has reportedly been shopping his production company for several months and has had discussions with various interested parties, however the hefty $400 million price tag he's placed on it has apparently scared off some buyers, according to Variety.
IMG declined to comment on talks with Burnett's company, but Deadline Hollywood Daily reported late Thursday that IMG chairman Teddy Forstmann has been "heavily courting" Burnett, according to Variety.
Should IMG's attempt to purchase Mark Burnett Prods. eventually prove to be successful, Variety reported it's unknown how much the producer would receive.
However investment insiders familiar with the deal told Variety it would be a win-win situation for both Burnett and IMG -- with the production company able to make a splash in the domestic television market and Burnett allowed to take advantage of IMG's global market.
Meanwhile IMG already runs two U.K. production companies -- Tiger Aspect and Darlow Smithson -- and also holds broadcast rights to several sports events. IMG produces and distributes more than 11,000 hours of programming a year, according to Variety.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, June 23, 2008 - 11:17 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Thursday, June 19, 2008 - 09:53 PM EST
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Janet Jackson has apparently decided to jump into the realm of reality television.
Jackson is currently developing a new reality competition series with 25/7 Productions for MTV that will follow the singer as she mentors a group of aspiring singers and dancers, Daily Variety reported Wednesday.
"It's really about finding who's the next Janet Jackson or Justin Timberlake or Usher," executive producer Dave Broome told Variety. "And we'll find it from a pool of people who you wouldn't typically find it from. We'll go to YMCAs, church groups, local community centers and try to cast the show."
Filming for the currently untitled project will commence in the coming months, Variety reported. Instead of being shot in a studio sound stage, Variety reported the show will be filmed on various street locations.
Producers are also in the process of finalizing a prize package for the winner -- and Variety reported it could possibly relate to her Rock Witchu world tour, which begins September 10 in Vancouver.
Despite acting credentials in films from Poetic Justice to Nutty Professor II: The Klumps and television roles including Good Times and Diff'rent Strokes, Jackson has never starred in a reality series before.
The untitled series was created by Jackson and Gil Duldulao, with both serving as executive producers along with Broome, Kenneth Crear and Johnny Wright.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, June 19, 2008 - 05:47 AM EST
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The N has announced The N's Student Body, a new reality competition series hosted by Laila Ali that will follow a group of teens attempting to whip their lives into shape, will premiere Friday, July 11 at 10PM ET/PT.
Following its debut, the eight-episode series will move to its regular Sundays at 8PM ET/PT time period beginning July 13.
The N's Student Body will bring together 12 students from rival high schools in Decatur, IL, with the ultimate goal being to achieve a healthier lifestyle through diet, exercise, volunteer work and academics.
The winning student will receive $25,000 to be used for new programs and facilities at his or her school.
"The N's Student Body is a reality TV series with a positive point-of-view, 'reality with morality' we like to say," said The N executive Sarah Tomassi Lindman. "Our viewers will find themselves cheering on these remarkable teens as they strive to get into shape and change their lives."
The N's Student Body is one of a few places viewers can catch Ali this summer.
The Dancing with the Stars fourth-season celebrity participant -- who finished third with professional partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy during the May 2007 installment of the series -- currently co-hosts NBC's American Gladiators and is also working as a contributing correspondent for CBS' The Early Show.
The N's Student Body is produced by Reveille and is executive produced by The N along with Reveille's Mark Koops, Dave Broome of 25/7 Productions and NBC Entertainment and NBC Universal Media Studios co-chairman Ben Silverman.
The N's Student Body's July 11 premiere will air immediately after the network's debut of Queen Bees, another new reality series that will take seven self-centered girls who have been nominated by family members and friends in the hopes that they will better themselves from the inside out. The girl that changes the most will win $25,000.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 - 09:21 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, June 16, 2008 - 08:13 PM EST
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Bravo has apparently decided to take a chance and wade into Kid Nation's cooking grease-splattered waters.
The network has announced it's developing Top Chef Junior, a new Top Chef spinoff that will follow a similar format to the culinary competition series but instead feature contestants most likely between the ages of 13- and 16-years-old.
"With Top Chef as the number one food show on cable comes the natural expansion in our food domain," said Bravo Media executive Frances Berwick. "With Top Chef Junior we're reaching a growing market and are developing a series that will teach and test the skills of younger aspiring chefs and appeal to the whole family."
Top Chef Junior will be produced by Top Chef producers Magical Elves and executive produced by Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz and consist of eight episodes.
According to a Bravo spokesperson, the network hasn't determined any additional show details yet, including whether Top Chef's host or judges will be part of the spinoff.
Top Chef premiered on Bravo in March 2006 and has since aired three more editions. Bravo recently renewed Top Chef for a fifth season and casting is currently underway.
Top Chef Junior won't represent the first time a network aired a spinoff of a reality series featuring younger contestants, as Fox aired an American Idol spin-off in Summer 2003 called American Juniors.
Created by Simon Fuller and hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the show followed a similar format to Idol but featured contestants 16-years-old or younger.
American Juniors premiered well -- averaging 11.7 million total viewers -- and Fox had initially planned to air a second season in Fall 2003. However the show sagged in the ratings each subsequent week and ultimately attracted less than half of its premiere audience for its finale, causing Fox to drop the show from its fall schedule.
Kid Nation, which aired on CBS last fall, featured 40 young "pioneers" living on their own in the remains of Bonanza City, NM -- an alleged "uninhabited ghost town" -- for 40 days. Critics savaged the series, citing concerns about endangerment and exploitation of the children, which were all between 8 and 15 years old.
One of the main issues that had fueled criticism of the series was a letter in which Janis Miles, the mother of a 12-year-old female participant, told the New Mexico Attorney General's Office that her daughter had been in the face with grease while cooking potatoes on a wood stove and four other children had required medical attention after they accidentally drank bleach.
Kid Nation producer Tom Forman acknowledged the grease-spattering and bleach-sipping incidents took place but noted that the incidents could have happened "in any kitchen, in any school, in any home, in any camp" and the children had all immediately received medical attention.
The attorney general's office launched an inquiry into the show's production but eventually decided not to pursue the investigation any further, citing an absence of "any formal complaints to this office or request for investigation by any state agency."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio and Steve Rogers on Wednesday, June 11, 2008 - 01:06 PM EST
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NBC has revealed the identities of the 24 teams competing on Celebrity Family Feud -- the majority of which have past or current connections to the reality genre.
Included among Celebrity Family Feud's 24-team field will be 15 teams featuring the Kardashian family; Deion and Pilar Sanders; Vivica A. Fox; Mo'Nique; Christopher Knight and Adrianne Curry; Ice T; Melissa Rivers; Wayne Newton; Vincent Pastore; Corbin Bernsen; Margaret Cho; and cast members from American Gladiators, Dog the Bounty Hunter, The Girls Next Door and American Chopper.
Fox previously participated in Dancing with the Stars third season and is currently slated to star in VH1's new Glam God with Vivica A. Fox reality competition series, in which contestants compete for a career as a celebrity stylist. The show is scheduled to debut in August. Fox will compete on Celebrity Family Feud with her sister Alecia, brothers Marvin and William, and niece Sharday. They'll be playing for the American Red Cross.
Fox's family will be pitted against that of Mo'Nique -- who hosted Oxygen's Mo'Nique's Fat Chance plus-sized beauty pageant and VH1's Flavor of Love Girls Charm School reality series. Mo'Nique will compete with her husband Sidney, her cousins Eric and Terrance, and family friend Rodney. They'll be playing for Crystal Stairs, Inc.
The guys from TLC's American Chopper -- Paul Teutul Sr. and his sons Paul Jr.and Mikey -- will compete with their family friends Steve and Ron and will be playing for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
They'll be pitted against Knight and Curry -- who have starred on VH1's My Fair Brady after meeting on The Surreal Life's third season. Curry was America's Next Top Model's first-season winner, while Knight will also compete on NBC's Celebrity Circus this summer.
Knight and Curry will compete with Curry's brother Nick and mom Christine, and family friend Andrea while playing for the National Breast Cancer Association and Precious Paws.
Bernsen -- who appeared on both Celebrity Mole: Hawaii and Celebrity Mole: Yucatan -- will compete on Celebrity Family Feud with his wife Amanda and their three sons Oliver, Henry and Angus. They'll be playing for The Rape Treatment Center at the Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center.
Bernsen's family will be pitted against that of Cho, whose new VH1 The Cho Show reality series is scheduled to premiere this August on VH1 and will follow the comedian's attempts to reestablish her career. Cho will play with her dad Seung Hoon, her mom Young Hie, and her assistants John and Selene. They'll be competing for the MAC AIDS Fund.
Ice T -- who helmed VH1's Fall 2006 reality series Ice T's Rap School -- will compete alongside his wife Coco, their son Ice, Coco's mom Tine, and family friend Sean. They'll be playing for Unity 2 and will be pitted against the Rivers. Melissa -- a former I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! participant -- and her mom Joan will compete with Melissa's cousins Andrew and Caroline, and Joan's assistant Sabrina. They'll be playing for Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Keeping up with the Kardashians co-stars Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian and Kris and Bruce Jenner will compete for the Dream Foundation and will be pitted against Deion and Pilar: Prime Time Love family members Deion, Pilar, Deion Jr. and Deiondra Sanders, as well as Deion's aunt Annette. They'll play for Sanders Claus.
Pastore -- a former Celebrity Fit Club and Celebrity Apprentice participant and Dancing with the Stars drop-out -- will compete with his ex-wife Nancy, their daughter Renee, Renee's fiance Christopher, and family friend Kathrine. They'll be playing for the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research- Mitchell Berk Memorial.
Pastore's kin will compete against The Girls Next Door co-stars Bridget Marquardt, Holly Madison and Kendra Wilkinson, as well as Playboy bunnies Sara Underwood and Jayde Nicole. They'll be playing for the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation and Operation Gratitude.
Newton -- a former Dancing with the Stars fifth-season participant -- will compete with his wife Kathleen, their daughter Erin and Kathleen's mom Marilyn and sister Tricia. They'll be playing for The USO.
Dog the Bounty Hunter co-stars Duane "Dog" Chapman, his wife Beth and their children Duane Jr., Leland and Lyssa will also participate and play for the Mousseheart Child City School.
Former Dancing with the Stars fourth-season participant and American Gladiator's co-host Laila Ali will be joined by the show's professional gladiators Mike "Titan" O'Hearn, Don "Wolf" Yates, Beth "Venom" Horn, and Monica "Jet" Carlson. They'll be playing for the Woman's Sports Foundation and USA Cares.
Even Celebrity Family Feud's host -- Today anchor Al Roker -- has a reality tie-in, as he curently serves as executive producer for Spike TV's DEA series.
In addition to the 15 aforementioned teams, Celebrity Family Feud will also feature six teams fronted by celebrities with no prior reality ties -- Larry The Cable Guy; comedian Bill Engvall; actress Raven-Symone; Today correspondent Tiki Barber; former The Tonight Show personality Ed McMahon; and TV personality Kathie Lee Gifford. Three teams featuring cast members from NBC's The Office and My Name is Earl sitcoms will round out the 24-team field (Earl will field two teams, "The Hickeys" and "The Camden County All-Stars").
During each episode four celebrity families will be pitted against each other in a tournament-style format, with the winners from each round moving onto the final round -- where they'll compete to win up to $50,000 for their designated charity.
Celebrity Family Feud will premiere Tuesday, July 1 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, June 11, 2008 - 12:38 PM EST
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MTV has announced it's ordered four new reality series and has also begun development on three others.
"The MTV programming team is laser focused on seeking out, developing, and launching breakthrough content in a variety of genres and formats. This allows us to continue evolving, and offering our audience an exciting roster of hits all year round," said MTV programming executive Tony DiSanto. "We are committed to keeping the pipeline of ideas flowing, expanding into new creative territories and feeding every day part with programming concepts that reinvent, and the incredible MTV series development machine is firing on all cylinders."
New reality series ordered by MTV are Untitled 50 Cent Project, Buzzin', Busted and Making the Rock Band.
The new The Apprentice-like reality competition series starring 50 Cent will follow the rapper and business mogul as he narrows down a group of 16 contestants via a series of challenges, with the winner receiving a full scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate business program, depending on his or her academic status and accomplishments.
The currently untitled 50 Cent project is executive produced by 50 Cent; Michael Hirschorn, Stella Stolper, and Chris Choun for Ish Entertainment; and Chris Lighty for Violator Management.
Buzzin' is a new reality series that will follow musical artist Shwayze -- who describes himself as "the only black kid in Malibu" -- as he continues to try and crack the music industry. He'll be accompanied by Cisco Adler -- his best friend, producer and musical partner; and Warren, their friend/tour manager.
Jordan Schur, the tour manager and Suretone Records label rep, will attempt to keep them on track. Buzzin' is produced by Suretone Entertainment and Hoosick Falls Productions -- with Schur, George Verschoor and Mike Powers serving as executive producers.
Each half-hour episode of Busted will show viewers what happens to youth when they break the law while also offering the perspectives of both the juveniles who commit the crimes and the law enforcement officials who deal with them. Liz Gateley and George McTeague are the MTV executives overseeing production.
Making the Rock Band -- a spin-off of MTV's still-ongoing Making the Band reality franchise -- will follow Diddy as he leaves his rap/R&B comfort zone to instead form a rock band. Gateley and Jackie French are the MTV executives overseeing production.
MTV also has three reality series currently in development -- Teen Dream, Hollarado and 16 and Pregnant.
Teen Dream is executive produced by Ken Mok's 10x10 Entertainment -- the same production company that produces The CW's America's Next Top Model with Tyra Banks -- and it is a new Crowned: The Mother of All Pageants-like reality competition series that will look to find the country's next great female singer with mom serving as manager and mentor.
Mother/daughter teams cast for the show will compete against each other for a cash prize and the opportunity to showcase the daughter's talent. In addition to Mok, Teen Dream is executive produced by Don Weiner.
Hollarado is a new Viva La Bam-like reality series that will center on skateboarder William Spencer and his buddies as they attempt crazy stunts. Austin & Julie Reading of Liquid Theory are executive producers, along with Mike Powers.
16 and Pregnant is an Engaged and Underage-type reality series that will instead focus on young girls expecting children. It will touch upon how choices concerning the pregnancy effects their relationships, dating life and friendships. Maira Suro and Lauren Dolgen are the MTV executives overseeing development.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, May 30, 2008 - 08:44 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 - 11:35 AM EST
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Temperatures aren't the only thing rising this summer, as the new season also means the dawn of several new reality series and the return of some old favorites that have been on vacation.
Not all of this summer's reality shows have formal premiere dates yet, but the following is Reality TV World's 2008 Reality TV Summer Preview, highlighting all of the currently known shows that will be premiering in coming months as well as where and when to tune in.
In addition, some shows that debuted recently -- including Hell Kitchen's fourth season; Farmer Wants a Wife; The Real World: Hollywood; Step It Up & Dance; Can You Duet; Top Chef: Chicago; Duel's second season A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila's second season; and Deadliest Catch's fourth season -- will continue to air new episodes into or during the Summer 2008 programming season.
American Gladiators, Season 2 (premieres Monday, May 12 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
The revival of this campy competition series will be back for a second season as part of NBC's "All American Summer" programming schedule that will include the network's coverage of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing. American Gladiators and the Olympics aren't as different as you might think, with both featuring grueling tests of endurance, flashy spandex outfits and drug testing.
The Bachelorette, Season 4 (premieres Monday, May 19 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
DeAnna Pappas got rejected by The Bachelor eleventh-season star Brad Womack... TWICE! Now ABC is giving the Southern belle her own opportunity to find love -- and break some hearts along the way -- with the return of this The Bachelor spin-off, the last installment of which aired more than three years ago and starred Jen Scheftt. Ironically, Scheftt rejected both of her final suitors and supported Womack's decision to do the same.
So You Think You Can Dance, Season 4 (premieres Thursday, May 22 at 8PM ET/PT on Fox)
Mary Murphy screaming, Nigel Lythgoe getting face time and Cat Deeley doing her best Ryan Seacrest impression aren't the only things the fourth season of this reality series has to offer, as viewers will once again have the opportunity to crown the best dancer America has to offer. Adam Carolla need not apply.
Last Comic Standing, Season 6 (premieres Thursday, May 22 at 9:30PM ET/PT on NBC)
NBC is pulling out the big guns to find comedians for the sixth season of this reality series, with more than a dozen current and former network sitcom stars serving as talent scouts. However it's home viewers who will once again get the chance to crown the king of funny -- or at least we're assuming it'll be a king since the show has yet to have a female winner.
Million Dollar Password (premieres Sunday, June 1 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
Regis Philbin loves hosting game shows that award $1 million prizes, as the former Who Wants to Be a Millionaire host will helm this new game show that NBC is billing as a combination between classics Password and Pyramid.
Bridezillas, Season 5 (premieres Sunday, June 1 at 9PM ET/PT on WEtv)
The fifth season of this reality series debuts just in time for all those summer weddings on your itinerary, and this time the tyrannical brides-to-be apparently have some competition from family members, including a "Momzilla" in the premiere episode. Hopefully the happy couple made sure mom contributed her portion of the bill before she flipped out.
The Next Food Network Star, Season 4 (premieres Sunday, June 1 at 10PM ET/PT on Food Network)
Food Network turned up the heat in the kitchen for the fourth season of this reality series, as Iron Chef America star Bobby Flay will become a regular member of the judging panel. However the "steaks" are still the same, with the culinary contestants having to prove they have what it takes to star in his or her own series on the network.
The Mole, Season 5 (premieres Monday, June 2 at 10PM ET/PT on ABC)
The Mole is back, we just don't know who it is yet. But viewers will no doubt be on the trail in this show's first non-celebrity edition in six years, in which a group of 12 contestants will compete in new missions at new locations while trying to determine who among them is attempting to sabotage their chances at winning the grand prize.
Legally Blonde The Musical: The Search for Elle Woods (premieres Monday, June 2 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
While blondes may have more fun, they also apparently work hard, which this new Grease: You're the One that I Want-like reality series will prove by searching for Laura Bell Bundy's replacement as Broadway's Elle Woods. However unlike NBC's Grease,the show's director and choreographer will ultimately pick the competition's winner to assure viewers don't kill the musical at the box office before it even opens.
30 Days, Season 3 (premieres Tuesday, June 3 at 10PM ET/PT on FX)
A lot can happen in 30 days -- just ask Morgan Spurlock, who will return as the host for the third season of this reality series, the last installment of which aired more than two years ago. This season's "30 days" experiences will include everything from working in a coal mine and living in a wheelchair to being a same-sex parent and living on an Indian reservation.
She's Got the Look (premieres Wednesday, June 4 at 10PM ET/PT on TV Land)
Modeling-themed reality competition shows can't be accused of being ageist anymore, as this new series will follow 10 woman 35 or older as they strut their stuff on the runway (with a walker) while keeping their (failing) sights set on becoming the next great supermodel (on Social Security).
Meerkat Manor: The Next Generation (premieres Friday, June 6 at 9PM ET/PT on Animal Planet)
Talk about anthropomorphic. The fourth season of this reality series could double as a chapter in human civilization, as the Kalahari Desert is up for grabs among the meerkats following the death of matriarch Flower. With rival meerkat gangs, romances and the struggle to survive, it doesn't get much more real than that (unless you're on The Hills).
Your Place or Mine? (premieres Sunday, June 8 at 8PM ET/PT on TLC)
It's a question asked across the country on countless weekend nights -- however this new game show doesn't deal with sexual surroundings and will instead pit two families against each other for a chance to win newly furnished rooms for their homes or the ability to steal rooms from their competitors. Plus its hosted by Cameron Matheson, another former Dancing with the Stars celebrity participant to cash in on his exposure from the show.
HGTV Design Star, Season 3 (premieres Sunday, June 8 at 9PM ET/PT on HGTV)
Designing with a country twang never looked so good, as the 10 designers competing in the third season of this reality series will call Nashville home and attempt to show-off their creativity, ingenuity and skills in the hopes of landing the grand prize of his or her own HGTV television show.
Ice Road Truckers, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, June 8 at 9PM ET/PT on History Channel)
The slippery roads may have changed, but the journey will be just as treacherous in the second season of this reality series. While the first season followed truckers hauling diamond mining equipment across frozen lakes just miles from the Arctic Circle, the diamond mines that own those winter roads outside of Yellowknife, Canada reportedly would not allow the second season to do the same. So instead, the truckers will be moving oil exploration machinery on an ice road in the Northwest Territories' Inuvik Region.
Master of Dance (premieres Monday, June 9 at 8PM ET/PT on TLC)
Hosted by Joey Lawrence (see Cameron Matheson, Your Place or Mine?), this new reality series will pit five dancers against each other in an elimination-style tournament to see who can adapt their moves on the fly -- as the musical accompaniment quickly changes. While it adds to the glut of reality-themed dance shows, at least it's not on ABC.
Nashville Star, Season 6 (premieres Monday, June 9 at 9:30PM ET/PT on NBC)
Not only does the sixth season of this reality competition series have a new home on NBC -- it will also feature several new faces and format changes, including host Billy Ray Cyrus; judges and musical mentors Jewel, John Rich and Jeffrey Steele; duets and trios have the chance to perform; and a lower minimum age requirement of 16-years-old. Yee-haw!
Celebrity Circus (premieres Wednesday, June 11 at 9PM ET/PT on NBC)
Reality television has given celebrities the opportunity to sing, dance, ice skate, live together, ride bulls and even attend rehab -- so why should the chance to undertake circus stunts seem so farfetched? Plus it's cast reads like a who's who of celebrity reality show participants, some of which will undoubtedly create must-see-TV when they're shot out of a human catapult or juggle knives.
Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, Season 4 (premieres Thursday, June 12 at 9PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Kathy Griffin won't let her Emmy Award go to her head, as the fourth season of this reality series will continue to follow the comedian as she lives life on the D-List. In addition to offending everyone, Griffin will also officiate a wedding and woo Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, whom she recently split from after a brief romantic relationship that presumably only fueled her petulance for poking fun at others.
Gene Simmons Family Jewels, Season 4 (premieres Sunday, June 15 at 9PM ET/PT on A&E)
As this reality series enters its fourth season, the demonically face-painted KISS frontman has basically become family to viewers -- who only grew closer to him when he competed on NBC's The Celebrity Apprentice earlier this year. Since he was away from former Playboy bunny Shannon Tweed -- who he's been happily UNmarried to for more than two decade -- Simmons whisks her away for the honeymoon they never had.
Intervention, Season 5 (premieres Monday, June 16 at 9PM ET/PT on A&E)
Can't stop chasing the pink dragon, popping pills, downing booze or smoking dope? Never fear, the fifth season of this reality series is here! While the end result could potentially save each subject's life, viewers will get to see what it's like to hit rock bottom without actually having to.
Psychic Kids: Children of the Paranormal (premieres Monday, June 16 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
This new Paranormal State spin-off will prove just how creepy kids with psychic abilities can really be, as it will follow youth who need to have their otherworldly powers explained to them. Since their parents aren't any help, psychologist and Columbia University professor Dr. Lisa Miller comes to the rescue and helps the kids cope with seeing dead pets and reading their classmate's minds.
Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, Season 3 (premieres Tuesday, June 17 at 10PM ET/PT on Oxygen)
The bed-and-breakfast business was fun while it lasted, but it's back to Tinseltown for Tori Spelling, Dean McDermott and little Liam in the third season of this reality series -- which will follow the couple as they buy a new home in Hollywood; pursue new business ventures; search for a preschool for Liam; and prepare for the birth of their second child.
Flipping Out, Season 2 (premieres Tuesday, June 17 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
If viewers had a hard time watching obsessive-compulsive house-flipper Jeff Lewis as he visited spiritual healers, fretted about his beloved cat and berated his ex-boyfriend/current business partner -- imagine how it must have been for Lewis to see it unfold. But he's turning over a new leaf for the second season of this reality series, in which Lewis and his staff as they purchase homes and quickly renovate them before flipping them for a profit.
Black Gold (premieres Wednesday, June 18 at 10PM ET/PT on truTV)
From the creator of Deadliest Catch and Ice Road Truckers, this new reality series will follow the high stakes world of drilling for American crude. Of course it's a dangerous job, as the workers in search of the Texas Tea must construct rigs and avoid iron pipes flying in every direction in order to strike oil -- and millions of dollars -- without losing their lives.
Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew, Season 2 (premieres Thursday, June 19 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
Yo dawg, the second season of this reality series is back with new dance crews from across the country competing for the chance to show-off their moves somewhere other than the street in an effort to claim the $100,000 grand prize. The first season was just alright for me... just okay... little pitchy.
Wipeout (premieres Tuesday, June 24 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
If the almost 20-year run of America's Funniest Home Videos has taught us anything, it's that viewers love to watch the physical misfortunes of others -- as long as they're not seriously hurt. This new reality series will capitalize on that, as it will follow contestants as they make their way through obstacle courses designed to produce what the network described as "the most crashes, face plants, impacts and wipeouts ever seen on television."
The Two Coreys, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, June 22 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
If you didn't get enough of Corey Haim or Corey Feldman in the 1980s -- and we know you didn't! -- this reality series is back for a second season, which will follow the two as they reconcile their friendship and attempt to get Lost Boys 2 of the ground. One thing about living in Santa Carla I never could stomach... all the damn vampires -- and Coreys.
I Survived a Japanese Game Show (premieres Tuesday, June 24 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
American reality show concepts have apparently become so mundane that contestants need to be shipped halfway around the world so viewers can see something fresh. Enter this new reality series, which will follow 10 Americans who are whisked away to Japan to compete in the "ultimate Japanese game show." Banzai!
America's Got Talent, Season 3 (premieres Tuesday, June 24 at 9PM ET/PT on NBC)
This glorified talent show is back for a third season. However potential contestants aren't the only ones who have been honing their skills, as judge Piers Morgan recently sharpened his tongue by winning The Celebrity Apprentice and single handedly banishing Omarosa from TV... hopefully for good.
The Baby Borrowers (premieres Wednesday, June 25 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC)
Playing house has never been so real for the five young couples participating in the American adaptation of this British import, which will follow the young lovebirds as they are put on the fast-track to adulthood. With their baby growing from an infant to elder over the course of three weeks, the couples will either learn that they're ready for parenthood or in need of more birth control.
Shear Genius, Season 2 (premieres Wednesday, June 25 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
If you thought it was tough styling your bed head every morning, imagine how the contestants in the second season of this Project Runway-like reality series must feel. Creating fashionable coifs can be a hair-raising challenge, especially when you consider the clients that some of the stylists have to deal with on a regular basis.
Hopkins (premieres Thursday, June 26 at 10PM ET/PT on ABC)
Similar to ABC's Summer 2000 Hopkins 24/7 reality series, this update will follow life at Baltimore's Johns Hopkins Hospital -- from sexy female surgeons that will remind you of Grey's Anatomy to grumpy-but-briliant doctors like House.
Dance Machine (premieres Friday, June 27 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
In ABC's quest to set the world record for most dance-themed reality shows on one network, this new series will feature six different people from various walks of life who face each other in a series of one-on-one dance offs for the chance to win a $100,000 prize. While Friday nights have traditionally proven to be a graveyard for reality shows (see: Fox's Nashville),this show will also try to buck that trend. Good luck.
Greatest American Dog (premieres Thursday, July 10 at 8PM ET/PT on CBS)
America's Next Top Model goes to the dogs in this new reality series, which will follow a group of pageant pooches and their respective owners as they compete against each other in a series of canine-themed challenges. With a $250,000 grand prize on the line, that's enough to make any dog's tail wag.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, May 08, 2008 - 06:53 AM EST
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TV Land has announced it's ordered a new untitled reality dating series from The Bachelor creator Mike Fleiss that will follow a group of young men vying for the heart of an older, more mature woman.
The young men cast for Untitled Cougar Project (the show's current working title) will compete for the "cougar" via a series of creative and romantic challenges, with suitors being booted weekly by the show's bachelorette.
Cougar is produced by Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television, with Fleiss serving as executive producer. Casting for the series is currently underway and it is slated for an early 2009 debut.
In addition to creating ABC's The Bachelor and The Bachelorette reality dating series, Fleiss also created High School Reunion, which aired three seasons on the now-defunct The WB in 2003 and 2004.
TV Land announced plans to revive High School Reunion in late 2006, and after several delays, the show's first TV Land edition finally premiered in March. TV Land recently renewed the show for a second season.
"We are thrilled to unleash this wild project onto TV Land's schedule and join other successful and fun-filled shows like High School Reunion from Mike Fleiss," said TV Land programming executive Keith Cox. "The TV Land audience is looking for entertainment with interesting and compelling storylines --something Fleiss has proven he can deliver to our audience."
While TV Land is hoping Cougar can deliver "interesting and compelling storylines," the show's format isn't exactly original.
In September 2004, Fox ordered Ivana Young Man, a reality dating special that would follow Donald Trump's ex-wife Ivana Trump as she selected eight eligible 20-something bachelors who would then vie for her affection.
However the show never aired on Fox and was instead broadcast on Oxygen in Spring 2005.
Last summer, NBC aired Age of Love, which followed 31-year-old Australian tennis player Mark Philippoussis in his attempts to find love among a group of suitors ranging in age from 21- to 48-years-old -- aka the "kittens" and the "cougars."
Philippoussis chose 25-year-old Amanda Salinas during the show's finale, however the two reportedly stopped dating a few months later.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, May 02, 2008 - 05:19 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Friday, April 25, 2008 - 12:41 PM EST
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TLC announced it is developing a new reality series starring singer and actress Jennifer Lopez.
"I am excited to be part of the TLC family," said Lopez. "I'm looking forward to sharing this exciting journey together."
The untitled series is currently in production and will follow Lopez' various professional endeavors, including the launch of her new fragrance. In addition, the series will also focus on the new mother of twins and her husband Marc Anthony as they tackle the responsibilities of parenthood.
"Jennifer is unbelievably passionate about life and will be an incredible role model for our audience," TLC president Angela Shapiro-Mathes. "I'm thrilled to be partnering with her on a series that will take our audience into a fascinating world. It's a fun, emotional journey that will be inspirational and yet very relatable to today's women."
The series is co-created and co-executive produced by Lopez, with Simon Fields and Gay Rosenthal also serving as executive producers.
Although it will the first one to focus on her, the new TLC series doesn't represent Lopez' first foray into reality television.
MTV ordered Moves -- a reality series that would follow the lives of six dancers working to make it in the dancing business -- in May 2006, and it was executive produced by Lopez.
The show subsequently premiered in January 2007 under the new title DanceLife, and Lopez made several cameo appearances during its eight-episode run.
In addition, Lopez served as a musical mentor during American Idol's Spring 2007 sixth season.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, April 24, 2008 - 12:33 AM EST
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The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced its Board of Governors has approved a new Emmy Award category for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program.
The category, which the board had first discussed adding in February, will be open to "the proactive master of ceremony" host for a reality or reality competition series.
"Reactive participants or judges" are not eligible to receive the award.
"Reality television has become such an integral part of television and our culture, so it only made sense for us to create this new highly competitive category," said Academy of Television Arts & Sciences chairman and CEO John Shaffner.
The first award for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program will be presented at the 60th annual Primetime Emmy Awards, which will be broadcast live from Los Angeles' Nokia Theater, L.A. Live on Sunday, September 21 at 8PM ET on ABC.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, April 23, 2008 - 12:41 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, April 22, 2008 - 09:21 AM EST
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After seeing CBS's Secret Talents of the Stars fail to generate any buzz and flop, ABC apparently felt viewers would also have no interest in seeing cedlebrities attempt circus-style performances.
ABC has canceled its plans to revive Circus of the Stars as a weekly reality series, Daily Variety reported Wednesday.
The network had landed Circus of the Stars in January -- when the Writers Guild of America strike was still going on-- after a "fierce bidding war with at least one other network," according to Variety.
Around the same time, NBC ordered at least six episodes of Celebrity Circus, a new Dancing with the Stars-like reality series that will follow celebrities as they compete alongside professional circus troupes.
While Variety reported ABC was pleased with the way Circus of the Stars was progressing creatively, the presence of NBC's almost identical format and the "glut of celebreality in the TV marketplace right now" made casting for the series difficult.
With the possibility of using a D-list cast, ABC scrapped Circus of the Stars -- which was set to be produced by Michael Dempsey and original Circus of the Stars executive producer Bunny Stivers -- earlier this month, Variety reported.
Meanwhile casting is currently underway for NBC's Celebrity Circus and it's still scheduled to premiere Wednesday, June 11 at 9PM ET/PT, according to Variety.
Secret Talents of the Stars, an America's Got Talent-esque reality competition series for celebrities, premiered earlier this month on CBS -- but averaged only 4.58 million total viewers and a 1.5/4 rating/share in the Adults 18-49 demographic.
CBS canceled the series only two days after its debut.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 - 02:28 AM EST
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Bravo announced it has ordered two new reality series and also renewed several others as part of an aggressive programming slate that will see the network launch a fourth night of original programming on Monday nights.
"Bravo has seen a huge ratings surge over the past year, and the momentum we build with every returning original series is phenomenal," said Bravo Media executive Frances Berwick. "Last year we successfully entered the Thursday night arena with a new lineup of originals. And building on that success, we're now officially turning the lights on on Monday nights this summer."
As part of the announcement, the network has formally announced it has renewed Flipping Out, The Millionaire Matchmaker, The Real Housewives of New York City and Tim Gunn's Guide to Style for second seasons; The Real Housewives of Orange County for a fourth season; and Top Chef for a fifth season.
Fashion guru Tim Gunn had previously revealed Guide to Style's renewal, while The Millionaire Matchmaker star Patti Stanger had also hinted about her show's second-season pickup in recent interviews.
Although included in today's announcement, the network already previously announced that it had renewed Million Dollar Listing, Shear Genius and Top Design for second seasons, as well as Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List for a fourth season.
In addition, Bravo announced it is building upon its The Real Housewives franchise by ordering another spin-off -- The Real Housewives of New Jersey, which will follow five of the Garden State's most affluent women and their families.
The Real Housewives of New Jersey will join The Rachel Zoe Project and Date My Ex, a previously announced pilot that has now been given a full-episode order.
The Rachel Zoe Project, first announced in January, will follow celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe and her team of fashion experts as they attempt to take their business to the next level. Date My Ex will follow former The Real Housewives of Orange County "housewife" Jo De La Rosa and ex-fiance Slade Smiley as De La Rosa looks for love in Los Angeles, where she recently relocated to pursue a singing career.
Bravo also announced it is currently developing two additional new reality series -- Donatella and Miami Social.
Donatella will follow Manhattan restaurateur Donatella Arpaia as she deals with the constant challenges of staying on top of New York City's culinary kingdom; while Miami Social is an Entourage-esque reality show that will follow a group of five South Beach friends looking to make their professional marks on Miami while also enjoying the city's nightlife.
Donatella and Miami Social join Tabatha's Salon Takeover -- another previously announced in-development series that which will follow first-season Shear Genius contestant Tabatha Coffey's attempts to improve hair salons across America -- on Bravo's development slate.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio and Steve Rogers on Tuesday, April 15, 2008 - 07:09 AM EST
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TLC announced it will launch a re-branding effort focused on the network's "real-life" content, which will include both new and returning programs packaged into nights themed around subject matter geared towards viewers and advertisers.
"We're creating strong multiplatform franchises with our new series, brand and themed nights that will make TLC the place the audience and the advertisers feel good about coming back to," said TLC president Angela Shapiro-Mathes.
TLC's re-branding effort will rollout over the summer and early fall -- with new and returning programming categorized into distinct themed nights, including family, makeover, home decorating and design, relationships, careers, unusual lives, entertainment and events.
The effort is scheduled to launch May 31 with the premiere of Your Place or Mine? -- TLC's first ever game show. Hosted by former Dancing with the Stars fifth-season participant Cameron Matheson, the game show will pit two teams against each other for the chance to win their own full-room makeovers or steal the opposing team's new room.
Your Place or Mine? is currently slated to air Saturdays -- TLC's home decorating and design themed night, which would also include returning series Trading Spaces, Flip That House and Date My House.
TLC will continue to air "real family sitcoms" on Monday nights, including the return of Little People, Big World and John & Kate Plus 8.
In addition, Friday night programming will continue to focus on "makeovers" with the return of What Not to Wear; 10 Years Younger; and Say Yes to the Dress. Real Simple, a new reality series that will provide women with a lifestyle makeover, is also scheduled to air Friday nights.
Single Moms, a new The Bachelor-like reality dating series that will follow three women on a cross-country journey to find true love, is currently slated to air on the relationships-themed night.
Each Single Moms episode will follow the same three single mothers as they search for someone to share their lives with. The women starring in Single Moms will personally select the bachelors they'd like to meet via the show and then whittle down the suitors over the course of 10 weeks until each has found the family man of their dreams.
The Singing Office, a new reality competition series hosted by former Dancing with the Stars alumni Melanie Brown and Joey Fatone, is scheduled to air on TLC's careers-themed night.
In each episode, Brown and Fatone will surprise employees at two separate offices and ask for their best vocal performances of popular songs. Brown and Fatone will then select the five best singers, who will be trained by professionals before competing against one another in front of a studio audience.
The unusual lives-themed night will include returning series LA Ink, American Chopper and Miami Ink. New episodes of Miami Ink are scheduled to debut Thursday, April 24.
Additional new series that fall into the unusual lives theme include Ashley Paige, which will follow the famous bikini designer as she tries to launch her new company while keeping her family afloat; and Napoleon Complex, a reality competition series that will pit 12 makeup artists at Napoleon Perdis' makeup academy against one another for the chance to work alongside the show's star for a year.
In addition, TLC also announced the development of several new series that have yet to be categorized to a particular themed night.
Rock the Reception will follow couples choreographing their first dance; Who Are You Wearing will pit aspiring designers against one another as they compete for the opportunity to design for and dress a celebrity for a red-carpet event; This Is Why You're Single will follow friends and family members holding an intervention for a "perpetually single" loved one; Made Of Honor will feature bridesmaids fighting for the chance to be the bride's right-hand woman; I've Got Nothing to Wear will aim to help women find flattering clothing in their existing closet; Should I Stay or Should I Go will answer questions about real estate and renovation; and Take Home My Nanny will follow nannies helping families plan for a big event where the children are the stars.
Absent from TLC's announcement was The Real Estate Pros, the first season of which premiered last year.
When contacted on Thursday by Reality TV World, a TLC spokesperson confirmed The Real Estate Pros is currently not on the network's broadcast schedule but added it could return at a later time.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, April 10, 2008 - 09:17 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, April 07, 2008 - 05:43 PM EST
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Viewers got a glimpse of Jason Wahler's wild side via Laguna Beach and The Hills, and now he apparently wants to provide proof that he's committed to settling down.
Wahler is currently shopping 22 and Taken, a new reality series starring himself, his fiancee Katja Decker-Sadowski and "their close circle of friends as they prepare for their eventual wedding," his representative Siri Garber told E! News in a Wednesday report.
"He came up with this when the [Writers Guild of America strike] was going on," Garber told E! News. "So really there was only a market for reality when it came up."
Despite a recent posting by celebrity blogger Perez Hilton, Wahler claimed the show is "not going to VH1" when he appeared as a guest on American Idol host Ryan Seacrest's Thursday morning KIIS-FM radio show.
"We'd like to go with MTV because of the fan-base we have there," said Wahler. "But it's still being shopped. There's a lot of people interested. We're just getting at the very end of what we need to do. We'll be in post-production in the next month I'm hoping."
Wahler explained the tentatively-titled show will basically be "following me in my endeavors over the next year." While it will touch upon his relationship with Decker-Sadowski, Wahler said that aspect of the show will be kept "to a minimum."
"Being experienced with having a whole relationship and stuff on camera has not been good, and I don't really like how they get so intrusive," said Wahler. "Definitely I want them to follow to a point -- like having our real engagement party and planning our wedding. But day-to-day stuff, I don't really see that happening."
Wahler and Decker-Sadowski got engaged last August, and not all of his friends were happy, including his ex Lauren "L.C." Conrad.
"A lot of people are like, 'Oh, you're too young. You don't know this and stuff,'" said Wahler. "In the past three years I've experienced what most people experience in 10 years. She's been such a stability for me. She's always the one that keeps me on track -- she's always there just to encourage me and give me the best motivation. So that always helps."
Wahler's recent legal troubles and struggle with alcohol addiction have been well-documented.
In September 2006, he reportedly punched a tow-truck driver as well as a Los Angeles city employee and was accused of using racial slurs against two of the victims, who are African-American. He plead no contest to one count of battery and received a two-month jail sentence and was also required to attend a one-day program at the Museum of Tolerance.
Wahler was due to begin serving his sentence in early May -- but that was delayed by a judge due to a stint in rehab at Orange County's Chapman House inpatient facility, which he completed last summer.
He was also arrested last April in Seattle and booked on charges of assault and criminal trespassing. According to the incident report, officers responded to a disturbance at a Marriott hotel where a security guard claimed two guests had been wrestling in the lobby. After issuing warnings to stop, the guard reportedly accused Wahler of punching him in the mouth before he was restrained by a friend.
Wahler then allegedly fled the hotel, only to return "a short time later" when police found him passed out in a third-floor hallway "smelling strongly of alcohol." He received a 30-day prison sentence when he plead guilty to charges of assault and a minor exhibiting signs of intoxication. Wahler had also originally been charged with criminal trespassing, however that charge was dropped.
He subsequently received an early release from a Seattle jail last November after serving 20 days of a 30-day sentence.
"I've been sober now and it's been a very big struggle," Wahler told Seacrest. "It has been really tough, especially in L.A.. It's a daily struggle for me. It's been very hard."
Wahler added he doesn't really go out at all anymore.
"I think I've been out once in the past six months and that was probably for a half-hour just to go to a friend's birthday," he said. "Other than that, the latest I go out is about 9PM and that's for dinner."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, April 03, 2008 - 03:47 AM EST
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Giada De Laurentiis will be trading in her signature Italian dishes for bottles and baby food.
The Food Network chef and regular The Today Show contributor and her husband Todd Thompson welcomed their first child together on Saturday in Los Angeles, People reported.
"De Laurentiis and husband Todd Thompson welcomed their first child, a healthy baby girl," her representative told People. "Jade Marie De Laurentiis Thompson weighed in at 5lbs, 13oz."
The 37-year-old celebrity chef revealed she was pregnant during a The Today Show broadcast last November.
"When I found out I was pregnant, I was in complete shock, just shock," said De Laurentiis at the time. "Todd and I looked at each other and we both said 'How is this possible?' Well we all know how it's possible -- I just really truly didn't believe it. I honestly thought, 'There has got to be a mistake.'"
The Italy native serves as the host of Food Network's Everyday Italian, Behind the Bash, Giada's Weekend Getaways and Giada in Paradise programs, and also competed in an episode of the network's Iron Chef America reality competition series.
In addition, she's penned "Everyday Italian: 125 Simple and Delicious Recipes;" "Giada's Family Dinners;" and "Everyday Pasta."
De Laurentiis and Thompson, a 44-year-old clothing designer, wed in 2003.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, March 31, 2008 - 03:12 AM EST
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Coal miners and sled-dog racers will apparently receive the same reality series treatment as king crab fisherman, arctic truckers and loggers.
Discovery Channel has ordered Coal and Iditarod, two new reality series from Deadliest Catch, Ice Road Truckers and Ax Men production company Original Productions, The Hollywood Reporter reported Wednesday.
"At Discovery, we look at ordinary men and women doing extraordinary things and show the heroic side," Discovery president John Ford told The Reporter. "This is the DNA that ties all three shows together, and it's an important aspect of what Discovery Channel does. We're going out there into the tough places of the world where the temperatures and conditions are extreme."
Coal will follow coal miners who work at a small company in Brady's Bend, PA as they compete against larger coal-mining companies to find new deposits to supply buyers, according to The Reporter. As if racing against companies with more resources weren't bad enough, the boys in Brady's Bend also regularly deal with gas explosions, roof collapses and dangerous machinery.
Discovery has ordered six one-hour episodes of the tentatively-titled series, with production beginning next week for a fall premiere, according to The Reporter.
Iditarod will follow eight teams competing in the annual 1,151-mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which occurs each March over the course of two weeks in the Alaskan wilderness, according to The Reporter.
Original Productions CEO Thom Beers told The Reporter that cameras documented eight of the 85 teams that competed in this year's recently concluded Iditarod race.
"We got the winner," Beers told The Reporter, a reference to two-time Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race champion Lance Mackey.
In addition, Beers said he's been interested in producing a show about the race for some time now.
"But we had to wait until technology caught up," he told The Reporter. "We couldn't use ordinary cameras. We had to use something that would be light enough so it wasn't weighing down the sleds."
Discovery has ordered six one-hour episodes of the tentatively-titled series, which is scheduled for a late summer premiere, according to The Reporter.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, March 21, 2008 - 08:17 AM EST
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Disney Channel has announced it has ordered Jonas Brothers: Living the Dream, a new reality series that will offer viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the Jonas Brothers band. It is scheduled to premiere later this spring.
"The Jonas Brothers are an unstoppable force that has exploded onto the music scene," said Disney Channel executive Gary Marsh. "We are thrilled they have allowed us this unprecedented access to document their journey to superstardom."
Jonas Brothers: Living the Dream will follow the band's members -- 20-year-old Kevin, 18-year-old Joe and 15-year-old Nick -- in their daily life with their parents and brother Frankie, touching upon everything from rehearsals and performing on stage to what they do during down time.
The Jonas Brothers recently completed a sold-out tour as special guests on the Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus Best of Both Worlds concert. With Disney's camera crew in tow, they returned to the road in January with their own sold-out concert tour.
The band's self-titled sophomore album dropped last August and made its debut at No. 5 on the Billboard Top 200 album sales chart and has since gone platinum.
In addition to the new reality series, the Jonas Brothers will star in Camp Rock -- a music-filled Disney Channel original movie scheduled to debut this summer. They are also scheduled to begin production on a live-action series for Disney Channel.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, March 21, 2008 - 06:43 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Saturday, March 15, 2008 - 07:40 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Friday, March 14, 2008 - 12:26 AM EST
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NBC has announced it's ordered Who Do You Think You Are?, a British reality series that will show celebrities the details of their ancestral lineage.
Each episode will trace the family tree of a different celebrity, taking viewers on a genealogical journey into the star's past via a narrative that will link their ancestry with what was historically occurring at that time.
"This engaging new series gives viewers a glimpse into the personal lives of our favorite celebrities allowing us to learn not only more about that individual, but also about our country's history on a grand scale," said NBC reality chief Craig Plestis. "I think at the heart of every American is the burning desire to understand who you are and where you came from. We hope this series will inspire our viewers to investigate their own intriguing past."
Who Do You Think You Are? is produced by the U.K.'s Wall to Wall productions. It first premiered in 2004 on BBC1 and will air its fifth season later this year.
"The show's combination of wonderful storytelling and powerful emotion has made it a break-out hit with British viewers and we're sure American audiences will love it too," said the show's creator Alex Graham.
Who Do You Think You Are? will be produced stateside by Graham's Wall to Wall production company in association with former Friends actress Lisa Kudrow and Dan Bucatinsky's Is or Isn't Entertainment. Graham will executive produce the series along Kudrow, Bucatinsky and Don Roos.
"We're thrilled that a star of the caliber of Lisa Kudrow has such faith in the show that she wanted to be a part of the creative team," said Graham. We're looking forward to a great relationship with Lisa's company and with NBC."
NBC has given Who Do You Think You Are? a series order based on finding a "suitable celebrity cast," The Hollywood Reporter reported Tuesday. Producers are currently researching the ancestry of several interested celebrity candidates whom the network declined to identify, according to The Reporter.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 - 08:14 AM EST
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Nick Lachey apparently wants to give some students at his alma mater a shot at fame.
MTV has ordered a pilot from the former Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica star for a new series billed as a reality version of the movie Fame, The Hollywood Reporter reported Tuesday.
The currently untitled project will focus on students attending Cincinnati's School for Creative and Performing Arts, blending their performances with narrative about the school Lachey attended as a youth, according to The Reporter.
MTV series development and programming executive Tony DiSanto told The Reporter the series will feature a "unique visual language that sets it apart" from other shows.
"The stories and relationships are all set to music that's organic in what's going on in the school and also performed by the kids," DiSanto told The Reporter. "This is a genre-busting, creative experiment that I'm really excited about."
Lachey approached MTV about the project and will serve as executive producer along with Marc Platt and Russell Heldt, according to The Reporter.
Should MTV give a full series order to Lachey's show, it wouldn't be the first reality version of Fame to hit the small screen.
NBC's Summer 2003 Fame reality competition series followed Debbie Allen in her attempts to find a multi-talented performer similar to the one she portrayed in the 1980 musical film of the same name.
Detroit native Harlemm Lee was crowned Fame's winner based on home viewer votes and received a management deal from music manager Johnny Wright; a $100,000 spokesperson contract from Wilhelmina Artist Management; and a principal role in the opening New York City-run of Fame, among other prizes.
A day after Fame's finale aired TV Guide reported Jeff Zucker, then president of NBC's entertainment division, told television critics that the show "did not work."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 - 07:02 AM EST
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Former The Restaurant star Rocco DiSpirito is gearing up for a return to the kitchen via Rocco to the Rescue, a new A&E reality series scheduled for a June debut.
"We've been trying to expand the breadth of a cooking show to include human interest and real-life stories," DiSpirito told the New York Daily News in a Wednesday report.
"Striking that perfect balance has been hard to pinpoint. It was also important for me to pick something that felt really good to me, that was about what I do, but was a little more interesting than just a cooking show. It wasn't my goal to do the classic dump and stir cooking show."
While DiSpirito declined to comment on any Rocco to the Rescue specifics, he told the Daily News the Piligian Films-produced project is a few years in the making and the first episode of the series will have someone cooking a special meal as a way of saying "thank you."
"We're going to help people get through milestone events in their lives," DiSpirito explained to the Daily News. "We're going to try to empower them, to convince them they can do things like cooking."
Rocco to the Rescue represents the first reality series DiSpirito will front since The Restaurant, a Mark Burnett and Reveille-produced reality series that premiered in July 2003 on NBC. The Restaurant followed DiSpirito as he prepared to open Manhattan's Rocco's 22nd Street restaurant with business partner Jeffrey Chodorow's China Grill Management LLC.
Despite first-season success, The Restaurant's Spring 2004 second season was short-lived due to poor ratings and infighting between Chodorow and DiSpirito. Chodorow closed Rocco's 22nd Street that September after a New York state court ruled that -- despite DiSpirito's ownership interest -- China Grill Management could shut down the eatery due to its financial problems.
"It was an enormous experience for me," DiSpirito told the Daily News. "There was lots of take-away for me. It was very exciting running three restaurants at once and writing a book. It was a good lesson in learning what your limits are, for sure. I think the result of that was a refocus of my energy."
That refocus led DiSpirito out of the spotlight for a few years until a recent return to television, including appearances on The Biggest Loser: Couples and Top Chef and a new Bertolli Foods commercial.
"Well, it certainly seems like I'm on TV a little more," DiSpirito told the Daily News. "There's been a few things happening."
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Monday, March 10, 2008 - 12:38 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Sunday, March 09, 2008 - 01:34 PM EST
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truTV has announced it has ordered several new unscripted series as part of a recently launched re-branding effort intended to reflect the network's decision to re-focus its primetime programming lineup on "emphasizing real-life stories."
truTV -- which was called Court TV prior to January 1 -- has ordered Black Gold, Man vs. Cartoon, Principal's Office, Rich & Reckless, Crisis Point and Ski Patrol; and is also currently developing Maui Chopper, Driving Me Mad, Sky Racers and One False Move.
According to the network, the new shows are all reflect of the "Not Reality. Actuality." tagline its truTV re-branding is centered around.
Black Gold, which is scheduled to premiere this summer, will follow several "wildcatters" -- Texas oil prospectors who race against each other in a potentially life-threatening attempt to strike oil and reap the monetary rewards. The series is being produced by Original Productions, the same production company behind Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch and The History Channel's Ice Road Truckers reality series.
Man vs. Cartoon is a Mythbusters-like series that will follow a team of scientists, engineers and inventors at New Mexico Tech as they aim to investigate whether gadgets used in cartoons could actually be constructed. Man vs. Cartoon was created by Worldwide Monkey, who will also executive produce the series with Warner Horizon Television and Craig Piligian.
Principal's Office will chronicle school administrators as they deal with students who violate the rules, and the conflicts that ensue as a result. The tentatively-titled series is being produced by Leftfield Productions.
Investigative journalist Mark Ebner will be at the center of Rich & Reckless, which will take viewers inside the lives of wealthy youth who flaunt their privileged lifestyles in the face of the law. The tentatively-titled series is being produced by Left/Right Productions.
Crisis Point will take viewers into life-threatening situations from the perspective of those who actually survived them, and will include recreations and actual footage designed to capture the survivors' experiences. The tentatively-titled series is being produced by Nash Entertainment.
Ski Patrol, a Beach Patrol-like show that will document dramatic rescues on dangerous ski slopes, will feature individual episodes that will be separately produced by The Real World producers Bunim/Murray Productions and Trick My Truck producers Varuna Entertainment.
In addition to the six shows that it has ordered, truTV is also developing Maui Chopper, which will chronicle rescue helicopter pilots working in Maui; Driving Me Mad, which will follow driving expert Pete Hosmer as he educates problematic and dangerous drivers; Sky Racers, which will document the work of Los Angeles-area news chopper pilot Desiree Horton; and One False Move, which will follow people whose jobs constantly put them on a collision course with danger.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, March 04, 2008 - 10:18 AM EST
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TNT is entering the realm of unscripted programming.
The network announced it has begun development on six new unscripted series as part of a primetime programming shift that will change most of TNT's schedule to original content by 2010.
The six unscripted projects -- Wedding Day, The Greatest Show on Earth, Lean on Me, Crimes of the Century, Behind the Drama, and Shadow of a Doubt -- represent almost half of the 14 new series TNT is currently either planning or developing.
"This dramatic expansion of our original programming slate is an important and exciting step in the evolution of our network," said TNT executive Michael Wright. "We're especially excited to add unscripted series to our lineup, which opens a whole new world of storytelling opportunities."
Each Wedding Day episode will follow a different bride who is deserving of having her dreams for the event come true, which will happen with the help of family and friends. The show will be co-produced by Mark Burnett's Mark Burnett Productions and DreamWorks Television -- the same team behind ESPN's The Contender and Fox's On the Lot -- with Burnett, Darryl Frank, Justin Falvey and Janelle Fiorito serving as executive producers.
The Greatest Show on Earth will take viewers inside the famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus' mile-long train, as it whisks the circus to cities and towns across the country. In addition, the stories of those who perform in the legendary circus will be told. The Greatest Show on Earth is produced by Earth Angel Productions, with Mark Wolper, Kenneth and Feld, Al Hassas and Reza Izad serving as executive producers.
Lean on Me will celebrate the lives of those who have mentored some of America's most successful people, documenting the unsung heroes who provided motivation and inspiration to others. Lean on Me is produced by Star Price Productions and former NBA player and current NBA on TNT announcer Kenny Smith.
Crimes of the Century will document just what its title implies, examining some of the most notorious crimes from the last hundred years while also providing historical perspective on the times during which they were committed. The series is produced by Scott Free Productions, with Ridley Scott, Tony Scott and Skip Chaisson serving as executive producers.
Behind the Drama will tell the largely unknown stories behind some of the greatest films, television dramas and leading actors, while also identifying and exploring the central forces that shaped each person or production. Behind the Drama is produced by Gay Rosenthal, creator of VH1's Behind the Music series.
Shadow of a Doubt is a new true-crime series produced by Star Price Productions, with Star Price executive-producing.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Tuesday, March 04, 2008 - 07:11 AM EST
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Flowers aren't the only thing to blossom in the spring, as the new season also means the birth of several new reality series, as well as the return of some old favorites that were in hibernation.
Not all of this spring's reality shows have formal premiere dates yet, but the following is Reality TV World's 2008 Reality TV Spring Preview, highlighting all of the currently known shows that will be premiering in coming months as well as where and when to tune in.
In addition, some shows that debuted recently -- including American Idol's seventh season, Big Brother: 'Til Death Do You Part, Survivor: Micronesia -- Fans vs. Favorites, America's Next Top Model's tenth cycle, Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew, The Moment of Truth, My Dad is Better Than Your Dad, and Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious -- and ongoing shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition will air new episodes during Spring 2008.
Oprah's Big Give (premieres Sunday, March 2 at 9PM ET/PT on ABC)
The first primetime series from the daytime talk-show queen's Harpo Productions, this new reality competition series will give contestants a large sum of money and the means to spend it in order to make a difference in people's lives across the country. Take that Tyra Banks!
Here Come the Newlyweds (premieres Sunday, March 2 at 10PM ET/PT on ABC)
As if being a newlywed wasn't challenging enough, this new reality competition series will pit seven recently married pairs against one another. With wedded bliss and a nest egg in the form of a cash prize on the line for the winning couple, divorce lawyers will undoubtedly be circling the losers like vultures.
That's Amore (premieres Sunday, March 2 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
During his stint as A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila suitor, Domenico Nesci was a goofy Italian who seemed to need as much help as he could get when it came to dating. So MTV decided to give him his own reality dating series, where he'll whittle down a group of 15 American women who will compete against one another in various challenges in an attempt to win his boot-shaped heart.
Little People, Big World, Season 3 (premieres Monday, March 3 at 8PM ET/PT on TLC)
Things weren't so peachy keen for the Roloff clan last summer when family patriarch Matt was arrested and charged with a DUI. His trial will be documented in the first three episodes of this reality show's third season -- which will also include some of the lighter moments fans are accustom to, such as Zach's attempts to woo his new girlfriend and Matt and Amy's cruise during the start of their farm's critical pumpkin season.
The Secret Life of Soccer Moms (premieres Monday, March 3 at 10PM ET/PT on TLC)
While soccer moms are no doubt good at driving minivans and dispensing orange slices, that's not exactly the extent of their aspirations in life. This new reality series delves into the more career-oriented goals that family matriarchs might want to undertake while also seeing if they're secure in the fact that motherhood is currently their No. 1 occupation.
Women Behind Bars (premieres Tuesday, March 4 at 9PM ET/PT on WE tv)
Paris Hilton isn't the typical female inmate, a fact that will be made abundantly clear to viewers in this new reality series, which will document the lives of women convicted of murder who are currently serving their prison sentence.
The Real Housewives of New York City (premieres Tuesday, March 4 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Housewives whose lives are fascinating enough to appear in a reality series apparently just don't exist in The O.C., a valuable lesson taught by this The Real Housewives of Orange County spin-off. This show definitely has the potential to set-up another spin-off, pitting housewives from both sides of the country against one another to see who does the best job of balancing their busy schedules with superficial shenanigans.
High School Reunion 4 (premieres Wednesday, March 5 at 10PM ET/PT on TV Land)
A 20-year reunion for 14 JJ Pearce High School Class of 1987 students in Maui -- a far cry from the local hotel ballroom -- sounds like a pretty sweet deal. Until the geek seeks an apology from the bully, who's been emotionally scarred for the last two decades. Then there's the spoiled girl who wants her millionaire boyfriend to propose to her again. And did we mention the love-triangle between the drama queen, the rebel and the backstabber?
The Ultimate Coyote Ugly Search 3 (premieres Friday, March 7 at 9PM ET/PT on CMT)
It takes a special sort of woman to dance and sing on bar tops while dispensing beverages, and the third season of this reality series will aim to find that type of lady, who will land the final spot in the Coyote Ugly traveling troupe and have men howling across America.
Ax Men (premieres Sunday, March 9 at 10PM ET/PT)
Flannel-clad, ax-wielding men that aren't serial killers are apparently abundant in the Pacific Northwest, and this new Ice Road Truckers-like reality series will chronicle the timber-cutting season of four crews who make their living chopping trees in places where more modern technology is unable to get the job done.
Beauty and the Geek 5 (premieres Tuesday, March 11 at 8PM ET/PT on The CW)
The fifth-season of this reality series will start off with the beauties competing against the geeks, so we're at a loss for where the show's "social experiment" maxim comes into play. Apparently the good-looking girls didn't pick on the nerds at producer Ashton Kutcher's high school.
Gene Simmons Family Jewels, Season 3 (premieres Tuesday, March 11 at 10PM ET/PT on A&E)
With a stint as a The Celebrity Apprentice candidate under his belt, the demonic face-painted KISS frontman is back to showing his more sensitive side in the third season of this reality series. Along the way, a couple of questions that have probably been on nobody but Shannon Tweed's mind will also be answered -- has Simmons really slept with more than 4,000 women in his life? And could he really have bedded them all before becoming happily UNmarried to Shannon in 1983?
College Hill: Atlanta (premieres Tuesday, March 11 at 10PM ET/PT on BET)
School is in session in Hot'lanta, as eight Atlanta-area students attending different institutions of higher learning are documented. Living under one roof, the group of students will have an opportunity to show-off their ingenuity by organizing charity events for hip hop artists while also flaunting their wild side during an international excursion.
Top Chef: Chicago (premieres Wednesday, March 12 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
The Windy City's infamous gusts are strong enough to blow-out the gas burners for 15 of the culinary up-and-comers competing on the fourth season of this reality series, as only one will be able to claim the show's grand prize package. At least they'll all probably learn how to make a mean deep-dish pizza as a consolation prize.
Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp (premieres Thursday, March 13 at 9PM ET/PT on VH1)
Obscenely overweight celebrities need-not-apply for the sixth season of this reality series, which instead assembled a "leaner" group of contestants who only need to lose 10 to 20 pounds each. Half of the show's cast will consist of contestants who have previously participated in the series -- including former Saved by the Bell actor Dustin Diamond -- who certainly didn't make any friends during the fifth season.
Moving Up, Season 3 (premieres Saturday, March 15 at 10PM ET/PT on TLC)
Barring an emotional attachment to walls and floors, many people happily forget their old digs once they purchase a new place. However the homeowners in the third season of this reality series will have the opportunity to see what happened to their house once it's reoccupied -- learning firsthand it's the people that make a family, not the bricks and mortar surrounding them.
Flip This House, Season 4 (premieres Saturday, March 15 at 11PM ET/PT on A&E)
Who says the real estate market is in a recession? The fourth season of this reality series will continue to follow real-estate moguls as they buy homes and quickly renovate them before selling them for a profit. The show has added a fourth market -- Los Angeles -- to its repertoire, meaning yet another reality series has turned to California for casting.
I Can Make You Thin (premieres Sunday, March 16 at 9PM ET/PT on TLC)
British hypnotist Paul McKenna wants to make you thin in this new reality series -- and better yet, it's sans diet and exercise, as he has a plan that will help you shed pounds without even leaving the couch! McKenna better not stay stateside too long or Jillian Michaels might hunt him down.
Dancing with the Stars 6 (premieres Monday, March 17 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC)
The mirror ball trophy is once again up for grabs in the sixth season of this reality series, with the six female celebrity participants hoping the fairer sex can claim the crown for the first time since Season 1. Back-to-back professional champ Julianne Hough will go for her third straight title with funnyman Adam Carolla, who would probably settle for a rumor that he's romantically involved with the blonde ballroom bombshell surfacing.
The Bachelor 12 (premieres Monday, March 17 at 9:30PM ET/PT)
American bachelors have had a hard time making a love connection in recent seasons of this reality dating series -- so producers went across the pond to find Londoner Matt Grant, who will serve as the twelfth installment's star. More James Bond than Mr. Bean, Grant is also hoping to break cliches about British men in an attempt to coax American women into the arms of his fellow countrymen.
I Know My Kid's a Star (premieres Thursday, March 20 at 10PM ET/PT on VH1)
Who better to find the next big child star than Danny Bonaduce? In this new reality competition series, the freckle-faced ginger who previously road the Partridge Family bus for several years will test the star power of child actors and the management skills of their parents. The former Breaking Bonaduce star may also show them how to ward of annoying fans using his patented suplex that shattered several of Jonny Fairplay's teeth.
The Hills, Season 3 (Monday, March 24 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
It's been a few months since we last saw Lauren Conrad, Heidi Montag and the rest of The Hills crew. Viewers will learn what happened on Lauren's trip to Paris, if she's booted Audrina Patridge out of her apartment, and if Heidi and former fiance Spencer Pratt reconciled. Of course, all of this stuff has already happened in real life, but to see the sort-of-unscripted way it all went down should still be entertaining.
Hell's Kitchen 4 (premieres Tuesday, April 1 at 9PM ET/PT on Fox)
The recently-ended Writers Guild of America strike led Fox to fire up the oven for this reality series a little earlier than usual. Gordon Ramsey will be back at the helm, and it's up to the contestants to pick out tasty morsels of helpful information from his profanity-laced tirades without getting burned.
DEA (premieres Wednesday, April 2 at 11PM ET/PT on Spike TV)
Don't let Al Roker's day job as a weatherman on NBC's Today Show you fool you. As executive producer of this new reality series, Roker will take viewers behind the scenes of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's Detroit division as they crack down on crack and other dangerous drugs and the peddlers who push them for a profit.
Step It Up & Dance (premieres Thursday, April 3 at 10PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Blending elements of So You Think You Can Dance and Project Runway, this new reality series will see 12 contestants put through a series of challenges that will have them auditioning for various roles, such as a music video or Las Vegas stage show. While they won't have Mary Murphy screaming in their ears as a distraction -- that should be a positive -- they may have to deal with actress and show host Elizabeth Berkley deciding to show off her Showgirls training instead.
Rock the Cradle (premieres Thursday, April 3 at 10PM ET/PT on MTV)
The eight celebrity spawn participating in this new reality competition series will try to prove they inherited some of their parents' talented genes, as they are pitted against one another in several challenges designed to test their own star power. Viewers can presumably expect tumultuous tantrums from the privileged offspring if things don't go well.
Date My House (premieres Saturday, April 5 at 8:30PM ET/PT on TLC)
The housing market is tough these days -- so in this new reality series, former The Bachelor fourth-season star Bob Guinea will help homeowners spruce up their dwelling in an attempt to woo potential buyers. Homeowners are hoping it's love at first sight without a nasty breakup in the public eye, something Guiney has experienced firsthand.
Secret Talents of the Stars (premieres Tuesday, April 8 at 10PM ET/PT on CBS)
America's Got Talent for B-List celebrities -- which is a kind classification -- this new reality series will feature movie, TV, sports and music stars as they compete in a tournament-style format to determine who has the best hidden talent among them. Highlights will include Danny Bonaduce riding a unicycle and former Star Trek actor George Takei crooning as a country singer -- and that's just scratching the surface.
Can You Duet (premieres Monday, April 14 at 10:30PM ET/PT on CMT)
What Nashville Star has does for solo country artists (and despite airing five seasons, the jury still largely seems to be out on that), this new reality series will aim to do for duos -- with the show's contestants performing duets with different partners on a weekly basis. Needless to say, contestants are hoping they compliment each other's vocals instead of stepping on their spurs.
Deadliest Catch, Season 4 (premieres Tuesday, April 15 at 9PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel)
Next time you have a rough day at the office, just be grateful you're not risking life and limb in subzero arctic weather, 60-mph winds and turbulent seas with waves the size of four-story buildings while mining the deep blue for king crabs. Those suckers can pinch too, but it's all in a days work for the crab-fishing captains and crews in this reality series' fourth season.
Work Out, Season 3 (premieres Tuesday, April 15 at 11PM ET/PT on Bravo)
Sky Sport & Spa is starting to seem a lot more like The Real World house and a lot less like a fitness center, as Jackie Warner deals with her split from Mimi and moves in with her new girlfriend Brianna while trainer Rachel Cardon is overcoming the emotional blow of her short-lived romantic relationship with Warner coming to an end.
The Big 4-0 (premieres Wednesday, April 16 at 10PM ET/PT on TV Land)
Age is only a number, but reaching a significant milestone in adulthood is also apparently a hell of an excuse to throw a killer bash. While many Americans hit their 39th birthday and cease to age, this new reality series will follow people who are actually preparing for their 40th birthdays and the over-the-hill jokes that come with it.
Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane, Season 2 (premieres Sunday, April 20 at 8 PM ET/PT on The Style Network)
It's Kimora Lee Simmons world, we're all just lucky enough to live in it, as the second season of this show will continue to follow the fashion mogul and family matriarch as she juggles both roles.
Farmer Wants a Wife (premieres Wednesday, April 30 at 9PM ET/PT on The CW)
The country bumpkin starring in this new Outback Jack-like reality series will attempt to find true love amongst a crop of women accustomed to the city life who have abandoned all hope of finding romance in an urban setting.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Friday, February 29, 2008 - 09:17 AM EST
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Now Phil Keoghan will apparently be able to win his own Emmy Award every year.
The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences plans to add a category recognizing reality television hosts, Daily Variety reported Tuesday.
The new category was unveiled at a recent retreat for the Academy's board of governors, and sources told Variety it's already been tentatively approved pending a final vote at the board's next meeting in mid-March.
An Academy of Television Arts & Sciences spokeswoman told Variety it was "premature" to discuss the category's addition, however "organization insiders" added with the continued recognition of reality television by the board, it's "basically a done deal."
Unlike the Daytime Emmys -- which include categories recognizing game and talk show hosts -- there is no equivalent for reality hosts at the Primetime Emmy Awards.
The Keoghan-hosted The Amazing Race received Outstanding Reality-competition Program honors during last September's broadcast of the 59th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards -- the fifth year in a row that the CBS show has captured the award. The Amazing Race remains the only show to win the award since the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences first created the category five years ago.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 - 08:14 AM EST
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Ben Silverman apparently figured better late than never.
The NBC Entertainment and NBC Universal Television Studio co-chairman sold his Reveille television production and distribution company for $125 million on Wednesday to Shine Ltd. -- a British production company owned by Rupert Murdoch's daughter Elisabeth, the Los Angeles Times reported Thursday.
"I love Reveille. It was my baby, and a huge amount of energy, commitment and life force went into building it," Silverman told the Times. "But I realized that I just wanted to focus 100% on NBC."
NBC hired Silverman last June as its new programming chief and during the last nine months, the Times reported Reveille has sold at least 14 shows and scripts to NBC for its primetime programming schedule.
Several ethics experts have questioned Silverman's situation, according to the Times, claiming NBC could have avoided conflict by forcing him to divest or simply by purchasing Reveille in June before he began recommending the production company's shows -- such as Nashville Star -- to the network.
"[Silverman's sale of Reveille is] too little too late," Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania business ethics professor Thomas Donaldson told the Times. "How do you second-guess a star producer in an artistic venue that is inherently subjective? Silverman was hired supposedly because he was the master at making such [programming] calls, which makes it all the more perplexing why NBC didn't do the right thing in the first place."
NBC established "safeguards" after hiring Silverman to avoid a conflict of interest, the Times reported, such as having chief executive Jeff Zucker make the final decision when it came to ordering programming.
"We have full confidence in the way NBC Universal has handled this matter," NBC Universal parent General Electric Co. told the Times.
Since NBC Universal's requirement that Silverman "remove" himself from Reveille's day-to-day management and not have an ownership interest in any Reveille projects seemingly failed to end outside criticism of the ethical conflict of interest, he began talks to sell the company to Shine Ltd. late last fall.
"Lis Murdoch is a dear friend," Silverman told the Times. "She was a handpicked buyer and she is the perfect person to look after the company and grow it to the next level."
Despite Silverman's sale of Reveille, NBC Universal told the Times various conflict-of-interest safeguards will remain in place, including the continual review of all Reveille projects due to Silverman's relationship with Elisabeth and the possibility he could return to the production company he founded after his contract with NBC expires in Summer 2009.
Silverman and Elisabeth have been friends for a decade, according to the Times, and he also served as her agent when working for London's William Morris office prior to launching Reveille.
It was during his time as a William Morris agent that Silverman -- who eventually became the company's youngest division head -- first rose to prominence. During his six years at the agency, he started the trend of producing American adaptations of foreign programs when he helped sell Who Wants to be a Millionaire? to ABC and Big Brother to CBS.
In early 2002, Silverman left his William Morris position to launch Reveille with the help of USA Entertainment -- which, at the time, had recently become part of Vivendi Universal Entertainment, which later became part of NBC's 2004 Vivendi Universal merger that created NBC Universal.
Michael Jackson, USA Entertainment's chairman and CEO at the time, had previously worked with Silverman when he was in charge of Channel 4, the British television network that broadcasts the U.K. edition of Big Brother (Big Brother, produced by recently-sold global reality TV giant Endemol, first aired in the Netherlands.)
Silverman and Reveille's first project was The Restaurant, an "advertiser supplied" reality series that was financed by "context relevant" advertisers and co-produced by Mark Burnett, who at the time, had already begun blazing the television industry's product placement trend with Survivor.
Although it was Reveille's first project, The Restaurant didn't premiere on NBC until July 2003, resulting in Nashville Star -- another Reveille reality project that aired on USA Network, at the time one of USA Entertainment's own cable networks -- making it to air first (Nashville Star premiered four months earlier in March 2003).
Also in 2003, Silverman began producing The Biggest Loser for NBC, followed by Blow Out -- a hair salon version of The Restaurant -- for Bravo in 2004. Since then, Reveille has been responsible for creating and producing numerous other unscripted shows, including NBC's $25 Million Dollar Hoax, Identity, and American Gladiators revival; MTV's Date My Mom and Parental Control; Bravo's Shear Genius; and FX Network's 30 Days.
Along the way, Silverman also began revisiting his William Morris days and acquired the rights to produce American adaptations of the U.K.'s Coupling and The Office and Latin America's Ugly Betty scripted series. Reveille ended up selling Coupling and The Office to NBC and Ugly Betty to ABC, and although Coupling ended up bombing in the ratings stateside, The Office (which won the 2006 Outstanding Comedy Series Emmy Award) and Ugly Betty (which won last year's Best Comedy Series Golden Globe Award) have given the company a strong foothold in scripted programming.
When NBC took over Universal in May 2004, Reveille and Silverman began licensing NBC Universal's program format lineup internationally for NBC and closed more than 50 format deals in over 30 countries in only a year.
After being appointed as co-chairman last summer -- along with veteran NBC Universal executive Marc Graboff, who filled NBC's other newly created co-chairman position -- Silverman stated he was "taking a massive financial hit" by taking the position with NBC but added one of the perks of the deal was that he'd still retain ownership of Reveille.
Grant Tinker -- who sold his interest in MTM Enterprises after being hired as NBC's programming chief in 1981 -- declined to specifically comment on the Silverman situation when questioned by the Times, however he did offer some general perspective.
"You can't be buying programs and selling them at the same time," Tinker told the Times. "I didn't realize as much value as I could have [in the transaction]."
With its recent acquisition of Reveille, the Times reported Shine is now Britain's fourth-largest independent television production company.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio and Steve Rogers on Friday, February 15, 2008 - 08:56 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Tuesday, February 12, 2008 - 10:41 PM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Monday, February 11, 2008 - 05:45 AM EST
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Posted by: Steve Rogers on Saturday, February 09, 2008 - 05:01 AM EST
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With 100 potential matches, one lucky lady has to like those odds.
Lifetime has ordered the pilot for The Big Match, a new reality dating show that will follow 100 single men as they compete for a "dream date" with one woman, Daily Variety reported Tuesday.
So You Think You Can Dance host Cat Deeley will helm the new series, Variety reported.
The Big Match is being produced by Granada America and reportedly represents the first "major" project ordered from Paul Buccieri, an ex-Fox programming executive who was appointed president and CEO of the European production company's American arm last month. In addition, The Big Match marks the first show ordered by Lifetime and produced by Granada America that isn't a miniseries or movie.
"Granada America has a longstanding relationship with Lifetime as a provider of movies for television, and we are delighted to be able to expand our partnership into this new genre," Buccieri told Variety.
Although it hasn't worked with Lifetime before, Granada has plenty of television series experience. In addition to being one of the U.K.'s largest television production companies, the company has also produced or co-produced many American reality TV shows, including Airline, Celebrity Fit Club, Hell's Kitchen, Kitchen Nightmares, Nanny 911, and Phenomenon.
The Big Match, which is based on a format from executive producers Michael Agbabian and Dwight Smith, is also currently in development in the U.K., Variety reported.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, February 07, 2008 - 03:27 AM EST
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Britney Spears and Kevin Federline previously had no problem letting fans in on their lifestyle, but the current situation surrounding the pop princess is apparently just too chaotic for Federline to let reality cameras role again.
Federline has put the breaks on plans for a reality show documenting his life as a single dad, E! News reported Tuesday.
"His plans are on hold because of the Britney situation," a "source close to Federline" told E! News. "He had planned to do it, but not now."
While a Federline rep offered no comment on the situation surrounding the reality series, the source told E! News that the former Mr. Spears has been in talks with the show's potential producers "for months." In addition, Federline was also reportedly "looking into" launching a business that could be incorporated in the series.
"[But now] everything is on hold," the source told E! News.
Federline has been busy in recent weeks recording tracks and working with other artists at his home studio in order to spend more time with his and Spears' two boys -- toddlers Sean Preston and Jayden James, according to E! News. He was awarded primary physical and legal custody of the two tots last October.
While Federline has been doing his best to stay out of the spotlight in recent weeks -- the exact opposite could be said of Spears, who had visitation privileges with her two sons taken away early last month after she refused to relinquish Jayden over to Federline's bodyguard when their visit ended, prompting a visit from police.
She subsequently underwent a 24-hour mental and physical checkup at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and was released. However last Thursday, she was hospitalized for a second time on a 72-hour hold that was extended to potentially 14 days after doctors determined her condition was serious enough to warrant additional observation, E! News reported.
Spears was released from UCLA Medical Center's psych ward Wednesday morning.
Federline and Spears previously starred in the short-lived Britney & Kevin: Chaotic reality series, which aired five episodes on the now-defunct UPN in Summer 2005.
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Posted by: Christopher Rocchio on Thursday, February 07, 2008 - 01:57 AM EST
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After spending its first 12 years of existence focused on more traditional wildlife observational programming, Animal Planet is relaunching and rebranding itself around a new more adult-targeted programming schedule that will include animal-themed reality shows and additional Meerkat Manor-like anthropomorphic series.
"We're not looking to be a natural history channel. We're looking to be an entertainment destination," Marjorie Kaplan, the president of Discovery Communications-owned cable network, told The New York Times last month.
"It made us unimportant to everyone," Kaplan told The Times about the network's previous "something for everyone" programming format.
Animal Planet's new programming will attempt to "tap into the instincts that drive us all -- fear, hunger, pleasure, [and] nurture," via several new series that are scheduled to debut in the coming months.
"We feel a little too human, a little too soft, a little too all-family and not powerful enough," Kaplan told Broadcasting & Cable last month. "We're being more aggressive and tapping into the instinctual nature of compelling animal content."
One of the new shows will be Lemur Kingdom, a new anthropomorphic series similar to Meerkat Manor and Orangutan Island -- the top-rated Animal Planet shows which already reflect the network's new programming strategy.
"[Before Meerkat Manor] there were these unspoken rules that you didn't put names on animals and you didn't give them human characteristics," Animal Planet marketing executive Vicki Lowell told The Times.
Lemur Kingdom will follow the lives of two rival groups of ring-tailed lemurs living in the protective reserve of Berenty on the island of Madagascar off the coast of Africa, and is scheduled to premiere Friday, February 8 at 8PM ET/PT. The show's 15 half-hour episodes were filmed over the course of a year and captures unprecedented footage of lemurs' behavior.
Escape to Chimp Eden, another of the network's new shows, will follow Eugene Cussons, the managing director of Chimpanzee Eden, a South African wildlife sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates chimpanzees from war-torn countries like Sudan and Angola. Escape to Chimp Eden will premiere Friday, February 8 at 9:30PM ET/PT and air regularly at 9PM ET/PT beginning February 15.
Animal Planet is also developing three new more pet-centered reality shows -- Groomer Has It, Clinically Wild Alaska and Petfinder -- as part of its rebranding effort.
Groomer Has It is a reality competition series that will follow 15 groomers from across the country as they converge on Los Angeles with their canines and pit their pups against one another in various challenges. Groomer Has It, which began production recently, is being produced by 3 Ball Productions, whose previous credits include Age of Love, Beauty and the Geek, The Biggest Loser, and Endurance.
Clinically Wild Alaska will follow the staff of Anchorage, AK's Pet Emergency Treatment 24-hour hospital, where the patients range from bald eagles, porcupines and moose to dogs and cats. The show is scheduled to premiere Friday, February 8 at 10:30PM ET/PT before moving to its regular time slot of Fridays at 9:30PM ET/PT beginning February 22.
Each half-hour episode of Petfinder will tell the true story of previously homeless pets being matched with a new owner via the New Jersey-based pet adoption website petfinder.com. In addition, the show will also encourage viewers to adopt pets of their own. The 13-episode series is scheduled to premiere Saturday, February 9 at 9PM ET/PT.
"It's inspirational without being a total tear-fest," Petfinder executive producer Dina Wanner recently told New Jersey's The Star-Ledger. "If anything, viewers may shed tears of joy."
Animal Planet is also planning to launch three additional new unscripted shows -- Whale Wars, A Year with Lions, and After the Attack -- as part of its relaunch.
Whale Wars will follow the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society's effort to eradicate illegal whaling operations by using radical methods, such as disabling or sinking whaling ships and disrupting whale carcass processing.
A Year with Lions |
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