10.07.2007
"The Successor" goes to NBC
From SevenOne International:
SevenOne International sells
Uri Geller and Criss Angel search for the next great Mentalist in the USA
SevenOne International, the worldwide programming distribution subsidiary of the ProSiebenSat.1 Group, has sold "The Successor" to America and is coproducing the TV show together with Granada America, Keshet Broadcasting and Kuperman Productions for NBC. In the mysterious live competition series, famed mentalist Uri Geller sets out along with the American mystifyer/artist Criss Angel in search of America's next great Mentalist. NBC is broadcasting the show with the title "Phenomenon" (working title). The spectacular talent show tests 10 hopeful mentalists who must compete each week to demonstrate a wide spectrum of mystifying talents on a panel of weekly celebrity guests who participate along with a studio audience. Geller and Angel will assess the contestants and offer their unfiltered opinions. Ultimately, the winner's fate will be determined by the viewers at home.
"The Successor" is based on the Israeli TV show which was created by Keshet Broadcasting, Kuperman Productions and Uri Geller. The show aired in spring 2007 on Keshet, Channel 2, with an average market share of 50 percent - the highest ever recorded in Israel's television history.
Jens Richter, Managing Director of SevenOne International: "It was obvious to us from the beginning that "The Successor" has the potential for an international success. We are very excited to have NBC as a partner. They immediately understood the power of this format, which proves that we were correct in our evaluation. And there are more to follow."
Ben Silverman, Co-Chairman NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios: "The match-up of two world-famous personalities, Uri Geller and Criss Angel - who have demonstrated astounding skills - makes for a riveting series format. Factor in the mystery of the genre, the live competitive angle as the contestants attempt to follow in Criss and Uri's footsteps, and incredible interactive applications, and we think viewers will have many compelling reasons to watch."
David Gyngell, Managing Director of Granada America: "Phenomenon" is a show with cult potential and Granada is excited about doing a live show for NBC. It's a great idea."
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