
90-Day
Archives |
"Perfect Match" Twice as Perfect
Netflix Renews Reality Dating Series
From Deadline |
Netflix is searching for more perfect matches. The streamer has renewed reality dating series Perfect Match for a second season.
It comes after the launch of Season 1 in February, having spent five weeks on Netflix's Global Top 10 English TV list, reaching the Top 10 TV lists in 58 countries.
Perfect Match brings together the most famously single stars of Netflix's unscripted series such as Love Is Blind, The Ultimatum, Too Hot To Handle and The Mole to a tropical paradise in an attempt to find love. As they compete to form relationships, the most compatible couples will play matchmaker, breaking up other couples and sending them on dates with brand-new singles they'll invite to the villa. Will they create better matches, or will they create chaos?
Deadline |
posted 4/18/2023 |
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MONDAY: A Little Help from Our Friends
Fox, ABC Split Demo, NBC Wins Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, Fox's 9-1-1 and ABC's American Idol tied for the Monday demo win, while NBC's The Voice delivered the night's largest audience.
9-1-1 (with 4.3 million total viewers and a 0.5 rating) was steady, while Fantasy Island (1.8 mil/0.2) rebounded from last episode's season lows with a Wonder Years reunion.
American Idol (4.1 mil/0.5) dipped week-to-week, as did The Good Doctor (3.4 mil/0.3).
The Voice (5.1 mil/0.4) dipped week-to-week with the Knockouts kickoff, followed by That's My Jam's 3.1 mil/0.3.
CBS's The Neighborhood (4.7 mil/0.4) and Bob Loves Abishola (4.3 mil/0.3) both ticked down, leading into NCISes reruns.
The CW's All American (440K/0.1) matched its second-smallest audience of the season.
Monday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Spring Baking Championship (Food): 1.026m/0.17
- Master Minds (GSN): 511k/0.04
- Switch
(GSN): 480k/0.05
- Split Second (P/GSN): 455k/0.07
- Race to Survive Alaska (USA): 408k/0.14
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/18/2023 |
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"Golden Egg" Cracks
Glow Media, WBITVP Team on Format
From TBI |
Belgian format firm Glow Media has inked a multi-territory partnership with Warner Bros International Television Production (WBITVP) to produce new competiton format The Golden Egg.
The partnership, which was inked at MIPTV in Cannes this week, will see WBITVP will represent the format in selected WBITVP territories including the UK and Australia.
The Golden Egg is a Free Kings format piloted for Belgian pubcaster VRT. The gameshow sees 100 objects displayed in an immersive studio. The contestants must attempt to find the Golden Egg, the most valuable item, amongst them to take home the largest cash prize.
Andrew Zein, SVP of creative, format development and sales at WBITVP, said: "The idea and the pilot blew us all away from the first moment Glow Media presented it. We couldn't be more delighted to partner with them on bringing this to broadcasters across our territories."
Siobhan Crawford, Glow Media co-founder added: "Belgian content is just so important to the international market and this format just resonates with audiences. Warner are trusted partners plus have an excellent track record with building the brand of Cash Or Trash."
TBI |
posted 4/18/2023 |
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Vanna White Heads to Wheel Casino
Likeness to Be Used Online
From Casino City Times |
Iconic Wheel of Fortune co-host Vanna White has lent her likeness as the face of Wheel of Fortune Online Casino, the first brand-led online casino in North America. BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, recently launched Wheel of Fortune Online Casino, home to America's Game-branded slot titles. White will star in omnichannel advertisements promoting Wheel of Fortune Online Casino and will also appear in additional marketing materials supporting the mobile app.
"Vanna White is synonymous with Wheel of Fortune and BetMGM is happy to work with her in connection with promoting the newly launched Wheel of Fortune Online Casino," said Matt Prevost, BetMGM's Chief Revenue Officer. "At retail casinos and online, Wheel of Fortune slots continue to be player favorites which is a testament to the slot innovators at IGT."
White has become a household icon as co-host of Wheel of Fortune, the beloved gameshow. She started with the show in 1982 and has appeared in versions of the show in every daypart, including the primetime spinoff, Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, which launched in 2021 and remains on the air. White has starred in over 7,500 episodes and is known for showcasing a stunning new outfit every night as she reveals letters on the puzzle board and cheers on contestants.
"After 40 years, I love the way Wheel of Fortune continues to find new ways to entertain and engage," said White. "I'm excited to help BetMGM to promote this first-of-its-kind online casino, where players can experience the excitement of Wheel of Fortune slots in their own home."
Wheel of Fortune Online Casino is now available for download in New Jersey on both iOS and Android and accessible via desktop at www.wheeloffortunecasino.com.
Casino City Times |
posted 4/18/2023 |
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Fox Alternative Entertainment Greenlights Three
"Beat My Mini-Mes", "Marriage Market" Head Overseas; "Show Must Go On" Wins Seed
From the Futon Critic |
A talent format from Format Workshop in Turkey that asks viewers at home to scan QR codes to vote for their favourite performers has earned a cash prize from Fox Alternative Entertainment (FAE) here in Cannes. Allison Wallach
The format, titled Show Must Go On, saw off competition from three other contenders in the MipFormats Pitch session today at MipTV. FAE, Fox Entertainment's in-house unscripted studio, picked the four projects out of a record 89 submissions from 27 countries.
FAE previously unveiled two new series created by the company under its International Unscripted Format Fund -- the celebrity competition Beat My Mini-Mes (working title) for TF1 in France and the dating program Marriage Market (working title) for Germany's ProSieben. The announcement was made today by Allison Wallach, President, Unscripted Programming, of FOX Entertainment.
Jointly developed by FAE and TF1, Beat My Mini-Mes is a big studio competition series where celebrity singers face off while surrounded by talented children who are all wearing the same outfit as they are, like mini-mes. After multiple rounds of stunning and hypnotizing performances, only one kid will help their team be crowned the winner. Co-produced by TF1 Production and FAE, Beat My Mini-Mes will premiere later this year.
Marriage Market is a dating reality series and a social experiment that sees parents select their child's husband or wife in a dedicated market where other parents have decorated booths according to their own kid's personality. The parents and newly introduced couple then live all together in a house, where the kids get to know each other under the close watch of their parents. Premiering in the second half of this year (TBC) on ProSieben and on Joyn, Marriage Market was developed by FAE and ProSieben, which will produce with Cheerio Entertainment, a Seven.One Studios company.
Created and financed by FOX, both the Beat My Mini-Mes and Marriage Market formats are owned and distributed by FOX Alternative Entertainment.
The FUton Critic
Deadline
C21 Media |
posted 4/18/2023 |
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"Traitors" Arrive in Canada
Crave TV to Air US, UK, Australia Version
From Deadline |
Canada's Crave has swooped for the U.S., UK and Australian versions of The Traitors while the smash Dutch format is set to made in six more territories, bringing the overall total to 20.
Crave owner Bell Media has taken the unprecedented step of buying all three versions of The Traitors' biggest productions, as Mip TV kicks off in Cannes.
Studio Lambert produces the U.S. and UK versions from a Scottish castle and Endemol Shine Australia is behind the show Down Under. They are helmed by Alan Cumming, Claudia Winkleman and Rodger Corser respectively and the three have been renewed by Peacock, the BBC and Network 10 for second seasons. They differ in certain ways, with the U.S. version being the only one that includes some celebrities. Peacock has bought the UK and Australian versions and the BBC has bought the U.S. version.
Deadline
Variety |
posted 4/18/2023 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Another One" |
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posted 4/18/2023 |
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ITV Entertainment
Season 2: May 14
TBS Announces Season 2 After a Delay
From the Futon Critic |
TBS' high-octane competition series, "The Cube," hosted by three-time NBA Champion, one of the NBA's 75 all-time greatest players, and founder of 59th and Prairie Entertainment, Dwyane Wade, will return for its second season on Sunday, May 14, at 9:00PM ET/PT. Season two will feature more games, celebrities, and winners. Actresses Gabrielle Union-Wade and La La Anthony partner to kick off the first episode to beat 'The Cube' and win money for charity. Other celebrity guests, competing for charities, will be woven throughout episodes and will include NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal, GRAMMY(R) Award nominated, CMA & ACM Award winning country music star Jimmie Allen, and NBA Champion Iman Shumpert.
"The Cube" follows contestant pairs who must demonstrate skill, nerve and determination as they endure seemingly simple physical and mental tasks - all while confined in 'The Cube,' an intimidating glass box with its own mind and attitude, in the hope of winning a major cash prize. Working on their own or as a team, each pair has nine lives to complete seven games that are worth an increasing amount of money as they inch closer to taking home the $250,000 jackpot. In addition to the Simplify assist and fan-favorite One Shot assist that allows teams the opportunity to call on superstar athlete Wade to take their place inside the Cube, the upcoming season will also feature a third assist for contestants to unlock when they reach the $50,000 game. The third assist called Trial Run is a free practice attempt at a game - no prize for winning, no penalty for losing - but the big decision comes afterwards when they must decide whether to walk away or take that game on for real.
"The Cube" is created by Objective Media Group, an All3Media company, and is produced by Objective Media Group for TBS. The series is executive produced by entrepreneur and philanthropist Dwyane Wade and his production company, 59th & Prairie Entertainment, as well as Layla Smith and Jilly Pearce for Objective Media Group with showrunner Glenn Coomber.
The FUton Critic
Warner Bros. Discovery PR |
posted 4/17/2023 |
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SUNDAY: Hawai'i Showcase
ABC, CBS Split Sunday
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, ABC's American Idol led Sunday in the demo, while CBS' 60 Minutes clocked in with the night's biggest audience.
AFV (with 4.5 million total viewers and a 0.4 rating), American Idol (5.1 mil/0.6, read recap) and The Company You Keep (2.3 mil/0.2) all added viewers, with Idol also rising in the demo.
Leading out of 60 Minutes (7 mil/0.5), The Equalizer (6.4 mil/0.4) and East New York (4.7 mil/0.3) were both down, but NCIS: Los Angeles (4.2 mil/0.3, was a new spinoff teased?) was steady.
NBC's Magnum P.I. (3.2 mil/0.2) and The Blacklist (1.7 mil/0.1) both dipped, with the latter matching series lows.
Fox's Bob's Burgers drew 640K and a 0.2, followed by The Great North's 600K/0.2 and Family Guy's 840K/0.3 and 870K/0.3.
Sunday's cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Ciao House (P/Food): 840k/0.12
- Alex vs. America (SP/Food): 680k/0.11
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/17/2023 |
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FRIDAY: Wig-Swap!
ABC, Fox Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, Fox's SmackDown led Friday in the demo, while CBS' Blue Bloods rerun copped the night's largest audience.
ABC's Shark Tank (with 3.1 million total viewers and a 0.3 demo rating) slipped to at least season lows.
Friday Night SmackDown (2.2 mil/0.5) was down.
Leading out a Lopez vs. Lopez rerun (1.4 mil/0.2), Grand Crew (990K/0.2) was down 17% in audience on NBC.
A Blue Bloods repeat drew 3.3 million total viewers.
The CW's Penn & Teller: Fool Us (640K/0.1), Whose Line Is It Anyway? (550K/0.1) and The Great American Joke Off (410K/0.1) were all up in viewers.
Friday's cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- RuPaul's Drag Race (SF/MTV): 660k/0.27
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/17/2023 |
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"Split Second" to Shop Around
Marcus/Glass to Shop New Series Globally
From Deadline |
Classic game show Split Second returns in the U.S. tonight and now it's going international – again.
French distributor Can't Stop Media is at Mip TV with the Game Show Network trivia show reboot from Marcus / Glass Productions that begins today in the U.S. Split Second is making a comeback on GSN today at 7.30pm ET, running stripped across the week with John Michael Higgins (Saved by the Bell, Best in Show) hosting.
The original, which ran on ABC in the US from 1972 to 1975, aired for more than 1,000 episodes. It was was re-versioned and syndicated across Canada from 1986-1987 and was adapted in Australia for Nine Network in 1972, and in the UK between 1987-1988 on STV.
Deadline |
posted 4/17/2023 |
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ABC
Ryan Seacrest Says Goodbye... to "Live"
"American Idol" Host a "Blooming Onion"
From Deadline |
In a teary, pre-taped episode of ABC's Live With Kelly And Ryan, Ryan Seacrest and Kelly Ripa capped off Seacrest's final episode with emotional pledges of forever love and mutual appreciation.
And Ripa called Seacrest a blooming onion.
After explaining that they'd promised one another they wouldn't cry, the two soon enough broke the promise. In her final farewell, Ripa said, "From the bottom of my heart and the bottom of all of our hearts, we just want to thank you for being wonderful, for being an original, authentic addition to this show. You are forever our family. We will never say goodbye to you. We will only say, 'See you soon.' I love you."
Ripa also compared Seacrest to "an onion with all these layers. But, really, what you are is a blooming onion, because you are layers upon layers of goodness, of kindness, of charm, of brilliance, authenticity, and generosity. Your generosity is unmatched."
"I've spent my entire career talking, talking on radio and talking on television," Seacrest said. "Words are my bread and butter, my wheelhouse, but today it's hard to put into words how deeply I've appreciated being here and being with you, being invited into your homes every day to try and deliver a smile or a laugh or two… I'm honored to be part of this family."
Seacrest called himself "a very lucky man," adding, "I want you all to know, it's not lost on me how fortunate I am." He later called his years on the morning talk show "a memorable ride and now I'm excited to pass the baton to Kelly's 'real' husband, Mark."
Seacrest's parents and sister joined the cohosts for an on-stage toast, and Seacrest's four-year-old niece Flora appeared in a video message.
The American Idol host announced his departure from Live With Kelly And Ryan in February. The show will become Live With Kelly And Mark when Ripa's husband, actor Mark Consuelos, takes over on Monday.
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter |
posted 4/14/2023 |
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THURSDAY: The Calm Before the Storm
Four-Way Tie for Demo Win
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, there was a four-way tie for the Thursday demo win, while CBS' Young Sheldon delivered the night's biggest audience.
ABC's Station 19 (with 3.8 million total viewers and a 0.4 demo rating) was steady. Grey's Anatomy (3.3 mil/0.3) was steady with its first hour, but the second (3 mil/0.3) slipped to series lows.
CBS' Young Sheldon (6.6 mil/0.4) and Ghosts (6.1 mil/0.4) were both down in audience and respectively hit and tied demo lows. So Help Me Todd (4.5 mil/0.3) and CSI: Vegas (3.3 mil/0.3) each added eyeballs and were steady in the demo.
Fox's Next Level Chef (1.6 mil/0.3) slipped to at least season lows, while Animal Control (1 mil/0.2) hit and matched its lowest numbers to date.
Thursday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Beat Bobby Flay (Food): 686k/0.11
- Battlebots (Discovery): 589k/0.09
- Top Chef World All-Stars (Bravo): 574k/0.17
- Fast Foodies (R/Food): 501k/0.09
- Switch (GSN): 413k/0.05
- Nick Cannon Presents Wild'n Out - 9p (VH1): 157k/0.07
- Nick Cannon Presents Wild'n Out - 9:30p (VH1): 151k/0.08
- Ex on the Beach (MTV): 118k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/14/2023 |
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Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Underrated" |
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posted 4/14/2023 |
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Click Orlando
Captain's Log...
William Shatner to Host "Stars on Mars" for Fox
From the Futon Critic |
Hollywood, we have a problem! FOX presents Stars on Mars, an out-of-this-world new unscripted series, in which household names trade in their possessions, status and glamourous lifestyles on Earth for an insane and hilarious summer on "Mars." Their mission? To be suited up with no space to go, as they colonize, compete and conquer their new galaxy surroundings, until there is just one "celebronaut" left standing. Legendary actor and Star Trek icon William Shatner serves as Mission Control and will deliver intergalactic tasks to these shining stars throughout their journey on the red planet. Stars on Mars touches down Monday, June 5 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.
"The moment I heard the pitch for Stars on Mars, I knew a show this bold, this big and this outlandish simply belonged on FOX," said Allison Wallach, President of Unscripted Programming, FOX Entertainment. "Watching celebrities take giant leaps out of their comfort zone and step into the unexpected will no doubt be truly transformational and comical. Throughout, we will learn a lot about these stars, and when you factor in William Shatner leading the charge from Mission Control, we have the makings of a show that's ready for blast off."
"Good news for our celebronauts from Mission Control," reports Shatner. "Thanks to lower gravity on Mars, you'll weigh 62% less. Bad news: the air is unbreathable, so if you're from LA, it'll remind you of home."
This summer, adventurous celebrities prepare for take-off to the red planet, where they will live, eat, sleep, strategize, and bond with each other in the same space station. During their stay, they will be faced with authentic conditions that simulate life on Mars, and they must use their brains and brawn - or maybe just their stellar social skills - to outlast the competition and claim the title of brightest star in the galaxy. The celebrities will compete in missions and will vote to eliminate one of their crewmates each week, sending them back to Earth. Cue the intergalactic alliances and rivalries. Stars on Mars will send these famous rookie space travelers where no one has gone before and reveal who has what it takes to survive life on "Mars."
Stars on Mars is produced by Eureka Productions, a Fremantle company. Chris Culvenor, Paul Franklin, Wes Dening and Eden Gaha serve as executive producers, along with Charles Wachter, serving as executive producer and showrunner.
Stars on Mars is an original format created by Chris Culvenor of Eureka Productions. Fremantle has international distribution rights to the Stars on Mars format.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Wrap
The Hollywood REporter
Variety
TV Insider
Giant Freaking Robot
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posted 4/13/2023 |
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WEDNESDAY: No Lie
CBS Wins with NBC in Reruns
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with NBC's #OneChicago in rerun mode for a while: CBS' Survivor dominated this Wednesday in both the demo and in total viewers.
Survivor hit a season high in viewers (5.3 million) and was steady in the demo (with a 0.7). True Lies rose to its largest audience (2.7 mil) since its premiere and was also steady in the demo (0.2).
Leading out of a Flash rerun on the CW, Riverdale (222K/0.0) was down in both measures.
Fox's The Masked Singer (3.8 mil/0.5) and Farmer Wants a Wife (2 mil/0.2) both dipped in the demo.
Leading out of a Conners rerun on ABC, The Goldbergs (2.2 mil/0.3) dipped, but Abbott Elementary (2.7 mil/0.5), Not Dead Yet (2.1 mil/0.3) and A Million Little Things (1.9 mil/0.2) were all steady.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Guy's Grocery Games (Food): 565k/0.10
- Switch (GSN): 449k/0.04
- Master Minds (GSN): 427k/0.02
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/13/2023 |
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Lego Masters Heads to Japan
TBS to Air Localized Version
From Variety |
Competition reality TV format "Lego Masters" has been picked up by Tokyo Broadcasting System for adaptation in Japan. The deal is the 19th for the Banijay Rights-represented format and the third in Asia.
Production is currently underway for the show, which will see pairs compete against each other to wow judges with inspiring designs and brick builds.
"I am looking forward to working with Banijay Rights and not only learn about the production of the show, but also to closely examine the essence of creation behind it," said Aso Kunihiro, producer, contents solution department at TBS in a prepared statement.
"Lego Masters is a masterstroke of a global format that continues to provide uplifting viewing to audiences worldwide," said Rashmi Bajpai, EVP sales Asia, Banijay Rights, who negotiated the TBS deal.
Originally created by Tuesday's Child Television and the Lego Group, Banijay globally distributes the format and finished tape for the show. In Asia, local adaptations have previously been aired by MBC in South Korea and by Shenzhen TV in China. New versions of "Lego Masters" are to be produced by TV Markiza in Slovakia and TV Nova in the Czech Republic, following other versions in Europe, the U.S. and Australia.
"We are so excited that families in Japan will have an opportunity to enjoy this global phenomenon. 'Lego Masters celebrates Lego building at its very best – creative, ingenious, great teamwork and lots and lots of fun. We are looking forward to inspiring Japanese builders of all ages," said Michael Ebbesen, GM of Lego Japan.
Variety |
posted 4/13/2023 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Beating an Emergency" |
- Jamie Foxx recovering from "medical complication" (Deadline)
- Howie Mandel fires back against Andy Cohen (TV Insider)
- LeVar Burton talks about Jeopardy! leading to Picard (TV Insider)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Michael Higgins (WFLD Chicago)
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posted 4/12/2023 |
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Warner Bros. Discovery
No HBO, Just Max
Warner Bros. Discovery Reveals New Streamer
From the FUton Critic |
Warner Bros. Discovery (Nasdaq: WBD) today introduced Max, its enhanced streaming service, which will launch in the U.S. on May 23. Max is the destination for HBO Originals, Warner Bros. films, Max Originals, the DC universe, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an expansive offering of kids content, and best-in-class programing across food, home, reality, lifestyle and documentaries from leading brands like HGTV, Food Network, Discovery Channel, TLC, ID and more. Max will stand out amongst streamers by uniquely combining unrivaled breadth and superior quality with iconic franchises and strong product experience, all for great value.
"From the biggest superheroes to real life champions; from culture-shaping dramas to taste-shaping entertainment; from fantastical realms to the realest of worlds, Max will offer an unrivaled range of choice," said JB Perrette, President & CEO, Global Streaming & Games, Warner Bros. Discovery. "This new brand signals an important change from two narrower products, HBO Max and discovery+, to our broader content offering and consumer proposition. While each product offered something for some people, Max will have a broad array of quality choices for everybody."
According to the service's website, Max will be available in three different versions. The first two plans align with the existing HBO Max pricing, and WBD said current HBO Max customers will not see their pricing change (for now) when the new service debuts. The third tier, "Max Ultimate," expands to up to four streams and includes 4K content. The trio of options are:
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Max Ad-Lite ($9.99/month or $99.99/year): Two concurrent streams, 1080p HD resolution, no offline downloads, 5.1 surround sound quality
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Max Ad Free ($15.99/month or $149.99/year): Two concurrent streams, 1080p HD, up to 30 offline downloads, 5.1 surround sound quality
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Max Ultimate Ad Free ($19.99/month or $199.99/year): Four concurrent streams, up to 4K Ultra HD resolution, 100 offline downloads, Dolby Atmos sound quality
Why did the company decide to drop HBO from the HBO Max name? JB Perrette, president and CEO of global streaming and games for Warner Bros. Discovery, explained the thinking behind the rebranding — while saying HBO will be preserved as a brand within the Max fold.
"We all love HBO, and it's a brand that has been built over five decades" to stand for "edgy, groundbreaking entertainment for adults," Perrette said. "But it's not exactly where parents would most eagerly drop off their kids. And yet Warner Bros. Discovery has some of the best-known kids' characters, animation and brands in the industry. Not surprisingly, the category has not met his true potential on HBO Max."
If you get HBO with your cable or satellite TV package, you may have access to Max at no extra cost, according to Warner Bros. Discovery. Distribution partners currently lined up to offer Max are: AT&T, Cox, Cricket, DirecTV, Dish, Hulu, Altice USA's Optimum, Amazon's Prime Video Channels, Charter's Spectrum, Verizon and Comcast's Xfinity.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
Reality Blurred
Variety
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posted 4/12/2023 |
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More on "Jeopardy! Masters"
Catch It on ABC May 8
From TV Insider |
There are only four weeks to go until Jeopardy! Masters and the show is building the hype with an epic new poster and a first-look GIF of the six returning champions on the Alex Trebek stage.
"They're all Jeopardy! champions. Now, they're facing their toughest competition yet: each other," reads the caption on the official Jeopardy! Twitter account alongside a poster that shows host Ken Jennings flanked by the six iconic players. A massive clue board surrounds the group on all sides.
The six contestants taking part in the new tournament are last year's Tournament of Champions winner Amy Schneider, along with fellow fan-favorites Matt Amodio, Sam Buttrey, Andrew He, James Holzhauer, and Mattea Roach.
TV Insider
What to WAtch |
posted 4/12/2023 |
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Meet Josh Duhamel & His Buddies
CBS Greenlights Competition Series
From Deadline |
The trend of turning movies into reality series continues to gain steam.
Buddy Games, the 2019 comedy directed by and starring Josh Duhamel, has been adapted into a reality competition series for CBS. The series, which comes from Real World and The Challenge producer Bunim Murray and CBS Studios, has been shot with Duhamel as host and the actor will executive produce via his Dakota Kid Productions banner.
The film centers on a group of six friends that reunite after a five-year hiatus to engage in a challenging set of dares and games and help lift one of their own out of depression and also have a chance of winning $150,000 while doing so.
Directed by Duhamel, it also starred Olivia Munn, Dax Shepard, Kevin Dillon and Neal McDonough. It was produced by WWE Studios and distributed by Saban Films. A sequel to the film is currently in the works.
It was originally ordered under the previous administration, led by Kelly Kahl, before Amy Reisenbach took over in November. The series is also exec produced by Michael J. Luisi, Julie Pizzi, Rupert Dobson, Jacob Lane and Emer Harkin.
"Being able to bring Buddy Games to CBS is truly a dream come true for me," said Duhamel. "This is something my buddies and I have wanted to share with the world for a long time as we knew there was a relatability to it with other people doing similar things to strengthen their friendships. For me, getting to executive produce and host Buddy Games while observing these groups of friends let loose and become part of this big family has been an honor and will be a lot of fun for viewers to watch."
Deadline
Variety
The Futon Critic |
posted 4/12/2023 |
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TUESDAY: FBI Keeps Momentum Going
CBS Wins Night Outright, Splits Demo with Fox
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' #TheFBIs tied Fox's 9-1-1: Lone Star for the Tuesday demo win, while FBI proper copped the night's biggest audience.
FBI (with 6.6 million total viewers and a 0.4 rating) was up in viewers but down in the demo from its installment in last week's well-watched crossover. International (5.6 mil/0.4) and Most Wanted (4.9 mil/0.4) were both down in both measures.
9-1-1: Lone Star (3.3 mil/0.4) and Accused (1.9 mil/0.2) were both steady in the demo, with the latter posting its best audience in five episodes.
The CW's Superman & Lois (650K/0.1) and Gotham Knights (400K/0.1) both shed eyeballs, with the latter hitting a series low.
NBC's Night Court (2.7 mil/0.3) slipped to new series lows, and American Auto (1.5 mil/0.2) posted an audience low. The Wall's return (2/1 mil/0.3) was well shy of The Voice's latest numbers in the time slot, whereas Weakest Link (2 mil/0.3) was on par with That's My Jam.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Chopped (Food): 603k/0.10
- Switch (GSN): 482k/0.05
- Superchef Grudge Match (Food): 479k/0.09
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily
Deadline |
posted 4/12/2023 |
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Superfan FINALLY Gets a Drop Date
Catch It June 9
From NextTV |
CBS will premiere unscripted show Superfan, which sees six music-industry hotshots crown their biggest fan, Friday, June 9. Kelsea Ballerini, Gloria Estefan, Little Big Town, LL Cool J, Pitbull and Shania Twain are the music superstars. Keltie Knight and Nate Burleson host.
The show will see contestants try to prove they are the most devoted supporter of the musical superstar. LL Cool J will be in the premiere episode. Twain is on June 16. Estefan is on June 23, Little Big Town June 30, Pitbull July 7 and Ballerini July 14.
"Nate and Keltie will take you on a fun ride each week with a global music superstar in an exhilarating contest to crown the ultimate superfan, which audiences can play along with at home," Jack Sussman, executive VP of specials, music, live events and alternative programming for CBS, said.
"Viewers will also be treated to an exclusive medley of hits performed by these mega musicians, which will feel all the more special when performed for their most passionate fans."
Knight created the show with Jodi Roth. Knight is a correspondent on Entertainment Tonight.
NextTV
The Wrap
The Futon Critic |
posted 4/12/2023 |
 |

Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
SYNDIES: Week 28
Results for the Week Ending April 2
From TV Newscheck |
If syndication were sentient, people would tell it to make up its mind. As it is, syndication in the week ending April 2 — is a bit of a muddle.
According to the Nielsen National Syndication Service, Jeopardy continued to lead with a 5.3 household rating, up 2% from the prior week. It was followed by Wheel of Fortune (4.9, up 9%) and Family Feud (4.6, down 4%) which swapped places week to week. Most of the rest of the games remained steady.
In the household rating rankings that follow, % change is from the previous week; * indicates a new season-high rating; ** indicates a new season low; NC indicates no change from the previous week; NA mean not applicable.
GAME SHOWS:
-
Jeopardy (CMV) 5.3 +2%
-
Wheel of Fortune (CMV) 4.9 +9%
-
Family Feud (Debmar-Mercury/FMNA) 4.6 -4%
- 25 Words or Less (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- You Bet Your Life with Jay Leno (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- Pictionary (CMV): 0.4 -20%
-
Funny You Should Ask (Allen Media Group) 0.3 NC
TV Newscheck
Daytime Confidential
NextTV
Soap Opera Network
|
posted 4/12/2023 |
 |
Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Bears" |
- RuPaul gets the Build-a-Bear treatment (Build-a-Bear Workshop)
- KSI nominates himself for worst use of the Countdown set (MSN)
- Andy Cohen takes Howie Mandel to task over some guy on Vanderpump Rules (TV Insider)
- Chris Harrison calls Mike Fleiss a narcissist (Deadline)
|
posted 4/12/2023 |
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MONDAY: Surprise!
Idol Gives ABC the Win with a Surprise Top 26
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, ABC's American Idol led Monday in the demo, while CBS' NCIS copped the largest audience.
On a night hampered by the lowest Monday PUT (persons using TVs) levels since Feb. 20….
The Neighborhood (with 5 million total viewers and a 0.4 rating), Bob Loves Abishola (4.5 mil/0.4) and NCIS: Hawaii (4.9 mil/0.3) were all down in audience, with the former also dipping in the demo. NCIS (6.6 mil/0.4) however added a few eyeballs.
American Idol (4.2 mil/0.5) dropped some eyeballs week-to-week but was steady in the demo. The Good Doctor (3.4 mil/0.4) posted its first 0.4 rating since Dec. 5.
Fox's 9-1-1 (4.3 mil/0.4) slipped to what looks like series lows. Fantasy Island (1.6 mil/0.2), back from a five-week break, was down in audience but steady in the demo.
Monday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Rock the Block (SF/HGTV): 1.745m/0.17
- Spring Baking Championship (Food): 1.001m/0.15
- Switch
(GSN): 527k/0.06
- Master Minds (GSN): 488k/0.03
- Race to Survive Alaska (USA): 452k/0.15
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/11/2023 |
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Elan Gale Deals with ITV America
"FBoy Island" Creator to Develop New Projects
From Deadline |
Elan Gale, the creator of FBoy Island and a long-time Bachelor producer, is getting into business with ITV America.
Gale and his TheYearOfElan Productions banner has struck an overall unscripted deal with the Love Island producer. He will develop and produce unscripted series under the deal, particularly in the dating and relationship space.
Gale spent 10 years working on The Bachelor franchise, starting as a segment producer on Season 4 of The Bachelorette and leaving after Season 23 of The Bachelor in 2019.
Deadline |
posted 4/7/2023 |
 |
Surviving Bear Grylls
TBS to Launch "I Survived Bear Grylls" May 18
From the Futon Critic |
"I Survived Bear Grylls," TBS' new competition series that bridges the survival and game show genres, premieres on Thursday, May 18 at 9:00pm ET/PT. Hosted by celebrated survivalist Bear Grylls and comedian Jordan Conley, this series features eight stand-alone episodes, each with new players who face specially designed games taking Bear's most legendary adventures up a notch.
Bear Grylls has spent his entire career rescuing himself - and others - from death in some of the most dangerous parts of the world. Now, instead of sacrificing himself in the wild to teach survival skills, he's turning the tables to America's armchair adventurers by creating wilderness simulated challenges that will test the contestants' smarts, physicality and their ability to adapt and do whatever it takes to survive - including having to eat and drink some truly gnarly survival food.
The final contestant standing at the end of each episode can proudly claim I Survived Bear Grylls and win a cash prize.
This show gives rookie survivors the chance to prove their mettle at the hands of one of the world's leading adventurers. Along the way, a few lucky leading contestants will have a chance to earn the hard-fought reward of a seat on the larger-than-life MTN DEW-branded throne.
Bunim/Murray Productions, Kreativ Inc. and The Natural Studios produced the series for TBS. MTN DEW is an integration and promotional partner.
The Futon Critic
TV Insider |
posted 4/7/2023 |
 |
FRIDAY: Good for CBS, Fox
Networks Split Holiday Weekend
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, Fox's SmackDown dominated Friday in the demo, while CBS' Blue Bloods and Fire Country easily drew the night's largest crowds.
SWAT (with 4.9 million total viewers and a 0.4 rating), Fire Country Guest-Starring Country Music Superstar Kane Brown (5.8 mil/0.4) and Blue Bloods (5.9 mil/0.3) were all steady in the demo, with Fire Country improving 14% on last week's second-smallest audience and Blue Bloods rebounding 11% from a series low audience.
Friday Night SmackDown (2.3 mil/0.6) was down a tick from last week's pre-WrestleMania outing.
NBC's Tuesday-bound Lopez vs. Lopez (1.8 mil/0.3) was steady, as was Grand Crew (1.1 mil/0.2).
ABC's Shark Tank (3.6 mil/0.4) was steady.
The CW's Penn & Teller: Fool Us (610K/0.1) added viewers, whereas Whose Line (450K/0.1) and The Great American Joke Off (290K/0.0) dropped eyeballs.
Friday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- RuPaul's Drag Race (MTV): 415k/0.15
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/10/2023 |
 |
Monday Lightning Round
... or "Evicted from Valerie's Home" |
- Valerie Bertinelli's Food Network series cancelled, she doesn't know why. Five words: "Death by Warner Bros. Discovery" (Deadline)
- James Corden's the most difficult & obnoxious presenter Craig Duncan has ever worked with (The Wrap)
- Would you watch Survivor for 90 minutes? (Inside Survivor)
- Blake Shelton roasted on "The Voice" (Entertainment Weekly)
- Generation Gap to shoot in New York for season 2 (Good Housekeeping)
- Betty White's house demolished (Deadline)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Brian Henegar (TV Insider)
|
posted 4/10/2023 |
 |
Naked and Afraid...for Money
Discovery Spins Off Franchise for Reality Competition
From NextTV |
Twelve of Naked and Afraid's toughest and most experienced all-stars take on South Africa's punishing Oribi Gorge in a completely new type of challenge. For the first time ever, survivalists will compete head-to-head through a grueling, multiphase challenge and have their primitive skills tested for the chance to win $100,000. The competition is fierce, as survivalists can use any means necessary - even sabotage - to take home the grand prize. At the end of 45 days, only one can be crowned the Last One Standing.
NAKED AND AFRAID: LAST ONE STANDING premieres Sunday, May 7 at 8:00PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel.
During Phase One of the challenge, survivalists enter in pairs and must make it through 21 days together. In a huge twist, if a competitor chooses to tap, their partner is also automatically eliminated. Together, they must hunt for food, water, fire, shelter and - in a franchise first - earn the tools needed to survive. In Phase Two, the remaining survivalists enter a group challenge to compete both with and against their teammates. With the final phase comes an unprecedented, everyone-out-for-themselves fight to the finish with a grueling 3-day journey to extraction. The winner claims the $100,000 cash prize and earns Naked and Afraid's first ever perfect 10 Primitive Survival Rating.
NAKED AND AFRAID: LAST ONE STANDING includes some of the franchise's most skilled survivalists, including Matt Wright, a top marksman who has completed 215 days on Naked and Afraid, more than any other participant in this challenge; Jeff Zausch, a cutthroat competitor with elite fishing skills and an unmatched self-determination to succeed at all costs; Cheeny Plante, one of the newest survivalists in the Naked and Afraid family who has quickly made a name for herself using skills molded through years of military survival training and as a SERE specialist; Dan Link, one of only two survivalists to leap from completing a 14-day fan challenge to finishing the 60-day legends challenge; Waz Addy, a former pro-rugby player and military veteran who excels in spearfishing, scuba diving and open ocean swimming; Amber Hargrove, a decorated army veteran who is the only woman competing to be Last One Standing who has completed a 60-day challenge; Steven Lee Hall, Jr. who calls himself "King of the Forest," and has completed all six of his Naked and Afraid challenges; and Sarah Bartell, an off-grid homesteader and taxidermist who has completed all three of her previous challenges.
The Futon Critic |
posted 4/7/2023 |
 |
THURSDAY: Doink Doink
NBC Wins Night... Barely
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with CBS (and, well, The CW) in rerun mode: NBC's Law & Order: SVU led Thursday both in the demo and in total viewers.
Law & Order (with 4.3 million total viewers and a 0.4 demo rating), SVU (4.4 mil/0.5) and Organized Crime (3.2 mil/0.4) each added eyeballs and held steady in the demo.
ABC's Station 19 (3.6 mil/0.4) and Grey's Anatomy (3.2 mil/0.4) both dipped, while Diane Sawyer's sitdown with Jeremy Renner (3.4 mil/0.3) drew the time slot's best audience since Alaska Daily's series opener (and matched the freshman "bubble" show's highest demo rating).
Fox's Next Level Chef (1.9 mil/0.4) and Animal Control (1.2 mil/0.3) were both steady, while Call Me Kat (1.2 mil/0.3) ticked up in both measures and posted only its fourth 0.3 rating of the season-to-date.
Thursday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Top Chef World All-Stars (Bravo): 523k/0.13
- Switch (GSN): 493k/0.05
- Battlebots (Discovery): 483k/0.06
- Master Minds (GSN): 474k/0.03
- Ex on the Beach (MTV): 76k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/7/2023 |
 |
Daytime Emmys: June 16
CBS Signs Two-Year Deal to Air on Network, Streaming
From NextTV |
The 50th Annual Daytime Emmys will be broadcast live on Friday, June 16 on CBS and be available to stream live and on-demand on Paramount Plus, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) said Thursday.
NATAS and CBS have signed a two-year deal for CBS to broadcast the show, with the 51st edition slated to air on CBS in 2024.
This year's ceremony will take place at the Westin Bonaventure in downtown Los Angeles.
"We are thrilled to be back with our incredible broadcast partner CBS for two years," Adam Sharp, president and CEO of NATAS, said in a statement. "In commemorating the show's golden anniversary this year, we look forward to honoring and celebrating the beloved world of daytime television."
"CBS has a storied history in daytime and we are delighted to continue having the Daytime Emmys on the Network for the next two years," Mackenzie Mitchell, VP of specials, music and live events at CBS, said, also in a statement.
NextTV
The Futon Critic
The Hollywood Reporter |
posted 4/6/2023 |
 |
WEDNESDAY: Three-Way Split
NBC, Fox, CBS Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' Survivor and Fox's The Masked Singer tied for the Wednesday demo win, while NBC's Chicago Fire copped the night's largest audience.
Survivor (with 5 million total viewers and a 0.6 rating) was down week-to-week — as were many Wednesday programs, with cable news still enjoying a post-Trump arrest viewership spike. True Lies (2.2 mil/0.2) dipped to a new viewership low but held steady in the demo.
Chicago Med (6.2 mil/0.4), Fire (6.6 mil/0.5) and P.D. (4.9 mil/0.4) were each down a tenth or two.
The Masked Singer (3.6 mil/0.6) dipped while Farmer Wants a Wife (2 mil/0.3) was steady.
The CW's The Flash (530K/0.1) and Riverdale (280K/0.1) both gained viewers.
ABC's The Conners (3.5 mil/0.5), Not Dead Yet (2.1 mil/0.3) and A Million Little Things (1.7 mil/0.2) were all steady, whereas The Goldbergs (2.2 mil/0.3) and Abbott (2.7 mil/0.4) dipped.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Guy's Grocery Games (Food): 690k/0.15
- Master Minds (GSN): 564k/0.03
- Switch (GSN): 498k/0.05
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 4/6/2023 |
 |

Fox
Fox Lines Up Summer
"MasterChef", "Beat Shazam", "Crime Scene Kitchen" Returning
From NextTV |
Fox has shared its summer programming plans, including the premieres of Beat Shazam May 23 and Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars and MasterChef May 24.
The season begins with Crime Scene Kitchen, hosted by Joel McHale, Monday, May 22. Fox calls the show "a culinary guessing game in which bakers are tasked with decoding what type of dessert was made, when all that's left are the crumbs, flour trails and a few elusive clues." A two-hour premiere kicks off season two.
Beat Shazam, hosted by Jamie Foxx with his daughter, Corinne Foxx, the co-host, starts May 23. The game show sees a team attempt to identify hit songs before the other team does. It will be season six.
Following Beat Shazam is another musical game show, as Don't Forget the Lyrics debuts. Niecy Nash hosts and contestants sing along with the band, hoping to get the lyrics correct. It will be season two.
MasterChef: United Tastes of America starts season 13 May 24. Gordon Ramsay, chef Aaron Sanchez and restaurateur Joe Bastianich taste the cooks' creations.
Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars premieres after MasterChef. Food and drink entrepreneurs go through a batch of challenges designed to showcase their business skills and convince Ramsay he should invest in them.
NextTV
TV Line |
posted 4/5/2023 |
 |
TUESDAY: FBI Crossover Scores
CBS Wins Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with cable news networks seeing spikes in the wake of Donald Trump's arrest: Two-thirds of CBS' #TheFBIs crossover event led Tuesday in the demo, while the FBI hour delivered the night's biggest audience.
Opening the 3-way crossover event, and in an earlier-than-usual time slot, FBI: International drew its largest audience ever (6.3 million total viewers, 14% above its season average) and a 0.5 demo rating. FBI followed with 6.4 mil and a 0.5. Closing out the event, FBI: Most Wanted copped its best audience since Dec. 14 (5.9 mil) along with a 0.4 rating. All told, CBS enjoyed its most watched Tuesday of the season.
FOX's 9-1-1: Lone Star (3.2 mil/0.4) hit and tied at least season lows, while Accused (1.7 mil/0.2) was steady.
The CW's Superman & Lois (720K/0.1) drew a best-since-season premiere audience, while Gotham Knights (470K/0.1) was steady.
NBC's Night Court (3.2 mil/0.4) and American Auto (1.9 mil/0.2) were steady, while The Voice (4.2 mil/0.4) and That's My Jam (2.2 mil/0.3) were down.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Chopped (Food): 658k/0.11
- Superchef Grudge Match (Food): 541k/0.12
- Switch (GSN): 438k/0.03
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily
Deadline |
posted 4/5/2023 |
 |

Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
SYNDIES: Week 27
Results for the Week Ending March 26
From TV Newscheck |
The week ending March 26 was inconclusive for syndication with almost as many shows going up as going down according to the Nielsen Syndication Service national ratings.
Jeopardy not only led the game shows but also all of syndication with a 5.2 rating, up 2% from the prior week. Family Feud rose 4% to 4.8, while Wheel of Fortune was unchanged at 4.5.
In the household rating rankings that follow, % change is from the previous week; * indicates a new season-high rating; ** indicates a new season low; NC indicates no change from the previous week; NA mean not applicable.
GAME SHOWS:
-
Jeopardy (CMV) 5.2 +2%
-
Family Feud (Debmar-Mercury/FMNA) 4.8 +4%
-
Wheel of Fortune (CMV) 4.5 NC
- 25 Words or Less (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- You Bet Your Life with Jay Leno (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- Pictionary (CMV): 0.5 +25%
-
Funny You Should Ask (Allen Media Group) 0.3 NC
TV Newscheck
Daytime Confidential
NextTV
Soap Opera Network
|
posted 4/5/2023 |
 |
MGM Watches a Variety Game Format
Amazon Studios, Media Ranch Reach Deal
From Deadline |
MGM Alternative is taking variety-meets-gameshow format Watch! into the U.S.
The agreement with Canada's Media Ranch is one of the first the division has struck since Amazon-owned MGM restructured its programs team under Amazon Studios boss Jennifer Salke.
The format sees two teams competing by answering questions based on live onstage performances.
It first debuted on German network ProSieben in July 2020, where it was hosted by Germany's Got Talent and The Masked Singer Germany's Ruth Moschner and known as Wer Sight Das Den?!.
Deadline |
posted 4/4/2023 |
 |
Watch Out for the Renewal!
Lizzo, Amazon Extend First-Look Deal
From the Hollywood Reporter |
It's about damn time… for Lizzo to extend a first-look deal she has with Amazon Studios.
The Grammy and Emmy winner will continue to develop programming for the tech giant's studio arm under the deal, which she first signed in August 2020. The extension comes after Lizzo's Watch Out for the Big Grrrls won three Emmys in 2022, including outstanding competition program — becoming the first streaming series to earn a victory in that category. The show's second season is currently casting.
"I'm thrilled to continue this partnership with the Amazon team after an incredible experience on season one of Watch Out for the Big Grrrls," said Lizzo in a statement. "I've witnessed lives change through this show and I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue making space for even more Big Grrrls around the world to shine and break down barriers across this industry."
Added Vernon Sanders, head of television for Amazon and MGM Studios, "Lizzo is one of the most exciting, creative, joyful artists in the industry, and the impact of her Emmy award-winning series Lizzo's Watch Out for the Big Grrrls exceeded our every expectation. We are excited to continue our relationship with Lizzo and can't wait for our global Prime Video audience to experience what's next."
The Hollywood Reporter
The Wrap
Variety
Deadline |
posted 4/3/2023 |
 |

Sony Pictures TV Studios/Game Show Network
UPFRONTS: Game Show Network
"Master Minds", "Switch" Renewed; Four Shows Greenlit
From the Futon Critic |
Game Show Network and Sony Pictures Television (SPT) announced offerings for the 2023 Upfronts will continue to include options in live viewing, integrations, and syndicated programming.
Delivering one of the top levels of live viewing and commercial retention in the industry, opportunities exist with Game Show Network's successful original programming slate and branded entertainment opportunities in America's most successful and long running game shows:
A top 20 cable network Game Show Network remains a prolific producer of content, with over 275 hours of shows in 2023 (26% over the previous year), as a result of its commitment to delivering high quality original programming and the consistency of a stripped schedule. Game Show Network has greenlit four new strip series, SPLIT SECOND, based on the format from game show legend Monty Hall, to be hosted by Emmy(R)-Nominated Game Show Host John Michael Higgins ("America Says", "Pitch Perfect"), in his second series for the network, the comedic game show format BLANK SLATE, to be hosted by Mario Lopez ("Access Hollywood"), RIDDICULOUS (working title) based on the popular UK game of riddles, along with recently announced HEY YAHOO!, hosted by actor Tom Cavanagh ("Ed", "The Flash"), which is based on the most popular searches from the powerful search engine, Yahoo.
Rounding out the schedule are the recently premiered fan favorites the all-star trivia show MASTER MINDS (January 2023)hosted by Emmy(R)-nominated game show host Brooke Burns and featuring a panel of Master Mind trivia experts who compete against the contestants, which enters its fifth season as the show improved its time period by +33% (W25-54) and SWITCH (January 2023), a quick-moving trivia show where contestants take positions behind large numbers from 1 to 5, hosted by actor Jeff Hephner ("Chicago Med", "Chicago Fire") will be back for its second season as it improved its time period by 20% (P2+).
"Game Show Network continues to deliver live viewing levels that rival both sports and news," said Stuart Zimmerman, Executive Vice President, Ad Sales for Sony Pictures Television (SPT) and GSN. "The benefit to our advertisers is that game shows as a genre have over a 90% completion retention when viewing commercials, and Game Show Network is the destination for viewers. There's no breaking news or split screens to disrupt this experience. Clients expect a safe harbor in a trusted environment and Game Show Network delivers."
Game Show Network debuts four new series this year: SPLIT SECOND, premiering in April, HEY YAHOO!, premiering in June, and RIDDICULOUS (working title) and BLANK SLATE premiering in the fall.
Based on a format from game show legend Monty Hall, SPLIT SECOND asks three contestants to decide in a split second which of three general interest trivia questions they can answer. The first player to buzz in gets the first pick, and the last player is left to answer whatever is left, which is often the most difficult. The player with the fastest response time and the highest success rate answering questions over the first three rounds advance to the bonus game where their ability to answer a rapid-fire series of questions could win them $10,000.
SPLIT SECOND is produced by Game Show Enterprises Studios with Michael Binkow as executive producer. Nancy Glass, Marcus Lemonis, and Sharon Hall also serve as executive producers for Marcus/Glass Productions. John Michael Higgins serves as host and executive producer.
In HEY YAHOO!, two teams of three players each compete to guess what millions of people are searching for on Yahoo Search. Contestants are given the first half of a search, and then have to fill-in-the-blank based on what they think America is searching for. For each correct answer, the dollar value of that answer is added to the team's bank. At the end of three rounds of play, the team with the most money wins and will go on to the bonus round for a chance to add an extra $10,000 to their winnings.
HEY YAHOO! is produced by Game Show Enterprises Studios for Game Show Network with Rane Laymance serving as executive producer and Brian Provost as executive producer for Yahoo. Al Hassas of Sweet Lemons, LLC and Dean Tempest of Big Potato Limited also serve as executive producers.
Based on the hit UK game of riddles format created by East Media, RIDDICULOUS (working title) is a new game show where three teams of two compete to answer trivia questions as the gateway to solving riddles and puzzles for big money. Presented with questions sharing a common theme (e.g., every answer begins with Y, or is a popular food), the first team to answer three correctly goes head-to-head with the Riddle Master, a devious and mischievous expert who dishes out clever riddles and visual puzzles. The team with the most money in their bank at the end of Round 3 moves on to face the Riddle Master's Riddiculous Riddle Run bonus round. If the team solves seven riddles in 60 seconds, they walk away with $10,000!
RIDDICULOUS (working title) is a Game Show Enterprises Studios production. Nathan Eastwood and Sunil Patel also serve as Executive Producers for East Media. East Media is part of The Whisper Group.
Based on the board game by USAopoly and in the comedic game show format, BLANK SLATE is a fun and funny game show where thinking alike, in the form of matching answers to clever fill-in-the blank questions, can win you big bucks. Each team of two friends will be paired with a comedian guest, and the teams accumulate points by matching their teammates, with a bonus if any player matches America's top answer. The celebrities switch teams in round two, and in round three the trailing team picks the comedian partner they believe will help them win. The winning team moves on to the bonus round where they can pick a comedian to match on each question. If the team gets three matches, they walk away with $10,000!
BLANK SLATE is a Game Show Enterprises Studios production with Rane Laymance serving as executive producer. Richard Gerrits and Laura Robinson also serve as Executive Producers for Heath Street Media Inc.
The Futon Critic
NextTV
Adweek
Mediapost
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
PopCulture |
posted 4/3/2023 |
 |
Roman Kemp Heads to the Finish Line
BBC Greenlights New Series
From Digital Spy |
I'm a Celeb's Roman Kemp has been announced as the host for the new BBC show The Finish Line.
The Celebrity Gogglebox star will be teaming up with former Blue Peter and Dancing on Ice star Sarah Greene for the new reality format that combines traditional quizzes with a high-stakes race.
In The Finish Line, contestants answer quiz questions in order to advance around a horse-racing map — and the first one to reach the finish line of the map wins.
"I'm so excited to be hosting The Finish Line, coming to BBC One later this year. I'm a huge fan of quiz shows, and with this being my first time hosting one, I really can't wait to get stuck in," Roman said.
"I love that it's a brand-new format but based on an iconic horse-racing fairground game. The show is set to be challenging and unpredictable; we know that viewers will be hooked!"
His co-host Sarah added: "This will be fantastic fun and so I am really looking forward to working with Roman on this new format. It's all about high-energy, high-drama racing and quickfire questions, and I'll be bringing my A-game to ensure that Roman and the contestants are kept on the straight and narrow."
Digital Spy
Joe
Metro
Mediapost
BBC Media Centre
Deadline
Beccles & Burgey Journal |
posted 4/3/2023 |
 |
Claire Byrne Searching for "Ireland's Smartest"
RTE Announces Quiz Show
From Joe |
Amid the speculation of who will host The Late Late Show when Ryan Tubridy leaves, Claire Byrne has been announced as host for a new RTÉ One quiz series, Ireland's Smartest, from early April.
According to RTÉ, the quiz show is set to "put Ireland's most intelligent quizzers through their paces."
"The producers trawled the length and breadth of Ireland to find contestants with the depth of knowledge worthy of the ultimate accolade... Ireland's Smartest."
Joe
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
Newsbreak
Virgin Radio
Metro
C21 Media
Telly Mix
UPI
Daytime Confidential
Televisual
Belfast Telegraph
British Comedy Guide
The Neighbor
Female First
London Evening STandard
Digital Spy
Uproxx
The Blast
What to Watch
TV Tonight
TV Blackbox
The Irish Mirror |
posted 4/3/2023 |
 |

Los Angeles Times
Mike Fleiss Turns In His Roses (UPDATED)
"Bachelor" Creator Exits After 21 Years
From Deadline |
The Bachelor creator/executive producer Mike Fleiss' recently announced departure from the hit ABC reality franchise came after he had been investigated over workplace misconduct allegations, Deadline has reported.
According to sources, The Bachelor producer Warner Bros. TV, working with ABC, recently completed the investigation into claims of alleged racist behavior as well as verbal and emotional abuse against Fleiss.
After a conversation with Warner Bros. over the results from the investigation, he opted to leave; Fleiss was not formally fired, sources said. Through a rep, he declined comment regarding any investigation. He also released a statement:
I had no idea back in 2002 that we were building a pop culture juggernaut. It was a crazy idea then and sure as hell continues to roll– just look at every network and streamer that has ripped us off! Since its premiere 21 years ago, times have certainly changed and I'd have to say we didn't keep up with the pace of those changes. I am proud of the work we've done over the past five years to make the show substantially more diverse, but I do believe I could have done more. Hopefully, the franchise will continue to move in the right direction. Judging by the number of staff weddings we've hosted at our home and the number of teary messages that blew up my phone when I announced I had turned in my final rose, I'm pretty sure I had more good days than bad, lifted more spirits than hurt feelings and leave the franchise in good hands, with more friends than foe.
This is the second known time Warner Bros. had launched a probe into Fleiss' behavior; in 2019, the studio said that they were "looking into" the "serious allegations" raised by his then-pregnant wife who accused him of attacking her.
Season 27, which just ended Monday night, is his final season with the franchise. Claire Freeland, Jason Ehrlich, and longtime executive producer Bennett Graebner will be taking over as executive producers and showrunners for the franchise.
Fleiss created The Bachelor, which debuted in 2002 led by 31-year-old Alex Michel, a Harvard-educated management consultant from Charlottesville, VA. Fleiss is also the creative force behind The Bachelorette, which followed a year later with 29-year-old Trista Rehn as the leading lady. He's also been an executive producer on all of the other Bachelor franchise series including Bachelor Pad, Bachelor in Paradise and Bachelor: Winter Games.
While he's remained associated with the franchise, Fleiss hasn't been involved in the day-to-day operations of each series in about a decade.
Outside of The Bachelor, Fleiss has been involved in reality series including Who Wants To Marry A Multi-Millionaire and High School Reunion as well as horror films including The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning and the Hostel franchise.
Deadline
TV Line
The Wrap
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
Entertainment Weekly
TV Insider
Deadline
TV Line
Deadline
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider |
posted 3/31/2023 |
 |

ITV/MGM Television
More on "Gladiators UK"
Logo for Reboot Revealed
From BBC Media Centre |
Contenders, ready! Gladiators, ready! One of the most exciting and iconic sports entertainment gameshows ever, Gladiators will be returning to TV in its brand new home on the BBC and viewers can be part of the action by applying for free tickets to witness the new generation of Gladiators in action.
This 11-part series made by Hungry Bear Media and MGM Television UK will be back with a brand new generation of superhuman Gladiators who will compete against a brave set of contenders in the ultimate test of speed and strength. They will take part in a series of brand new games alongside classic challenges including fan-favorite The Eliminator.
Filming will take place in and around the spring school holidays at the Utilita Arena, Sheffield and audiences can be the first to experience the power in this spectacular family day out.
Dan Baldwin, Managing Director Hungry Bear said "Watching Gladiators LIVE in the arena is the perfect day out for all the family. Being close-up to the action is going to be an incredible experience like no other. Plus, we're making the tickets free, so it won't cost you a penny to get in!"
To apply for free tickets and to view the terms and conditions head to - https://www.applausestore.com/book-gladiators-2023
Further details about Gladiators including broadcast details will be announced in due course.
Gladiators (11 x 60') is a Hungry Bear and MGM Television UK production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer and was commissioned by Kate Phillips in her capacity as Director of Entertainment. The Executive Producers are Dan Baldwin and Lou Brown for Hungry Bear and Dom Bird for MGM Television. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Saul Fearnley.
BBC Media Centre
The Star
Entertainment Focus
Metro
Yorkshire Live
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posted 3/31/2023 |
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ITV/MGM Television
BERNADETTE HUNT: 1964-2023
UK Gladiator "Falcon"
From Sky News |
Bernadette Hunt, who starred as Falcon in the hit 90s competitive sports combat game show Gladiators, has died aged 59.
The news was shared by her brother-in-law, Rick Jango, on a Facebook page celebrating showbiz from days gone by.
He wrote: "It is with great sadness that I have to tell you of my partner's younger sister Bernadette Hunt. Most people will remember her as Falcon From the hit TV Show Gladiators.
"I had the privilege to be in her company a few times and I have to say she was one of the most loveliest people I have ever met.
"She never had a bad word to say about anyone, indeed she was always known as the nicest Gladiator, always stopping to speak and sign autographs for anyone.
"She had been battling cancer for a number of years until sadly she lost her fight. R.I.P. Bernie."
Hunt's sister, Carol, also commented, writing: "My beautiful sister was the best kind of human being on this earth."
Suzanne Cox, who was Gladiator Vogue, wrote: "I found out a few days ago."
A statement on the Gladiators website said Hunt was "the most lovely, warm, generous person with a beaming smile", adding: "Our Gladiator family is truly heartbroken with our loss of Bernie."
The statement said she was the second longest-serving female Gladiator.
The site goes on to describe her warmth as a competitor, saying: "Win or lose Falcon is always there to congratulate [her contenders]".
Starring in series two to eight of Gladiators, Hunt had also performed in Gladiators live shows in Wembley and Sheffield.
Since working on Gladiators, she had left the world of TV and became a personal trainer, holding classes at Basingstoke Sports Centre.
Hunt leaves behind two children, her husband Mark, son Adam, and young daughter Angel.
Sky News
RTE
ATV Today |
posted 3/31/2023 |
 |

Entertainment Weekly
PAUL O'GRADY: 1955-2023
Comedian, Drag Queen "Lily Savage" Hosted "Blankety Blanks", "Blind Date"
From Entertainment Weekly |
Blankety Blank is returning to BBC One for one night only this weekend, following the death of Paul O'Grady.
The TV host, comedian and drag icon (who fronted the gameshow as drag queen Lily Savage) sadly passed away at his home on Tuesday (March 28) at the age of 67.
The BBC is changing its schedules tomorrow night (April 1), with a classic episode of Lily Savage's Blankety Blank airing in tribute to O'Grady and his groundbreaking drag alter ego at 7pm.
The performer died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday, O'Grady's husband, André Portasio, told the Associated Press.
Before becoming a regional TV staple for his work hosting The Paul O'Grady Show and appearing on Blind Date and Blankety Blank, O'Grady began his career as a nightlife entertainer at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern, an iconic LGBTQIA+ venue in London where he regularly championed queer rights — particularly at the height of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s.
He also honed his drag persona, Lily Savage, at the time, and, in 1997, hosted The Lily Savage Show on the BBC, even welcoming Elton John as a special guest on one episode.
Waves of tributes poured in on social media following O'Grady's death, including a message from the Royal Family's Twitter account.
"Deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paul O'Grady, who worked closely with Her Majesty in support of @Battersea_, providing lots of laughter and many waggy-tailed memories," the Royal Family tweeted alongside a photo of O'Grady and Camilla, the queen consort, who made an appearance on the entertainer's For the Love of Dogs in 2022.
A Star Is Born actor and RuPaul's Drag Race season 4 queen Willam also paid tribute to O'Grady, remembering the actor in a sweet Instagram post.
"I'm sure she's up there giving everyone an earful in heaven for us queens down here. Tell them to fix America, please, girl. We need it," Willam wrote on Instagram. "We love you, Ms. Savage. TYSM for all the good you did. I tip my wig to you."
Before he died, O'Grady portrayed Miss Hannigan in the West End revival of Annie, and later joined the production's regional tour. The show released a statement Wednesday morning.
"Everyone at Annie the Musical is stunned and saddened by the passing of Paul O'Grady," the statement read. "An incredible Miss Hannigan and an irreplaceable, hilarious, and generous person who we will all miss immensely."
Entertainment Weekly
The Guardian
BBC News
ITV News
BBC News
Los Angeles Times
Sky News
ABC (Australia) News
WDRB Louisville
Extra.ie
Channel 4 News
Radio Times
Joe
Proper Manchester
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
CNN
The Nation
Digital Spy
Evening Standard
Virgin Radio UK |
posted 3/30/2023 |
 |
THURSDAY: CBS Haunts the Night
Eye Wins the Night on Both Fronts
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' Young Sheldon and Ghosts tied NBC's SVU for the Thursday demo win, while Sheldon also copped the night's biggest audience.
Young Sheldon (with 6.9 million total viewers and a 0.5 demo rating) and Ghosts (6.2 mil/0.5) were both down, while So Help Me Todd (4.2 mil/0.3) and that emotionally charged CSI: Vegas (3.2 mil/0.3) were both steady.
ABC's Station 19 (3.7 mil/0.4) dipped, while Grey's Anatomy (3.6 mil/0.4) and "bubble" drama Alaska Daily's season finale (2.7 mil and its seventh consecutive 0.2) were steady. Season to date, Alaska Daily is averaging 5.4 million total viewers and a 0.4 demo rating (with Live+7 playback); out of the 10 dramas ABC has aired this TV season, it ranks No. 6 in audience but ties fellow freshman The Company You Keep for last in the demo.
Law & Order (4.1 mil/0.4), SVU (4.2 mi/0.5) and Organized Crime (2.8 mil/0.4) each dropped some eyeballs but were steady in the demo.
The CW's Walker (620K/0.1) matched its audience low.
Fox's Next Level Chef (1.8 mil/0.3) matched series lows, Animal Control (1.2 mil/0.3) was steady and Call Me Kat (1.1 mil/0.2) dipped.
Thursday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Top Chef World All-Stars (Bravo): 523k/0.13
- Switch (GSN): 493k/0.05
- People Puzzler (GSN): 490k/0.04
- Battlebots (Discovery): 483k/0.06
- Master Minds (GSN): 474k/0.03
- Ex on the Beach (MTV): 76k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/30/2023 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Drag Space... and Time" |
- Jinkx Monsoon to join the cast of "Doctor Who" (Deadline)
- James Corden's "Late Late Show" to end with three karaokes and a Kardashian (Variety)
- Reason to love Rachel Riley #92: she admits to having a ribald sense of humor (Birmingham Live)
- BRUTALLY HONEST REVIEW: Race to Survive Alaska (USA) (Reality Blurred)
- Irina Solomonova FINALLY apologizes for her behavior... sort of (Entertainment Weekly)
- #ICYMI: a season of firsts continues on "American Idol" (Deadline)
- PROGRAMMING NOTE: Let's Make a Deal Primetime on hold... again (The Futon Critic)
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posted 4/3/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
JeoparDAY! Is Here!
First Alex Trebek Episode to Air on YouTube
From Parade |
Longtime Jeopardy! fans who are still feeling the loss of the late, great Alex Trebek have a reason to celebrate today, as the show announced that it will air the former host's first-ever episode on the show's YouTube channel for free.
The official Jeopardy! Twitter account announced the amazing news, writing, "The year is 1984 Alex Trebek's first EVER Jeopardy! episode premieres tomorrow at 6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET on YouTube in honor of JeoparDAY!"
The message also encouraged fans to subscribe to the Jeopardy! YouTube channel ahead of the episode's release.
JeoparDAY is an annual tradition that started last year to celebrate the show on March 30, in honor of March 30, 1964, the day the first episode of the original show aired.
As a gift to fans, last year on March 30, Jeopardy! also announced the Anytime Test, allowing those trying to compete on the show an extra chance to take the entrance test. For every test, up to 10,000, the show will donate $5.90 to the Alex Trebek Fund to benefit Stand Up 2 Cancer.
Today also brought a special announcement via the show's official podcast - a "Champions' Wildcard" Tournament will be instituted as part of this fall's postseason play, in between Second Chance (whose return was confirmed today) and the Tournament of Champions. Every single player who wins a game in Season 39 will be invited to the event (if they haven't qualified for the Tournament of Champions).
Parade
The Sun
New York Post
Deseret News
The Jeopardy! Fan
The Blast
Decider
|
posted 3/30/2023 |
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Ninja Warrior Renewed to 2024
Season 15 Premieres This Summer Along with...
From Deadline |
American Ninja Warrior will be back on NBC for a while.
The competition format, which is produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions, returns this June for season 15 and has already been picked up for season 16. Hosts Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila, along with co-host Zuri Hall, are back to call the action as the ninjas make their way through the qualifying and semifinal rounds in Los Angeles before moving to the national finals in Las Vegas.
There are a number of new additions to the seasons including a Mega Wall with ninjas also racing side-by-side and head-to-head for the first time, marking the biggest changes to the show in its history.
Production is currently underway on both seasons, with A. Smith & Co. filming the seasons back-to-back with select ninjas featured in both seasons. Season 15 will premiere on June 5 and season 16 returns in 2024. It marks a major statement of intent from NBCU unscripted chief Corie Henson, who joined last summer.
A top prize of $1 million will go to the winner who can conquer all four stages at the national finals in Las Vegas.
Meanwhile, NBC has announced its upcoming 2023 summer schedule, featuring returning shows and series premieres alike.
The network's summer season will start with the premieres of America's Got Talent's 18th season and the series premiere of the Rutledge Wood-hosted Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge on Tuesday, May 30, followed by the debut of American Ninja Warrior Season 15 on Monday, June 5.
All shows will be available for streaming on Peacock the day after their NBC broadcast.
As the network gears up for the season, it will kick off its pre-summer lineup with the return of The Weakest Link, hosted by Jane Lynch, on Tuesday, April 11, at 10/9c. Following that, That's My Jam will debut on its new timeslot on Mondays at 10/9c, starting April 17..
Deadline
TV Insider
Deadline
TV Line
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/30/2023 |
 |
WEDNESDAY: Fire... Meet Water.
NBC, CBS Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' Survivor led Wednesday in the demo, while NBC's Chicago Fire cooked up the night's biggest audience.
Survivor (with 5 million total viewers and a 0.7 demo rating) was steady, as was True Lies (2.5 mil/0.2, leading out of an FBI rerun).
Chicago Med (6.4 mil/0.5), Fire (6.7 mil/0.5) and P.D. (5.1 mil/0.5) were all steady.
The CW's The Flash (470K/0.1) slipped to an audience low, but coming up next is one of Grant Gustin's favorite episodes of the season. Riverdale's final season premiere (260K/0.1) was up in viewers from the average from Season 6 (which aired largely in the summer). If you wanna get math-y, Riverdale matched its second-best audience since 6×05.
Fox's The Masked Singer (3.7 mil/0.6) ticked up, while Farmer Wants a Wife (2.1 mil/0.2) was steady.
ABC's A Million Little Things (1.8 mil/0.2) was steady.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Guy's Grocery Games (Food): 690k/0.15
- Master Minds (GSN): 564k/0.03
- People Puzzler (GSN): 500k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 498k/0.05
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/30/2023 |
 |
Dancing on My Own
NBC Cancels "Dancing with Myself" After One Season
From Deadline |
NBC will no longer be Dancing with Myself.
The network has canceled the dancing competition, which starred Nick Jonas, Liza Koshy and Shakira, after one season.
The decision, which was made a few months ago, comes after the show, which was hosted by Camille Kostek, premiered last May and ran for eight episodes.
The news emerged after NBC set its summer lineup with the return of America's Got Talent and the launch of car competition makeover series Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge on May 30, the launch of season 15 of American Ninja Warrior on June 5 and the debut of Dick Wolf docuseries LA Fire & Rescue, which was ordered in 2021, on June 21.
Deadline |
posted 3/30/2023 |
 |
Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Bam!" |
- Bam Margera arrested after an episode at a restaurant (TMZ)
- Joshua Tylerbest charged with 15 counts of ewwwwww.... (Access Hollywood)
- Food Network to try "Fast Foodies" out (The Futon Critic)
- Lionel Richie admits to writing a song on the .. ewwwww! (Entertainment Weekly)
- BBC accused of rigging "University Challenge" for Oxbridge (MSN)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with "Drag Race" creator Fenton Bailey (The Wrap)
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posted 3/30/2023 |
 |
 
File photos
Julianne Hough Returns Home
"Dancing with the Stars" Alum to Co-Host with Alfonso Ribeiro
From TV Insider |
Dancing With the Stars judge and long-time pro dancer Julianne Hough will now return to the competition series as co-host with Alfonso Ribeiro in Season 32, replacing Tyra Banks.
Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough are confirmed as judges on the next season of the Disney+ show, marking a Dancing With the Stars reunion for the Hough siblings, who together have won more seasons of the series than any other pro. Season 32 also marks the first without Len Goodman, who announced his retirement in the Season 31 finale.
Banks,who announced her exit on Thursday, March 16, joined Dancing With the Stars as host while it was still on ABC in 2020, replacing Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews. She stayed as host through its final seasons on ABC, making the switch to Disney+ in 2022 where she was joined by new co-host Ribeiro.
Banks opened up about her departure from the competition series to TMZ. "I feel it's really time for me to focus on my business and my entrepreneurship, and also producing more TV — but behind the scenes," she said. "I think it's time to graduate from the dance floor to the stock market floor… from the ballroom to the boardroom."
Hough first appeared on Dancing With the Stars Season 4 as a professional dancer in 2007, winning the season with amateur partner Apolo Ohno. At the time, she was the youngest professional dancer to win the mirrorball trophy. She won again in Season 5 with partner Hélio Castroneves. Hough remained in the professional cast through Season 8, and then left to pursue other career opportunities.
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
The Wrap
TV Insider
The Hollywood Reporter
The Guardian
TMZ
TV Insider
Entertainment Weekly
Variety
The Wrap
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Line
Deadline
TV Insider
TV Insider
|
posted 3/29/2023 |
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TUESDAY: Rookies vs. Singers
NBC, ABC Split, CBS in Reruns
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with CBS' FBIs in rerun mode: NBC's The Voice and ABC's The Rookie tied for the nightly demo win, while the former also copped Tuesday's biggest audience.
The Rookie (with 4.3 million total viewers and a 0.5 demo rating), Feds (2.8 mil/0.3) and Will Trent (3.5 mil/0.3) all added viewers and were steady in the demo, with the latter on track to possibly match (or beat!) its biggest audience of the season.
The CW's Superman & Lois (650K/0.1) dropped some eyeballs, while Gotham Knights (490K/0.1) gained some.
Fox's 9-1-1: Lone Star (3.7 mil/0.4) and Accused (1.9 mil/0.2) were steady.
NBC's Night Court (3.3 mil/0.4), American Auto (1.9 mil/0.2), The Voice (5 mil/0.5) and That's My Jam (2.7 mil/0.4) were all steady.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Chopped (Food): 658k/0.11
- Superchef Grudge Match (Food): 541k/0.12
- Switch (GSN): 438k/0.03
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily
Deadline |
posted 3/29/2023 |
 |
Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Unchallenged" |
- Anneka Rice talks about her reboot getting pulled after TWO episodes (Evening Standard)
- Drag Race alum Rose hosts her sisters in "Titanique's All Aboard!" (Broadway World)
- Dwyane Wade elected to Basketball Hall of Fame (ESPN)
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posted 3/28/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
SYNDIES: Week 25
Results for the Week Ending March 12
From TV Newscheck |
It was either Daylight Saving Time, which began March 12, or March Madness, or both, that took a bite out of the top syndicated access games in the week ending March 19, according to Nielsen Syndication Service national ratings.
Hardest hit was Wheel of Fortune, which tumbled 12% to a third-place 4.5 from a second place 5.2. Leader Jeopardy gave back 7% to 5.1, while Family Feud leapfrogged into second with a 4.6 (down 6%) by losing less than Wheel of Fortune.
In the household rating rankings that follow, % change is from the previous week; * indicates a new season-high rating; ** indicates a new season low; NC indicates no change from the previous week; NA mean not applicable.
GAME SHOWS:
-
Jeopardy (CMV) 5.1 -7%
-
Family Feud (Debmar-Mercury/FMNA) 4.6 -6%
-
Wheel of Fortune (CMV) 4.5 -12%
- 25 Words or Less (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- You Bet Your Life with Jay Leno (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- Pictionary (CMV): 0.4 NC
-
Funny You Should Ask (Allen Media Group) 0.3 NC
TV Newscheck
Daytime Confidential
NextTV
Soap Opera Network
|
posted 3/28/2023 |
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MONDAY: Happy (?) Ending
Voice Begins Battles for NBC, Split Night with Bachelor
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, NBC's The Voice and ABC's The Bachelor tied for the Monday demo win, with the former also delivering he night's biggest audience.
The Bachelor's three-hour season ender averaged 3.2 million total viewers and a 0.6 demo rating, down sharply from last year's Clayton/Gabby/Rachel/Susie drama (which drew 4.7 mil and a 1.1).
The Voice (6.1 mil/0.6) was steady week-to-week, as was this season's penultimate Quantum Leap (2.2 mil/0.3).
FOX's iHeartRadio Music Awards coverage averaged 1.9 mil and a 0.3.
CBS' Young and the Restless 50th anniversary special drew 2.9 mil and a 0.3.
The CW's All American (510K/0.1) and "bubble" drama All American: Homecoming's season (series?) finale (370K/0.1) each added just a handful of eyeballs, up 11 and 3 percent, respectively.
Monday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Rock the Block (HGTV): 1.408m/0.20
- Spring Baking Championship (Food): 1.092m/0.16
- Easter Basket Challenge - 10p (Food): 601k/0.12
- People Puzzler (GSN): 503k/0.05
- Switch
(GSN): 492k/0.05
- Master Minds (GSN): 487k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/28/2023 |
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SUNDAY: On to the Final Four
CBS Wins on Not March Madness
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' 60 Minutes led Sunday in total viewers and probably also scored the demo win, leading out of late-running March Madness coverage.
Pending adjustment due to late starts, CBS currently has 60 Minutes down for 9 million total viewers, the newsmagazine's best prelim audience since Jan. 8. Similarly, The Equalizer is eyeing its largest audience (6.7 mil) since Oct. 23, and East New York drew its most viewers (5.1 mil) since Jan. 15. NCIS: LA (4.2 mil) also added some eyeballs. (No reportable demo numbers for CBS just yet.)
ABC's AFV (4.3 mil/0.4) dipped, while American Idol (5.1 mil/0.6) and The Company You Keep (2.2 mil/0.3) both held steady.
NBC's Magnum P.I. (2.6 mil/0.2) slipped in viewers for a fourth straight week, to a new low, and is currently also matching its demo low. The Blacklist (1.8 mil/0.2) was steady.
Amid a sea of reruns on Fox, Housebroken returned to 600K and a 0.2.
Sunday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)....
- Tournament of Champions (Food): 1.348m/0.27
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/28/2023 |
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"LOL" Heads to South Africa
"Daily Show" Anchor Trevor Noah to Host
From Deadline |
Trevor Noah is heading home after leaving The Daily Show.
The comedian is to host Amazon's first South African original, a remake of its LOL: Last One Laughing format.
The series, which launches next year, will see Noah pit 10 famous South African comedians and entertainers against one another to see who can keep a straight face while simultaneously trying to make their opponents laugh – and lose. It's a competition for a grand prize of R1 million, which goes to the winner's South African charity of choice.
The format has been adapted in more than 20 countries including in Germany, Canada, Mexico and Australia.
The six-part series, featuring 30 minute episodes, is produced by Rapid Blue and Noah's Day Zero Productions. "I'm excited to be back home to host Prime Video's first South African original, LOL: Last One Laughing, and to have a chance to connect with my home audience," said Trevor Noah. "I am equally delighted for the opportunity to be working alongside my fellow home-grown comedy stars on a show that not only entertains but gives back to the South African production and charity communities."
"We are delighted to be announcing Trevor's momentous return home to South Africa as the host of Prime Video's first South African original, LOL: Last One Laughing," added Ned Mitchell, head of Africa and Middle East Originals, Prime Video. "Comedy, in all its forms, shines among South Africa's most valuable treasures. Together with an A-list roster of this country's incredible home-grown comedic talent competing for a great charitable cause, Trevor and Prime Video are demonstrating the depth of our shared ambition to invest and elevate the very best of South Africa for audiences locally and around the world."
Deadline
TV Insider
Variety |
posted 3/28/2023 |
 |
"Celebrity Lingo" Hits the B-E-N-C-H
Reports: ITV to Rest Primetime Series
From Digital Spy |
RuPaul's Celebrity Lingo appears to have been cancelled after just one series.
The Drag Race icon debuted as host of the ITV Sunday night show last year, which is itself a spin-off of the daytime TV game show hosted by Adil Ray.
However, a representative for the series has revealed that there are no plans for a second run of Celebrity Lingo in the UK.
"We don't yet have plans for a second series of Celebrity Lingo. However, another series of the daytime show hosted by Adil Ray is due to air later in the year, and the US series for CBS, which is hosted by RuPaul, has been renewed," they said (via Radio Times).
Digital Spy
Radio Times
Birmingham Mail |
posted 3/28/2023 |
 |
"Next Level Chef" Dropped by ITV
UK Version of US Hit Canceled After One Season
From What to Watch |
Gordon Ramsay is reportedly 'gutted' after his cooking series Next Level Chef has been given the chop at ITV.
In Next Level Chef UK, 12 contestants competed to win a £100,000 prize, plus a year-long mentorship from Gordon Ramsay and his fellow judges, Paul Ainsworth and Nyesha Arrington, which is quite the prize!
It was no easy task though, as they had to cook in a very unique kitchen made of three different floors, with the bottom having poor quality equipment and the top one being an industry-standard fully-equipped kitchen.
However, it looks like Next Level Chef won't be coming back for another intense showdown, as What to Watch reports that the ITV series hasn't been recommissioned by the broadcaster.
Speaking about the news, their source reportedly told the site: "Gordon is highly competitive and he's gutted the series wasn't given a second run.
"These types of shows always take a while to get going and for viewers to connect, so he thinks it wasn't really given a proper chance. But he accepts TV is a brutal world and sometimes shows just don't work out."
Meanwhile, a spokesman for ITV said: "There are no current plans for a second series but viewers can watch series one on ITVX."
What to Watch
LadBible |
posted 3/28/2023 |
 |

Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
This Is Jeopardy!... in Podcast Form
Buzzy Cohen to Host Jeopardy! History Podcast
From Radio Ink |
"This Is Jeopardy!" is a new podcast that goes behind the scenes of Jeopardy.
Former Jeopardy champion & guest host and current Chaser Buzzy Cohen will host the program that looks at the 60 year history of the show.
"For 60 years and counting, Jeopardy! has established itself as a household name. I am so excited for the opportunity to give listeners a never-before-seen look at the show," said Cohen. "I will examine the impact Jeopardy! has had in cultural conversations and bring on some legendary guests who helped shape Jeopardy! into the show we all know and love."
"This is Jeopardy!" takes a deep dive into the show's history using hours of archival tapes and special guests.
Cohen, as a fan-favorite champion and guest host, offers a new angle on the quiz show that has been an American TV staple. The podcast will premiere on Wednesday, April 26 and the trailer is available now.
Radio Ink
Jeopardy!
Sony Music
All Access
Deadline
Daytime Confidential
|
posted 3/28/2023 |
 |
Deal or No Deal UK to Return
Stephen Mulhern to Host for ITV
From Huffpost |
Deal Or No Deal is set to return to our screens - seven years after it was axed by Channel 4.
ITV has announced it is reviving the gameshow, which will be hosted by Stephen Mulhern.
The game show became famous for its red boxes, which contained cash prizes from 1p to the £250,000 jackpot.
The new series will see "a brand-new setting with brand-new prize boxes and a new batch of contestants", according to ITV.
Stephen will replace original host Noel Edmonds, who presented the show for 11 years after it launched on Channel 4 in 2005.
Huffington Post
Royal Television Society |
posted 3/28/2023 |
 |
Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Kelly & Ryan & Mark" |
- Ryan Seacrest champions 22 years of Kelly Ripa's dynasty (Variety)
- Speaking of Kelly Ripa, she was paid "far less" than Mark Consuelos... despite being on the soap longer (TV Line)
- Today's round of Meet the Mediapology features "Love Is Blind's" Micah Lussier (Entertainment Weekly)
- Jerry O'Connell rekindles bond with his "Stand By Me" co-stars (Yahoo!)
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posted 3/28/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV Studios/ABC
The Pyramid at 50
Bob Stewart's Creation Endures
From TV Insider |
Fifty years after the Pyramid format first hit television, not much has changed in the game show's playstyle, apart from the top prize.
"For a lot of people, it used to be The $25,000 Pyramid, so obviously inflation has pumped it up!" Michael Strahan quipped to TV Insider in 2016, when he began hosting the word game created by legendary producer Bob Stewart.
Strahan is right, of course, but the prize was even lower when the format debuted on TV on March 26, 1973.
At the time, the show was titled The $10,000 Pyramid, and it was Dick Clark who was the master of ceremonies.
TV Insider |
posted 3/27/2023 |
 |
The 1% Club Heads to Australia
First Look at the New Seven Series
From Mediaweek |
Seven has revealed its first look at its new game show, The 1% Club, coming soon to Seven and 7Plus.
Hosted by comedian Jim Jefferies, the show promises to deliver an entertaining and hilarious experience as people of all ages and backgrounds find out if they are of the first order.
Unlike most quiz shows, general knowledge isn't what it takes to excel in The 1% Club, but logic and common sense.
Jefferies brings his trademark wit as host, injecting each episode with a healthy dose of laughter.
The perfect fit for this boundary-pushing quiz show, Jefferies is known for his irreverent style and ability to find humor in even the most controversial topics.
One hundred contestants begin every show, but to make it to the end and win the top prize, contestants must correctly answer a question only 1% of the country would get right.
Mediaweek
TV Tonight |
posted 3/27/2023 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Talking About the Perfect Game" |
- Fred Fletcher-Jackson talks about the perfect game, getting tackled by Pat Sajak (Newsweek)
- Drag Race alums pay tribute to Darcelle XV, the world's oldest working drag queen, who died at age 92 (Entertainment Weekly)
- Dragons' Den panelist Kelly Hoppen reveals cancer diagnosis (Birmingham Mail)
- Craig Charles taken to hospital after taking ill (Metro)
- Kelly Clarkson to play Vegas (Deadline)
- Ahmed Best thanks everyone for the love (Looper)
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posted 3/27/2023 |
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ABC
Time of the Season for Game Shows (Again!)
ABC's Summer Fun Begins with Jeopardy! Masters May 8
From TV Line |
ABC has released its summer schedule, which includes a new Jeopardy! spinoff and the delayed second season of the Wonder Years reboot.
It all kicks off on Monday, May 8, with the launch of Jeopardy! Masters, a Ken Jennings-hosted, three-week event that will see the six highest-ranked, current Jeopardy! contestants face off in a Champions League-style tournament.
Its May 24 finale will lead into the new unscripted comedy series The Prank Panel, featuring panelists Johnny Knoxville, Eric Andre and Gabourey Sidibe. Meanwhile, The Wonder Years — which aired its Season 1 finale last May — will not return for Season 2 until Wednesday, June 14. But it is getting a supersized, one-hour premiere! New episodes will lead out of Judge Steve Harvey.
The Bachelorette Season 20 will also arrive in June, fronted by recent Bachelor hopeful Charity Lawson. Additional returning faves include The $100,000 Pyramid, Celebrity Family Feud, The Chase, Generation Gap and Press Your Luck.
TV Line
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/24/2023 |
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ABC
The FINAL "Straw"
ABC Cancels Janelle James-Hosted Series After One Season
From TV Line |
The Final Straw has collapsed in on itself: ABC has cancelled the Jenga-esque game show after one season, TVLine has reported.
ABC declined to comment, but an ABC source concedes that the Janelle James-hosted series is "unlikely to return" for a second season.
Meanwhile, the fates of two other in-limbo ABC game shows, Holey Moley and To Tell the Truth, remain up in the air.
The Final Straw, which bowed last summer, found four teams of contestants facing off to combat "tremendous tipping towers. Each life-sized themed tower is chock full of various objects ranging from basketballs to small kitchen appliances as contestants try to successfully pull items from the stack without tipping it over in order to earn prizes. If the tower falls, the team is eliminated and the last team standing will compete against The Mega Stack, an epic battle of physics where the odds are literally stacked against them, in hopes of winning a life-changing grand prize."
At the time of its launch, Rob Mills, EVP of Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment at Walt Disney Television, heralded The Final Straw — which counted Peyton Manning among its EPs — as a wholly original concept boasting "big visuals" that "is sure to keep audiences on their toes and entertain families all summer long."
TV Line |
posted 3/24/2023 |
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CBS
"Lingo" Ends Season Early
Four Remaining Season 1 Episodes to Air As Part of Season 2
From TV Line |
Lingo is Lingoing away... but only for the time being.
CBS has announced that the RuPaul Charles-hosted game show will be replaced on Wednesday nights at 9/8c with drama series reruns, starting with FBI: Most Wanted on March 22. Survivor opens CBS Wednesdays, while the freshman caper series True Lies closes out the night at 10 pm.
Lingo was recently ordered for a second season, and the remaining four original episodes will be scheduled for next season.
TV Line
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/23/2023 |
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WEDNESDAY: Survivor Surviving
But It's NBC's Night All Around
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' Survivor led Wednesday in the demo, while NBC's Chicago Fire cooked up the night's biggest audience.
Survivor is eyeing a season high in total viewers (with just north of 5 million) and was steady in the demo (0.7). Leading out of an FBI: Most Wanted rerun (2.1 mil/0.2) now that Lingo's season has been ended early, True Lies (2.5 mil/0.2) lost a handful of eyeballs and ticked down to a demo low.
Chicago Med (6.4 mil/0.5), Fire (6.6 mil/0.6) and P.D. (4.9 mil/0.5) all dipped.
Fox's The Masked Singer (3.6 mil/0.5) hit at least season lows, while Farmer Wants a Wife (2 mil/0.2) slipped for a second straight week.
Leading out of sitcom reruns on ABC, A Million Little Things (1.8 mil/0.2) held steady.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Guy's Grocery Games (Food): 657k/0.11
- Switch (GSN): 468k/0.05
- People Puzzler (GSN): 463k/0.04
- Master Minds (GSN): 459k/0.02
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/23/2023 |
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Superstars Go to Jeopardy!
The WWE Get a Category to Themselves Friday
From PWMania |
This week's episode of "Jeopardy!" will feature top WWE Superstars.
The Miz, Alexa Bliss, Kofi Kingston, and 2023 WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio are featured in a promo for tomorrow's "Jeopardy!" episode, as seen below. The group will appear on the show to introduce a new WWE category.
"It's going to be a category of epic proportions [fist emoji[ Hit the ring with some of the best @WWE Superstars TOMORROW on #Jeopardy!" wrote the official Jeopardy Twitter account.
WWE has appeared in several "Jeopardy!" answers over the years, but this is the first time the company will be given its own category.
PW Mania |
posted 3/23/2023 |
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TBS Goes to MIP
Japanese Firm to Bring "Superhuman", "Outsing the Choir!"
From C21 Media |
Japanese broadcaster Tokyo Broadcasting System Television (TBS) will pitch three formats to international buyers during the Talk of Tokyo showcase at next month's MipTV event in Cannes.
Two of the shows, Kamiwaza: The Superhuman Skill Show and Outsing the Choir!, are unscripted competition formats and the third is scripted thriller format My Family, which is currently streaming worldwide on Disney+.
Kamiwaza: The Superhuman Skill Show premiered in 2021 under the name The Kamiwaza Challenge and a series is scheduled to air in a primetime slot on TBS from April. Kamiwaza: The Superhuman Skill Show will air in primetime on TBS It features a mixed group of celebrity and civilian contestants taking on a series of difficult challenges inspired by social media stunts.
Outsing the Choir! is a musical gameshow in which two teams of contestants face off in a singing showdown. Each contestant must sing their chosen song perfectly while not getting thrown by the live in-studio choir.
C21 Media |
posted 3/23/2023 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Speaking of the WWE..." |
- Naomi leaves the WWE, to return to using her real name Trinity Fatu (TV Line)
- Boston Rob Mariano returns, goes hyperlocal (NextTV)
- Family Feud is back in action... and so is Steve Harvey rocking Dolce & Gabbana (TV Insider)
- BECAUSE YOU ALWAYS WONDERED... Why do game show sets nowadays look like the bridge of the Enterprise? (Den of Geek)
- Ken Jennings comes clean about the complaint of the week (Cinema Blend)
- Pat Sajak takes the stage... in Hawaii (Hawai'i Magazine)
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posted 3/23/2023 |
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Game Show Network
Who You Callin' a Yahoo?
Tom Cavanagh to Host GSN/Yahoo! Series
From the Futon Critic |
Today, Game Show Network, the leader in game shows and competitive entertainment, and Yahoo have announced a new series, "Hey Yahoo!" hosted by actor and director Tom Cavanagh. The half-hour original series is scheduled to premiere early this summer.
In "Hey Yahoo!" two teams of three players each compete to guess what millions of people are searching for on Yahoo Search. Contestants are given the first half of a search, and then have to fill-in-the-blank based on what they think America is searching for. For each correct answer, the dollar value of that answer is added to the team's bank. At the end of three rounds of play, the team with the most money wins and will go on to the bonus round for a chance to add an extra $10,000 to their winnings.
Since 2014, Tom Cavanagh has acted & directed the Superhero show "The Flash" on which he plays the archenemy "Reverse Flash." Although he also directs on "Superman & Lois", television audiences may be more familiar with him from shows such as "Ed", "Scrubs", "Trust Me", "Love Monkey", "Eli Stone", "Blue Bloods" and others, while Broadway audiences may know him from the Tony Award winning "Urinetown." Cavanagh recently completed the film "Corrective Measures" alongside Michael Rooker and Bruce Willis, and he is currently producing the upcoming musical "MoviePass!"
"With 'Hey Yahoo!' we're bringing together friends and family to fill in the blank with a modern twist, based on the billions of searches a year happening on Yahoo Search. Game Show Network and I invite you to join the search and share the fun," said Tom Cavanagh.
"Hey Yahoo!" is produced by Game Show Enterprises Studios for Game Show Network with Rane Laymance serving as executive producer and Brian Provost as executive producer for Yahoo. Al Hassas of Sweet Lemons, LLC and Dean Tempest of Big Potato Limited also serve as executive producers.
The FUton Critic
Forbes
Deadline
ComicBookeadline |
posted 3/22/2023 |
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Let's Make a Slot
IGT to Release New LMAD Slot Machine
From CDC Gaming |
International Game Technology Wednesday announced that its Let's Make a Deal video slot game will be available to patrons at the San Manuel, California, casino.
"Yaamava' Resort & Casino at San Manuel is thrilled to be the first casino in North America to bring Let's Make a Deal video slots to our gaming floor," said the resort's chief operating officer, Kenji Hall, in a statement. "IGT's captivating content consistently provides exceptional entertainment to our valued guests, and we are confident their latest TV game show theme will be a casino centerpiece and even further enhance our robust offering of 7,000-plus slot machines."
Let's Make a Deal features the Big Deal of the Day pick bonus and potential Winfall free spins. The immersive game also includes custom voiceovers from the show's talent, and sounds from the show.
The game is housed in a Peak65 cabinet with a progressively curved 65-inch ultra-high-definition display.
"IGT is constantly evolving its diverse portfolio of top-tier licensed themes and is pleased to introduce Let's Make a Deal video slots to Yaamava' Resort & Casino at San Manuel," said IGT Chief Operating Officer Global Gaming Nick Khin. "We very carefully develop game show-inspired themes such as Let's Make a Deal to ensure that players can engage in authentic elements from the actual TV show and expand their overall entertainment experience with their favorite brands."
CDC Gaming |
posted 3/22/2023 |
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VH1
Drag Race Returns to Italy
Paramount+ Greenlights Season 3
From the Futon Critic |
Paramount+ has greenlighted a third season of Drag Race Italia shortly after the unveiling of editions of the World of Wonder smash in Brazil, Germany and Mexico plus a Global Drag Race All Stars. Season 3 will launch on Paramount+ in Italy before being rolled out to the U.S. and Latin America.
The Italian version of RuPaul's Drag Race aired its first two seasons on Discovery+ on the West European country.
"Drag Race has become a global phenomenon and we were honored to be there from the beginning with the incredibly talented team of RuPaul and World of Wonder," said Chris McCarthy, President/CEO of Showtime, MTV Entertainment Studios and Paramount Media Networks. "As we expand Paramount+'s global footprint, it was important to recapture Drag Race in key international markets and also build an interconnected competition series – with a new Global Drag Race All Stars – it's like a global Super Bowl for Drag."
World of Wonder CEOs Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato said another season of the Italian version will help them "continue our mission to spread the joy of drag around the world.
The news was unveiled as Marco Nobili, Paramount+'s EVP and International General Manager, addressed Lille's Series Mania this afternoon.
Deadline
Variety |
posted 3/22/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
SYNDIES: Week 24
Results for the Week Ending March 12
From TV Newscheck |
There was little change on the syndication leaderboard in the week ending March 12, 2023. Long-running game shows Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune continued to dominate with unchanged 5.5 and 5.1 Nielsen National Syndication Service ratings, respectively, while Family Feud remained in third place despite dipping a tenth of a point to 4.9.
In the household rating rankings that follow, % change is from the previous week; * indicates a new season-high rating; ** indicates a new season low; NC indicates no change from the previous week; NA mean not applicable.
GAME SHOWS:
-
Jeopardy (CMV) 5.5 NC
-
Wheel of Fortune (CMV) 5.2 NC
-
Family Feud (Debmar-Mercury/FMNA) 4.9 -2%
- 25 Words or Less (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- You Bet Your Life with Jay Leno (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- Pictionary (CMV): 0.4 -20%
-
Funny You Should Ask (Allen Media Group) 0.3 NC
TV Newscheck
Daytime Confidential
NextTV
Soap Opera Network
|
posted 3/22/2023 |
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AppleTV+ Delivers "My Kind of Country"
Catch It This Friday
From TV Insider |
Country music has never been more diverse and inclusive. Need proof? Look no further than Jimmie Allen, Mickey Guyton, and Orville Peck, the scouts on the new Apple TV+ competition series My Kind of Country.
They'll each invite four artists from around the world to Nashville and the legendary Dark Horse Studios. After watching the contestants' performances, the trio will ultimately decide who goes on to the workshops and then the finale for a shot at $100,000 and the backing of Apple Music. The series, which pulls from elements of The Voice and Nashville Star, comes by way of powerhouse executive producers including Reese Witherspoon and Kacey Musgraves.
As for the scouts, their credentials speak for themselves. The Grammy-nominated Allen is an ACM and CMA Award winner currently on tour performing his hits on Carrie Underwood's "The Denim & Rhinestones Tour." Guyton has been trailblazing within the genre as 2022 TIME Breakthrough Artist of the Year and the first black artist to earn a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album. Wearing his trademark fringe mask, Orville has been inspired not only by his artistry and songwriting but by living his truth as openly gay. The South African name continues to rise, even catching the attention of collaborators Shania Twain and Lady Gaga.
TV Insider |
posted 3/22/2023 |
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TUESDAY: End of the Blinds
"The Voice" Wins Night for NBC
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with CBS' well-watched FBIs in rerun mode: NBC's The Voice delivered Tuesday's largest audience and landed in a four-way tie for the nightly demo win.
Leading out of a Night Court rerun, American Auto (with 1.9 million total viewers and a .02 rating) hit a demo low. The Voice (5 mil/0.4) dipped week-to-week, while That's My Jam (2.6 mil/0.4) ticked up.
ABC's The Rookie (3.8 mil/0.4) dipped in both measures, The Rookie: Feds (2.3 mil/0.3) slipped to its smallest audience of 2023, and Will Trent (3.1 mil/0.3) was steady.
Fox's 9-1-1: Lone Star (3.5 mil/0.4) and Accused (1.9 mil/0.2) both dipped.
The CW's Superman & Lois (680K/0.1) dipped 9 percent in audience from its season opener, while Gotham Knights' audience (420K/0.1) fell 31 percent from its debut.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Chopped (Food): 774k/0.16
- Superchef Grudge Match (Food): 587k/0.14
- Master Minds (GSN): 527k/0.02
- People Puzzler (GSN): 499k/0.03
- Switch (GSN): 481k/0.05
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily
Deadline |
posted 3/22/2023 |
 |
TPIR Celebrates Y&R's 50th
Catch It on CBS March 24
From TV Insider |
Get ready to come on down to The Price Is Right with a very special Young and the Restless twist.
In honor of the soap's 50th anniversary, stars Melody Thomas Scott and Peter Bergman are joining Drew Carey on the game show stage presenting prizes to players. In an exclusive first look at the episode airing Friday, March 24, the costars help show off an iPad up for grabs by contenders as they also converse with Carey in the clip, linked below.
"I know you've both been on the show before, but this is the first time together, right?" Carey asks the pair who surprised fans onstage in the segment. "I think so," Scott muses alongside her costar. Together, she and Bergman share with the audience the celebration of The Young and the Restless's big milestone to which Carey responds, "Holy cow!"
"Congratulations," the host adds, "it's not often you get to be neighbors and friends with somebody for 50 years. So, god bless you, thanks for coming to the show you guys."
Among some of the fun fans can expect from the installment are prizes ranging from new cars, a boat, and a Vespa to getaways to Bali, Spain, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and more.
Don't miss the extra special episode, catch the exclusive first look clip, and tune into The Price Is Right's March 24 episode for a Young and the Restless spin worth watching.
TV Insider
|
posted 3/22/2023 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Love Is Angry" |
- Nick Lachey ordered to anger management (TMZ)
- WGA, AMPTP talk AI in their contracts (Deadline)
- PROGRAMMING NOTE: Deana Carter, Bill Engvall, Erik Estrada to join the Masked Singer panel (Variety)
- VIDEO WALL: Pat Sajak gives the people's arm bar to a Wheel champ. (TV Insider)
- Craig Charles out of "Moneybags" (Birmingham Mail)
- Did Kelleran Beq look familiar to you on today's "The Mandalorian"? He should (Forever Geek)
- Kristen Kish stars in a new NatGeo series (Reality Blurred)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Stephen Webb (TV Insider)
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posted 3/22/2023 |
 |

Glamour
HGTV to Reconstruct Barbie's Dream House
Ashley Graham to Host
From the Futon Critic |
One of the world's most iconic toys will become reality when HGTV taps into the zeitgeist of Mattel's Barbie(R) in its new competition series, Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge, set to premiere on HGTV this summer.
Inspired by the singular, enduring popularity of the global icon herself and by the excitement surrounding the upcoming release of the Warner Bros. Pictures film, Barbie, HGTV will harness the unmatched power of its corporate siblings to support four nostalgia-filled episodes and execute Barbie-themed cross-network content and promotions. Punctuated by celebrity guests, pop culture history and a plethora of Barbie surprises, Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge will be hosted by supermodel, designer, author and entrepreneur Ashley Graham and feature eight teams of HGTV superstars as they transform a Southern California home into a real-life Barbie Dreamhouse. In the end, one passionate Barbie fan will get the chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime stay in a home created for dreamers.
"By aligning two admired brands - HGTV and Mattel's Barbie - and mobilizing the power of the best-in-class portfolio of Warner Bros. Discovery, Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge will deliver a unique, visually stunning payoff for millions of fans who want to see their favorite HGTV stars bring a treasured childhood icon to life," said Loren Ruch, Head of Content, HGTV.
"I cannot wait to see Barbie's signature style get the life-sized treatment in an actual home," said Ashley. "She holds such a special place in my heart, especially since Mattel created a one-of-a-kind doll of me back in 2016. It feels like such a full circle moment now that I have a hand in the creation of her real-life Dreamhouse."
During the series, 15 talented HGTV home design and renovation experts and one celebrated Food Network chef will participate in the creation of Barbie's Dreamhouse, including: Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson (Married to Real Estate); Jasmine Roth (Help! I Wrecked My House) and Antonia Lofaso (Beachside Brawl); Ty Pennington (Rock the Block) and Alison Victoria (Windy City Rehab); Jonathan Knight and Kristina Crestin (Farmhouse Fixer); Christina Hall and James Bender (Christina on the Coast); Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas (Bargain Block); Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt (100 Day Dream Home); and Michel Smith Boyd and Anthony Elle Williams (Luxe for Less). Teams will overhaul areas of the home with an era-specific style, such as an early 1960s atomic age kitchen, a '70s disco vibe for Ken's Den and a main bedroom decked out in '80s glam.
The FUton Critic
Variety |
posted 3/21/2023 |
 |
WWEel of Fortune
America's Game Looking for Wrestling Fans
From eWrestling |
A handful of WWE Superstars will take time out of their busy schedules this week to film episodes of "Wheel of Fortune" that will air during WWE Week, the week leading up to WrestleMania 39.
According to PWInsider, former "SmackDown" Women's Champion Liv Morgan, Damage CTRL's Bayley, and former WWE Champion Big E will participate. After The New Day's Xavier Woods appeared on the show's spin-off, "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune," last October, it was announced that WWE had teamed up with the popular TV game show to produce a week of shows set to broadcast prior to WWE's biggest show of the year. The first episode is slated to air on Monday, March 27.
Late last year, WWE released details about how individuals could apply to be contestants on these unique episodes, which will see fans team up with WWE Superstars on the show. It was confirmed that the "winning teams will secure fabulous rewards such as a trip to WrestleMania and other exclusive WWE prize packages."
Each star will team up with a 'Superfan' in an attempt to win the "ultimate WrestleMania VIP experience". The trio's appearing include:
- Monday (27):
Xavier Woods, Drew McIntyre and Carmella.
- Tuesday (28):
Sonya Deville, Austin Theory and Bianca Belair.
- Wednesday (29)
Big E, Bayley and Liv Morgan.
- Thursday (30):
Natalya, The Miz and Kofi Kingston.
eWrestling News
Wheel of Fortune
PW Mania
Wrestling Inc.
eWrestling News
411Mania
Wrestletalk |
posted 3/21/2023 |
 |

ITV
Out of Retirement
"Egghead" Judith Keppel to Return for 2000th Episode
From Cambridgeshire Live |
Original Eggheads star Judith Keppel is to come out of retirement to appear in the 2,000th episode of the popular quiz show.
The program began in 2003, first screening on the BBC before moving to Channel 5 in 2021, with current host Jeremy Vine joining in 2008.
The milestone episode, which airs on March 22, will follow the famous format with a team of contestants attempting to beat a panel of specialist quizzers in a test of their general knowledge.
TV quiz royalty Keppel, who was catapulted to fame as the first UK winner of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? in 2000, retired from Eggheads at the end of the last series after 19 years on the hit show but returned for the special episode.
The 80-year-old told the PA news agency: "It's amazing. It's lovely to be able to be doing that. Eggheads obviously has been a great success over the years because we've gone on such a long time."
Explaining the success of the show, she added: "I think people love bringing teams. What Eggheads has become is what I call wallpaper TV. Students have their TV on all the time, so they see Eggheads and then they bring a team because they think it'd be a laugh.
"And then we have families who come on, and we have pub teams, because they always have quiz teams, and work teams and also charity teams.
"All sorts of people seem to enjoy bringing teams and participating. I think that's the secret to it really. It's not University Challenge, which absolutely bamboozles most people… the science questions on University Challenge, I don't know what they're talking about.
"It's possible to beat us."
Cambridgeshire Live
Metro
|
posted 3/21/2023 |
 |
MONDAY: Deadlock
NBC Wins Totals, Big Four Tie in Demo
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, Fox's 9-1-1, NBC's The Voice and ABC's The Bachelor tied for the Monday demo win, while CBS' NCIS led the night in total viewers — but just barely!
The Voice (with 6.3 million total viewers and a 0.6 rating) was down a tick week-to-week. Quantum Leap dipped to one of its smaller audiences thus far (1.9 million) while posting its sixth 0.3 rating out of the past eight episodes.
9-1-1 (4.3 mil/0.6) ticked up in the demo.
The Bachelor (3.1 mil/0.6) also was up in the demo, while The Good Doctor (3.4 mil/0.3) was steady.
CBS's The Neighborhood (5.6 mil/0.5), NCIS (6.4 mil/0.4) and Hawai'i (4.8 mil/0.3) were all steady in the demo, though the NCISes both lost some eyeballs. Bob Hearts Abishola (5 mil/0.4) was down a tenth in the demo.
The CW's All American (480K/0.1) slipped to its smallest audience since Jan. 30 and tied its demo low. Homecoming (370K/0.1) drew its smallest audience since Jan. 23.
Monday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Rock the Block (HGTV): 1.370m/0.20
- Spring Baking Championship (Food): 1.027m/0.15
- Easter Basket Challenge - 10p (Food): 586k/0.11
- Master Minds (GSN): 513k/0.04
- Switch
(GSN): 503k/0.07
- Easter Basket Challenge - 9p (Food): 494k/0.07
- People Puzzler (GSN): 453k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/21/2023 |
 |
SUNDAY: On to the Sweet 16
CBS Wins on Not-Round 2 Coverage
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' 60 Minutes clocked in with Sunday's biggest audience, while the night's demo winner is, at this point, TBD.
60 Minutes is reporting the night's largest audience (with 8.5 million viewers, per CBS). The Equalizer drew 6.1 mil, East New York did 4.8 mil and NCIS: Los Angeles delivered 3.9 mil. 60 MINUTES benefitted from afternoon NCAA TOURNAMENT games at 1.43/2.40/2.64 and rose four-tenths to 0.93. THE EQUALIZER gained 0.09 to 0.49, EAST NEW YORK climbed 0.06 to 0.36, and NCIS: LA ticked down to 0.31 (compared to its last new episode 2 weeks ago).
Leading out of a Dateline rerun on NBC, Magnum P.I. dipped to a new audience low (2.9 mil) while posting its fifth straight 0.3 rating. The Blacklist (1.7 mil/0.2) was also down in audience/steady in the demo.
ABC's AFV (4.2 mil/0.4) and American Idol (4.7 mil/0.6) were down, while The Company You Keep (2.2 mil/0.3) was statistically steady in audience and is currently up a tenth in the demo.
Fox's The Simpsons drew 830,000 and a 0.2, followed by The Great North's 600K/0.2 and Bob's Burgers' 740K/0.2.
Sunday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)....
- Tournament of Champions (Food): 1.170m/0.19
- MILF Manor (SF/TLC): 696k/0.15
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/21/2023 |
 |

Sony Pictures TV
She's Katie Nolan, and She's "Got a Secret"
Sony, GSN to Pilot Classic Panel Series
From Forbes |
Classic game shows never officially conclude; they come back in revivals. And the latest potential entry is I've Got a Secret, which first launched in 1952.
Embassy Row, Werner Entertainment and Game Show Enterprises Studios, GSN's production arm, will co-produce a pilot of this potential modern day version of I've Got a Secret, hosted by sports television personality Katie Nolan.
Pitched as an hour, either for network or syndication, and positioned as a game show with comedic overtones, four celebrity panelists will try and figure out each contestant's "secret," drawn from pop culture both past and present, by asking them a series of yes or no questions.
The scoop: One contestant might be the billionaire creator of an app you use every day. Another might be the parent of a chart-topping pop star. Or one could be the voice of one of your favorite cartoon characters or a person who made national headlines as a famous baby. Celebrity panelists for the pilot are comedians Nikki Glaser, Colton Dunn, Cristela Alonso and Matteo Lane.
"I've Got a Secret is a foundational format in the history of game shows," said Michael Davies, Embassy Row founder and Jeopardy! executive producer in a statement. "To get to reinvent it with a young host of such immense talent as Katie Nolan, and to populate the studio with such a desirable panel of comics is a testament to its natural and modern appeal."
Forbes
The Futon Critic
Realscreen
Broadway World
Entertainment Weekly
Reality TV World
Deadline
Awful Announcing
|
posted 3/21/2023 |
 |
Drag Race vs. Politics
"Drag Isn't Dangerous" Campaign Launched
From Entertainment Weekly |
RuPaul's Drag Race winners and queer icons are teaming up to make a high-heeled stand against anti-drag politics with a high-profile telethon.
Amid a rise in U.S. state legislation that limits drag as well as gender-affirming healthcare for transgender children, EW reports that drag management firm Producer Entertainment Group has partnered with GLAAD, Queerty parent company Q.Digital, OUTtv, Obsessed, Trixie Cosmetics, SERV Vodka, and Headcount.org to launch the Drag Isn't Dangerous campaign, including a one-night-only streaming telethon that will divide proceeds among charities that support LGBTQ causes and drag performers in need.
Featuring a wealth of talent — none of whom are taking a fee for the event — from numerous RuPaul's Drag Race winners to community staples, the Drag Isn't Dangerous telethon will include a mix of live and pre-taped sets as well as testimonials from LGBTQ people as well as straight celebrity allies.
Entertainment Weekly |
posted 3/20/2023 |
 |
Super-Second Super Season of Superchefs
Food Network Gives Greenlight
From The Futon Critic |
Food Network has ordered an eight-episode season two pickup of primetime series Superchef Grudge Match, it was announced today by Betsy Ayala, Head of Content, Food, Warner Bros. Discovery. In each episode, host Darnell Ferguson settles two long-standing personal and professional food feuds in one-round, one-dish winner-takes-all heavyweight battles. The series has reached more than 8M P2+ viewers to-date and is currently Food Network's highest-rated freshman launch of the year, outperforming prior six-week timeslot benchmarks by +57% among P25-54 and +72% among W25-54.
Season two production is scheduled to begin later this year, with new episodes slated to premiere early 2024. Superchef Grudge Match currently airs Tuesdays at 9pm ET/PT on Food Network and streaming on discovery+.
"Our viewers love seeing these chefs settle their real-life conflicts and Darnell is the perfect host to lead all the action," said Ayala. "Superchef Grudge Match has quickly become a fan favorite and we are thrilled to announce more culinary feuds will be resolved in season two."
"Season one of Superchef Grudge Match was an amazing experience and only just the beginning, I cannot wait to settle more food rivalries in season two," said Ferguson.
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/20/2023 |
 |
FRIDAY: More Madness!
CBS Wins on Round 1 Coverage
From TV Line |
In the latest TV ratings, CBS' coverage of the NCAA men's basketball tournament dominated Friday in the demo, and veritably tied ABC's Shark Tank for the night's biggest audience.
Primetime March Madness coverage averaged 3.35 million total viewers and a 0.7 demo rating, on par with Thursday's Night 1 tallies.
Shark Tank (3.37 mil/0.4) was steady.
Fox's Friday Night SmackDown (2.1 mil/0.5) ticked down.
NBC's Lopez vs. Lopez (1.9 mil/0.2) and Grand Crew (1.2 mil/0.1) were steady in viewers yet dipped in the demo.
The CW Whose Line Is It Anyway? (570K/0.1) surged in viewers.
Friday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)...
- RuPaul's Drag Race (MTV): 510k/0.20
- RuPaul's Drag Race Untucked (MTV): 222k/0.10
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/20/2023 |
 |
Monday Lightning Round
... or "Back to Vegas" |
- Game Show Boot Camp returns August 5 (Wheatridge Foundation)
- JeoparDAY! returns March 30 (Jeopardy.com)
- Jackie Lamatis moves on from Wheel's contestant office (Twitter @PatOnWheel)
- We'll see Terry Crews in the funnies... or on a pilot based on the funnies (Deadline)
- Gino D'Acampo walks out of chef road trip (Deadline)
- Gabby Windey goes on a date with Alan Bersten (People)
- Nick Wilson cast his vote... and Survivor nation is not happy (Reality Blurred)
- Marc Summers to 90s Con: "They will never ever do (Double Dare) again" (ComicBook)
|
posted 3/20/2023 |
 |

BBC
Alison Hammond Heads to the Tents
"This Morning" Host Joins Noel Fielding on "Great British Baking Show"
From Deadline |
Alison Hammond has been confirmed as the new host of The Great British Bake Off.
Hammond, who co-hosted the BAFTA Film Awards last month, will replace Matt Lucas on Channel 4's baking competition. The show has a loyal following on Netflix in the U.S. as "The Great British Baking Show".
The Daily Mirror first reported the news on Thursday and Hammond confirmed it on TikTok this morning.
Hammond first graced British television screens as a contestant on Big Brother in 2002. She has gone on to become a much-loved presenter, hosting ITV's This Morning, where she has become known for viral celebrity interviews. This included an encounter with Harrison Ford and Ryan Gosling in 2017, in which she admitted to having never watched Blade Runner.
Hammond has appeared on the celebrity version of The Great British Bake Off, in which she captured the show's essence by telling viewers: "Good baking comes from the heart and I have got a lot of heart."
Hammond will co-host with Noel Fielding, while Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith will return as judges.
Commenting on Hammond's casting, Channel 4's Chief Content Officer Ian Katz said: "Alison is much loved, effortlessly funny and the owner of the best laugh in Britain. She was a huge hit when she appeared on Celebrity Bake Off and we're thrilled to have her back in the tent."
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
The Wrap
TV Insider
What to Watch
The Guardian
Sky News
BBC News
|
posted 3/17/2023 |
 |
THURSDAY: Come On and Watch Some Basketball
CBS, ABC Split
From TV Line |
In the latest TV ratings, CBS' March Madness coverage tipoff dominated Thursday in the demo, while ABC's Station 19 fired up the largest audience.
Primetime coverage of the NCAA men's basketball championship tournament averaged 3.2 million total viewers and a 0.8 demo rating.
Station 19 (4.2 mil/0.5), Grey's Anatomy (3.4 mil/0.4, read recap) and Alaska Daily (2.9 mil/0.2) all added viewers and were steady in the demo, with Alaska Daily matching its best audience since Episode 2.
Fox's Next Level Chef (1.9 mil/0.4) was steady, while Animal Control (1.4 mil/0.3) and Call Me Kat (1.3 mil/0.3) both ticked up.
Thursday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Top Chef: World All-Stars (Bravo): 658k/0.14
- People Puzzler (GSN): 514k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 477k/0.04
- Master Minds (GSN): 454k/0.03
- Ex on the Beach (MTV): 122k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/10/2023 |
 |
"Feud" Contestant Charged with Murder
Joke Emerges from 2020 Episode
From Entertainment Weekly |
Former Family Feud contestant Timothy "Tim" W. Bliefnick has been charged with the murder of his estranged wife three years after joking about their marriage on the popular game show.
On Monday, Illinois' Quincy Police Department announced in a press release that the 39-year-old is facing two counts of first degree murder and home invasion in connection with the murder of Rebecca Bliefnick, 41, who was found shot to death in her home on Feb. 23.
Bliefnick and his family members — not including his wife — appeared on the popular game show in 2020, per the Kansas City Star.
His lawyer insists his client his innocent. "It's a game show. A silly answer to a silly question on a silly show doesn't make one a murderer."
Entertainment Weekly
Indy100
News24
Flipboard
The Independent
|
posted 3/17/2023 |
 |
Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Full Circle" |
- Dwayne Johnson reunites with Brendan Fraser after he wins an Oscar (Deadline)
- VIDEO WALL: The brand new for 2023 LEt's Make a DEal slot (YouTube @BrianChristopherSlots)
- Chloe Veitch moves on from her "Perfect Match"... after two weeks... while living with him for over two months. Something doesn't add up. (E!)
- FIRST LOOK: a split second... of "Split Second" (YouTube @GameShowNetwork)
- Banijay goes on a spending spree (Deadline)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Ally Love (Variety)
|
posted 3/17/2023 |
 |

Warner Horizon TV/ABC
Sweet Charity
Charity Lawson Picked as New "Bachelorette"
From The Futon Critic |
Following her heartbreaking departure after her hometown date on Zach Shallcross' season of "The Bachelor," Charity Lawson's journey to find love will continue when she steps in as the leading woman for the upcoming 20th season of "The Bachelorette." The captivating 27-year-old will begin handing out roses when the series returns this summer. Watch episodes on demand and on Hulu the day following their premieres.
A child and family therapist from Columbus, Georgia, Lawson earned a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Auburn University. She stole America's heart on season 27 of "The Bachelor" with her confidence, compassion for helping others and magnetic smile. Audiences saw Lawson open herself up to finding love by taking risks, all while supporting those around her. After her emotional exit, she solidified Bachelor Nation's trust in her genuine desire to find love.
As the Bachelorette, Lawson is searching for a life partner who loves dogs, thrifting and a good tailgate; but, above all else, is honest, empathetic and values her for who she is. With parents who have been married over 47 years, Lawson has been instilled with the confidence of knowing what she deserves and is eager to find a lasting love matching their example.
The Futon Critic
Parade
Deadline
Variety
Entertainment Weekly
Reality TV World
|
posted 3/16/2023 |
 |
WEDNESDAY: Survivor Surviving
CBS Wins the Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with NBC's #OneChicago in rerun mode: CBS' Survivor easily led Wednesday in both the demo and in total viewers.
Survivor (with 4.8 million total viewers and a 0.7 demo rating) was up in viewers and steady in the demo. Lingo (2.1 mil/0.3) and True Lies (2.5 mil/0.3) were also steady.
Fox's The Masked Singer (3.8 mil/0.6) and Farmer Wants a Wife (2.3 mil/0.3) both dipped.
The CW's The Flash (570K/0.1) inched up to match its best audience of the farewell season.
ABC's The Conners (3.8 mil/0.5), The Goldbergs (2.4 mil/0.4) and Abbott (2.7 mil/0.5) all rose in the demo, while Not Dead Yet (2 mil/0.3) and Million Little Things (1.9 mil/0.2) were steady.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Moonshiners: Master Distiller (Discovery): 460k/0.07
- Master Minds (GSN): 443k/0.04
- People Puzzler (GSN): 442k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 430k/0.06
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/16/2023 |
 |
Saved by CW
"FBoy Island" Un-cancelled, Spun Off
From TV Line |
FBoy Island is getting another shot at love: Following its cancellation by HBO Max, the dating show has landed at The CW for a third season, according to Deadline. What's more, The CW is also poised to pick up a spinoff titled FGirl Island, a gender-swapped version of the original.
FBoy Island, a tongue-in-cheek reality series created by The Bachelor producer Elan Gale, sees three women choose from a field of potential mates in a tropical locale, with the men secretly divided between "Fboys" who are superficial and commitment-phobic and "nice guys" who are ready for an adult relationship. (When "Fboys" are eliminated, they are condemned to a sparse, Survivor-like shelter, while eliminated "nice guys" are given luxury accommodations and lavish meals.) Comedian Nikki Glaser hosts and adds lots of snarky one-liners to the proceedings, including the immortal kiss-off line: "Fboy? F-bye."
Fboy Island premiered on HBO Max in July 2021 with a 10-episode freshman season. It was renewed the following month, and Season 2 debuted this past July. HBO Max then cancelled the series in December, amid a reported move away from unscripted content. It remains to be seen, though, how airing on a broadcast network like The CW will affect FBoy Island's more adults-only elements.
TV Line
Deadline
|
posted 3/16/2023 |
 |
Chopped Salutes the Military
New Tournament Premieres April 25
From The Futon Critic |
From the front lines to the Chopped kitchen, sixteen military chefs are ready to put their culinary skills to the test in the new five-part tournament Chopped: Military Salute hosted by Ted Allen and premiering Tuesday, April 25th at 8pm on Food Network. With precision, speed, and persistence, chefs from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines will cook their hearts out in preliminary heats as they vie for the chance to compete in the final showdown. The chefs must bring their culinary arsenal as they showcase their cooking knowledge and techniques over three rounds - appetizer, entrée, and dessert - while using the mandatory basket of mystery ingredients to create delicious dishes to impress a rotating panel of judges, including Air Force veteran Sunny Anderson, Scott Conant, Cliff Crooks, Alex Guarnaschelli and Marc Murphy. Then, it's a twist in the grand finale, as the finalists, each representing their branch of the military, join forces as a team to cook against a different Chopped judge in every round including, Eric Adjepong, Tiffani Faison and Amanda Freitag, for a chance to win up to $75,000 for a charitable cause and the title of Chopped Champion. Commemorating this spectacular final showdown, a special VIP guest visits the Chopped kitchen to surprise and celebrate the competitors.
"Chopped is a battle of precision and skill and in Chopped: Military Salute we celebrate the men and women who put their precision and skill to the test every day and who have devoted their lives to their country," said Betsy Ayala, Head of Content, Food, Warner Bros. Discovery. "With increased stakes and a finale twist, this tournament will have the audience on the edge of their seats as the best of the best bring their passion, pride and prowess to the Chopped kitchen."
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/16/2023 |
 |
More "Taskmaster", More Often
Six Seasons, Junior Edition Forthcoming
From UPI |
British game show Taskmaster will return for six more seasons. Channel 4 announced in a press release Wednesday that it renewed the series and is also developing the spinoff Junior Taskmaster.
Taskmaster is a comedy panel show created by Alex Horne and hosted by Horne and Greg Davies. Each episode features a group of five celebrities as they attempt to complete challenges, with Horne acting as umpire and Davies as "taskmaster."
The series originally premiered on Dave in 2015 and started airing on Channel 4 in 2020.
Junior Taskmaster "will see young people aged 9 to 11 bring their fledgling wiles, athleticism and creativity to the game that recognizes genius at any age." Hosts for the spinoff will be announced soon.
"I've watched many, many comedians flounder when given simple instructions over the past few years and I fully expect the competitors in Junior Taskmaster to be both more competent and just as funny. For that series, I will be handing over my assistant's clipboard to someone equally as efficient and persistent as myself because I have a lot more admin to do with six further handfuls of supposedly talented adults. I live for bureaucracy so this is all excellent news," Horne said in a statement.
"My long-term contempt for young people is a matter of record but other people here at Taskmaster HQ seem convinced that they have merit. I am thrilled that two new team members are putting this questionable hypothesis to the test and will take on the challenge of corralling and assessing them on television. I will be watching closely to ensure standards are met. I am also delighted that Alex and I return to test the intelligence of comedians in the most scientific of ways. I'll be pretty angry. It's not even an act anymore," Davies added.
UPI
Radio Times
C21 Media
|
posted 3/16/2023 |
 |
More on "Love Is Blind" Season 4
Meet the Cast!
From the Futon Critic |
We're ready! Meet the Love is Blind Season 4 singles who are looking to find the one. Get a glimpse into their personalities and what they're looking for in a potential partner before the new season premieres on March 24th only on Netflix.
Singles who want to be loved for who they are, rather than what they look like, have signed up for a less conventional approach to modern dating in Seattle where they hope to meet the person they want to spend the rest of their lives with...without ever having seen them. With no distractions from the outside world, the singles talk to a stream of potential love interests and when a meaningful connection is made, they propose and then lay their eyes on their fiancé for the first time. Engaged and back in the real world, as the couples plan their wedding day, they will quickly discover whether they can turn their emotional connection into a physical one before the fast-approaching ceremony. Hosted by Nick and Vanessa Lachey, this addictive series will uncover whether looks, race or age do matter, or if love really is blind.
MEET THE SINGLES
· Amber - 34, Flight Attendant
· April - 29, Sales & Marketing Coordinator
· Ava - 32, Communications Specialist
· Bill - 33, Real Estate Investor
· Bliss - 33, Senior Program Manager
· Brandie - 39, Real Estate Broker
· Brett - 36, Design Director
· Chelsea - 31, Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist
· Chris - 32, Technical Recruiter
· Conner - 28, Operations Manager
· Irina - 26, Business Owner
· Jack - 30, Software Sales
· Jackelina - 27, Certified Dental Assistant
· Jimmy - 29, Technical Product Manager
· Josh - 31, Project Engineer
· Josh "JP" - 30, Plant Operations Director
· Juan - 30, Mortgage Loan Officer
· Kacia - 31, Family Support Specialist
· Kendra - 33, Social Worker
· Kwame - 33, Sales Development Manager
· Marshall - 27, Marketing Manager
· Micah - 27, Marketing Manager
· Molly - 32, Marriage & Family Therapist
· Monica - 31, Elementary School Teacher
· Paul - 29, Environmental Scientist
· Quincy - 36, Gym Owner & Fitness Coach
· Ryland - 29, Commercial Insurance & Real Estate
· Tiffany - 37, Client Lead Recruiter
· Wendi - 28, Aerospace Engineer
· Zack - 31, Criminal Defense Attorney
The Futon Critic
Variety
Deadline
Entertainment Weekly
Entertainment Weekly
TV Line
The Futon Critic
TV Insider |
posted 3/16/2023 |
 |
Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Answering Back" |
- Physical:100 producers deny that the series was fixed (NME)
- Damar Hamlin gives an update on his health on "The Masked Singer" (Gold Derby)
- Witney Carson's moving her family to Florida (Reality TV World)
- Tyler Cameron only had $200 when he was dating Gigi Hadid (Reality TV World)
- Banijay goes on a spending spree (Deadline)
- CROWNING MOMENT OF AWESOME: meet the landmark first champ of Saudi Idol (Variety)
|
posted 3/16/2023 |
 |
TUESDAY: Look Who's Back...
"The Voice", "FBI" Fuel Split Decision
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, NBC's The Voice led Tuesday in the demo, while CBS' FBI easily copped the night's largest audience.
FBI (with 7 million viewers and a 0.4 demo rating) and International (5.4 mil/0.3) both dipped in the demo, while Most Wanted (5 mil/0.3) was steady — and all three shows posted their best audiences since Jan. 24.
Night Court (3.4 mil/0.4) slipped to new lows, American Auto (2 mil/0.2) hit a demo low and The Voice (4.7 mil/0.5) was steady week-to-week. That's My Jam closed out the night with 2.5 mil/0.3.
The CW's Superman & Lois returned to 753K and a 0.1, off just a tick from its Season 2 averages. Gotham Knights debuted to 602K and a 0.1, which is on par with what Walker Independence opened with in the fall (615K/0.1, leading out of the network's other most-watched program).
Fox's 9-1-1: Lone Star (3.6 mil/0.4) dipped, while Accused (1.9 mil/0.3) was steady.
ABC's The Bachelor's "Women Tell All" special drew 2.6 mil and a 0.4.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Chopped (Food): 603k/0.10
- Master Minds (GSN): 505k/0.05
- Superchef Grudge Match (Food): 497k/0.09
- People Puzzler (GSN): 460k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 426k/0.05
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily
Deadline |
posted 3/15/2023 |
 |
Let's Make a Deal Returns to Primetime
First of Four Specials to Air April 19
From The Futon Critic |
LET'S MAKE A DEAL PRIMETIME, hosted by Emmy Award winner Wayne Brady, is back this spring with four new specials, to be broadcast Wednesday, April 19, Wednesday, April 26, Wednesday, May 3 and Wednesday, May 10 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+*.
Beginning Wednesday, April 19, LET'S MAKE A DEAL PRIMETIME returns with a salute to the military episode. The audience is filled with active and retired men and women who have served our country - some even playing virtually from around the world. To thank the service men and women, LET'S MAKE A DEAL is giving away the biggest amount of cash and prizes in the series' history! Plus, special guest Jordin Sparks shows her appreciation by singing a prize clue with Wayne.
On Wednesday, April 26 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), LET'S MAKE A DEAL PRIMETIME packs an entire week's worth of daily daytime episodes into one special night, starting with a Mega Money Monday $25,000 guaranteed win! Tiffany unveils her food truck to celebrate Taco Tuesday, complete with a special taco stuffed with a hidden prize. Luxury travel takes center stage on Worldwide Wednesday with a dream vacation to Japan, Thailand and Singapore. Then, Throwback Thursday honors the LMAD originals, with prize clues from clips featuring Monty Hall and Carol Merrill. Finally, on Fabulous Car Friday, one lucky trader can win a McLaren. Additional prizes include a Ford Mustang, a European cruise and a baby grand piano.
With summer approaching, it's time to start thinking about tropical getaways, and LET'S MAKE A DEAL PRIMETIME has got you covered with a Vacation! episode airing Wednesday, May 3 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), packed with all of the deluxe getaways, including luxury trips to the Maldives, Bora Bora, Bali, Ibiza, Hawaii, Jamaica and more. Then, everyone will feel those vacation vibes with a special performance from Shaggy! Plus, one trader will win $50,000 and another could win an unbelievable seven continent tour.
On Wednesday, May 10 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), LET'S MAKE A DEAL PRIMETIME celebrates its season finale with big prizes and even bigger winners in some of the show's most iconic deals and games, including Dr. Wayne, Accelerator and the new classic, Jewel Heist. Lucky traders could win $30,000 in cash, trips to Spain, Switzerland and the Dominican Republic, along with an electric Ford Mustang, a Genesis G70 and even a Bentley!
LET'S MAKE A DEAL PRIMETIME is produced by Fremantle. John Quinn is the executive producer.
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/15/2023 |
 |
No Laughing Matter in Quebec
LOL: Quie Rira Le Dernier? Returns to Prime
From The Futon Critic |
Prime Video today announced the green light of two new seasons of the hit series, LOL: Qui Rira Le Dernier?, with stand-up comedian, actor, writer, director, and producer Patrick Huard (Bon Cop Bad Cop, Starbuck) returning as host for both seasons of the Canadian Amazon Original series.
Featuring a cast of popular French-speaking comedic actors and stand-ups competing to make each other laugh first, the Quebec version of the global comedy format will be shot in Montreal by producers Attraction. LOL: Qui Rira Le Dernier? will be available exclusively on Prime Video in 240 countries and territories worldwide.
"That takes me back to when I was a teenager, to that adrenaline high of getting folks to laugh with the sole purpose of having fun! For weeks, people everywhere have been talking to me about it... laughing. And that really makes me happy," said Patrick Huard, host, LOL: Qui Rira Le Dernier?. "Those are the reasons it wasn't hard to persuade me to host seasons 2 and 3. Not to mention the pleasure of finding ideas to torture participants even more!"
"As we launch more content for our French language customers, we are delighted to see LOL: Qui Rira Le Dernier? connect and become a smash-hit for Prime Video in Quebec," said Magda Grace, head of Prime Video, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. "Having Patrick return to host two more seasons is a game-changer and we are excited to keep Quebec audiences laughing."
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/9/2023 |
 |
Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "An Apology with the World Watching..." |
- Greer Blitzer obviously talked to a lawyer. Why else would she apologize on national TV? (Variety)
- Gabby Windey hangs up her dancing shoes (Reality TV World)
- "Taskmaster" up for an international award (Chortle)
- You can fight the good fight (REality Blurred)
|
posted 3/14/2023 |
 |

NHK
KENICHI CHEN: 1956-2023
Chinese "Iron Chef"
From Japan News |
Chef Kenichi Chen, famous for his appearances on the popular TV series "Ryouri no Tetsujin" (Iron Chef), died in a Tokyo hospital on Saturday due to interstitial pneumonia. He was 67.
Chen was known as "Chyuka no Tetsujin," or the Iron Chinese, from the show's inception in 1993 to its finale in 2000.
Born in Tokyo in 1956, Chen's real name was Kenichi Azuma. His father was a chef from China who introduced Sichuan cuisine throughout Japan.
Chen was chairman of the Szechwan Restaurant group and also chaired The Japan Association of Chinese Cuisine from 2011.
Chen is survived by two sons, including noted Singaporean chef Kentaro Chen.
The Japan News
NHK (Japanese) |
posted 3/14/2023 |
 |

Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
SYNDIES: Week 23
Results for the Week Ending March 5
From TV Newscheck |
Live with Kelly and Ryan continued to top the talkers with an unchanged 1.6 Nielsen Syndication Service national rating for the week ending March 5. Soon to depart first-run Dr. Phil held on to second, but climbed 17% to a 1.4.
The three top game shows also took win, place, and show for all of syndication with Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune remaining at a 5.5 and 5.2, respectively, while Family Feud dipped 6% to a third-place 5.0. The top three outdistanced their competition by more than a factor of five.
In the household rating rankings that follow, % change is from the previous week; * indicates a new season-high rating; ** indicates a new season low; NC indicates no change from the previous week; NA mean not applicable.
GAME SHOWS:
-
Jeopardy (CMV) 5.5 NC
-
Wheel of Fortune (CMV) 5.2 NC
-
Family Feud (Debmar-Mercury/FMNA) 5.0 -6%
- 25 Words or Less (Fox First Run) 0.7 -13%
- You Bet Your Life with Jay Leno (Fox First Run) 0.7 -13%
- Pictionary (CMV): 0.5 NC
-
Funny You Should Ask (Allen Media Group) 0.3 -25%
TV Newscheck
Daytime Confidential
NextTV
Soap Opera Network
|
posted 3/14/2023 |
 |
MONDAY: Springing Forward
NBC Wins Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, and with Daylight Saving Time now upon us/everyone ostensibly outdoors throwing a Frisbee at night: NBC's The Voice led Monday in the demo, while CBS' NCIS copped the largest audience. ]
The Voice (with 6.8 million total viewers and a 0.7 rating) added eyeballs week-to-week while steady in the demo; Quantum Leap (2.5 mil/0.3) did same.
Leading out of a dipping Bachelor (3 mil/0.5), ABC's The Good Doctor's planted The Good Lawyer spinoff pilot is on track to match the drama's best audience of 2023 (3.4 mil) while posting its eighth straight 0.3 rating.
Fox's 9-1-1 (4.3 mil/0.5) dipped to series lows.
The Neighborhood (5.4 mil/0.5), Bob Loves Abishola (4.9 mil/0.4), NCIS (7 mil/0.4) and NCIS: Hawaii (5 mil/0.3) all dipped in the demo, though NCIS was up in audience and Hawaii outperformed its season average.
The CW's All American (572K/0.2) and Homecoming (400K/0.1) each dropped some eyeballs.
Monday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Rock the Block (HGTV): 1.313m/0.19
- Spring Baking Championship (Food): 938k/0.12
- Easter Basket Challenge (SP/Food): 614k/0.07
- People Puzzler (GSN): 527k/0.06
- Master Minds (GSN): 513k/0.04
- Switch
(GSN): 499k/0.06
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/14/2023 |
 |
Double the Alex
"Supermarket Stakeout", "Alex vs. America" Return April
From the Futon Critic |
Chef Alex Guarnaschelli's hit primetime series Alex vs. America and Supermarket Stakeout return to Food Network with brand-new seasons this spring. Alex vs. America kicks off its season on Sunday, April 16th at 8pm ET/PT with Alex competing against three elite James Beard award-winning chefs, followed by Supermarket Stakeout premiere on Tuesday, April 25th at 9pm ET/PT.
In Alex vs. America, acclaimed chef and Food Network staple Alex Guarnaschelli competes against three culinary superstars at the same time over two rounds. The competitors hail from across the United States but share the same mastery of a culinary genre, one that they have spent endless hours in their own kitchens perfecting and which will be tested in an effort to take down Alex. At the start of each battle, host Eric Adjepong presents Alex and the competitors with the culinary theme for their dishes. In the first round, the competitors can work together to select ingredients and even decide how much time goes on the clock. Each dish undergoes a blind tasting from two judges well-versed in the episodic theme, with only the top three chefs advancing to the next round and the least successful challenger sent home - even if it is Alex. The chef who wins the first round earns the right to select all the variables for the second culinary challenge, with the remaining chefs' final plates determining who comes out on top, winning bragging rights and a cash prize.
Set in pop-up kitchens outside local supermarkets, each Supermarket Stakeout episode begins with host Alex Guarnaschelli giving four contestants $500 apiece - their whole budget to buy ingredients for the three-round cooking competition. In round one, the chefs can purchase ingredients only by blindly ambushing unsuspecting customers outside the store and negotiating for their grocery bags without knowing the contents. In round two, competitors can only purchase groceries from a single shopper, but may look through the bags before negotiating the price. In the final round, competitors may purchase five ingredients total, but can approach as many shoppers as it takes to get what they need. After each themed cooking round, the least successful chef is eliminated, leaving two competitors going head-to-head in the final round, vying for a cash prize.
The FUton Critic |
posted 3/14/2023 |
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"I Can See Your Voice" Travels Through Asia
A Slew of Pickups
From Prensario Internacional |
CJ ENM's #1 most adapted format, is coming back with new seasons all across Asia in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
In the Philippines, the show's 8th season will first premiere on Kapamilya Channel, A2z on March 4th, followed by TV5 channel on March 11th. Regarding the new season in the Philppines, ABS-CBN head of non-scripted format Luis Andrada said, 'We are happy to bring another new season of fun and laughter to our audiences. The show continues to deliver strong ratings for its timeslot'.
Cambodia's season 3 will air in quarter 4 of 2023. 'I Can See Your Voice is an attractive family-friendly show loved by Cambodia. We are excited to see what new fun the new season will bring', said Eng Songliep, General Manager of Hang Meas HDTV.
Regarding the new season in Malaysia, Nini Yusof, Deputy CEO of Media Prima TV Networks, said 'The format has a strong branding and has been consistently reaching over 3 Million audiences weekly. We are pleased to be able to continue producing Season 6 of I Can See Your Voice Malaysia'.
Prensario Internacional |
posted 3/14/2023 |
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Lucky Seven for "CelebAbility"
ITV Renews Physical Comedy Game Show
From MSN |
ITV has confirmed the fate of a popular game show after six series on screens.
CelebAbility will return for a seventh series on ITV, the broadcaster has confirmed. In a casting call, they said: "Iain Stirling's CelebAbility is BACK for another series and is on the huntfor teams of 3 to take part. This physical, comedy game show sees teams of 3 go up against a squad of celebrities in a series of hilarious games with the chance to win some fab prizes."
MSN |
posted 3/14/2023 |

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More on "Lucky 13"
Pilot to Shoot in Salford
From The Sun |
A BRAND new game show is being piloted from the creators of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
The new series is due to record an episode in Manchester with a live studio audience.
Called Lucky 13, the new format sees 13 contestants answer 13 questions. They'll all be competing for a place on the 'hotspot' in a bid to win a cash jackpot. But in order to win anything, the contestants have to guess how many questions they managed to get correct.
American actor Kevin Bacon is executive producing the 60-minute show.
Adrian Wolfe, who is responsible for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and Lucky 13 said: "Whilst I would not wish to make a direct comparison between the two formats, there's an engaging simplicity and magnetic tension to 'Lucky 13' that I hope will keep viewers hooked and on the edge of their seats.
"It's perfect for adaptation across markets and languages and we can't wait to launch 'Lucky 13' around the world."
Meanwhile, Kevin Bacon said: "I played the game and I was hooked. It's not only about how much you know, but it's also about how much you think you know. It's addictive fun!"
The pilot episodes are due to be recorded Sunday 2nd & Monday 3rd April in Salford - the home of a number of shows such as BBC Breakfast and Coronation Street.
The Sun |
posted 3/14/2023 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Mark the Other Dates" |
- PROGRAMMING NOTE: Survivor season finale May 24 (The Futon Critic)
- John Cena re: Vince McMahon's allegations... "We all make mistakes" (TV Line)
- Fox calls on Gordon Ramsay to make bank (Variety)
- The Boulet Brothers celebrate "Halfway to Halloween" (Variety)
- The Bellas are dead, here are the Garcias. The Machine must be fed, all hail the Machine. (Variety)
- Michael Davies addresses The Mistake (Cinema Blend)
- Who's ready for the Richard Osman bus (Yahoo!)
- University Challenge is looking for writers (Timeout)
- CROWNING MOMENT OF AWESOME: The world's first game show for the hearing impaired (Positive.news)
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posted 3/14/2023 |
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"Queen of the Universe" Pushed to June
Paramount+'s Season 2 Series to Bow June 2 in the US, Canada
From The Futon Critic |
Paramount+ today revealed the new premiere date for the second season of QUEEN OF THE UNIVERSE.
Hosted by five-time BAFTA TV Award winner Graham Norton, the new season will premiere exclusively on the service Friday, June 2 in the U.S. and Canada. The series will additionally premiere on Saturday, June 3 in the U.K., Latin America, Italy, France and Germany.
QUEEN OF THE UNIVERSE follows the world's most talented drag queens as they battle it out for global domination, and countries go head-to-head spotlighting their top talent. Each episode will feature the world's fiercest queens as they debut a new musical performance in front of a live audience and the Pop Diva Panel of judges in the hopes of being crowned the "Queen of the Universe."
This season, global superstar Mel B joins the returning judges including platinum-selling recording artist, three-time Emmy-winning producer and judge of "RuPaul's Drag Race" Michelle Visage; multi-Emmy and GRAMMY(R) nominee Vanessa Williams; and American drag superstar Trixie Mattel.
The QUEEN OF THE UNIVERSE season two cast includes Aura Eternal (Palermo, Italy), Chloe V (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), Jazell Royale (Orlando, Fla., U.S.), Love Masisi (Amsterdam, Netherlands), Maxie (Manila, Philippines), Militia Scunt (San Francisco, Calif., U.S.), Miss Sistrata (Tel Aviv, Israel), Taiga Brava (Cancun, Mexico), Trevor Ashley (Sydney, Australia) and Viola (Coventry, England, U.K.).
Global drag icon and multi-Emmy Award winner RuPaul serves as an executive producer on the series, alongside MTV Entertainment Studios and World of Wonder, the producers of the Emmy Award-winning franchise "RuPaul's Drag Race."
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/13/2023 |
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FRIDAY: This Is Not a Rerun
CBS, Fox Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV ratings, Fox's SmackDown was No. 1 in the demo while CBS' Blue Bloods and Fire Country veritably tied for the night's biggest audience.
Friday Night SmackDown (2.1 mil/0.5) ticked down week-to-week.
SWAT (5 mil/0.4), Fire Country (5.46 mil/0.4) and Blue Bloods (5.47 mil/0.3) all dipped, with the latter matching series lows (set last Dec. 2) as it awaits word on renewal … or otherwise.
NBC's Lopez vs. Lopez (1.9 mil/0.2) was steady, while Grand Crew (1.1 mil/0.1) slipped to new lows.
ABC's Shark Tank (3.5 mil/0.3) hit what appears to be an all-time demo low.
The CW's Whose Line (520K/0.1) added some viewers.
Friday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)...
- RuPaul's Drag Race (MTV): 601k/0.21
- RuPaul's Drag Race Untucked (MTV): 284k/0.11
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/13/2023 |
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Logging Off...
Game Show Network to Shutter App
From Cord Cutters News |
Cord Cutters News is reporting that, starting in April 2023, the free Game Show Network app is going away, and they are directing everyone to cable TV.
In a statement posted on the website, Game Show Network announced this change: "Starting April 1, 2023, Game Show Network's streaming app will no longer be available. We know that many of you have enjoyed streaming your favorite game shows. While the app is no longer be accessible, you will still be able to enjoy all of your favorite game shows through your cable providers. Visit gameshownetwork.com to find which channel we're on using Channel Finder, and if you are looking for a specific game show, you can use our Content Finder Tool. Thank you for your loyalty and being part of our family."
No word yet on if this will affect the Game Show Central, a sister network that streams for free on Pluto TV, Plex, and the Roku Channel. The Game Show Central feed is different from the Game Show Network but carries some of the same shows.
Increasingly many cable and streaming services have been dropping networks that offer a free stream online. This is resulting in many networks cutting back on free access to their programming. This may be part of why GSN's parent company Sony has decided to end free access to its content. The second issue here is the cost of maintaining the app.
Cord Cutters News |
posted 3/13/2023 |
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People Watching "People"
Alex Horne, "Taskmaster" Team Pilot New Project for Four
From British Comedy Guide |
Alex Horne and the Taskmaster team are piloting a new comedy game show for Channel 4, British Comedy Guide reportsl.
Featuring audience interaction, People Watching has comedians trying to "match fun facts to the people in the room".
A casting call notice for the non-broadcast pilot, shot in London in January by Taskmaster director Andy Devonshire, asked prospective participants: "Is there more to you than meets the eye? If you've ever wondered what strangers think of you, now's the chance to find out!"
The People Watching format, produced by the program-making arm of Horne's management company, Avalon Television (Starstruck, Not Going Out), has been in development for at least two years.
A taster was made in the summer of 2021 with Mawaan Rizwan hosting, after the musical comic and Juice star appeared on Series 10 of Taskmaster the previous year. However, BCG understands that Rizwan did not host the recent run-through.
If commissioned for a series, People Watching would further solidify Horne's relationship with Channel 4.1
British Comedy Guide |
posted 3/13/2023 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Mark the Date" |
- Ryan Seacrest sets his finale date - April 14 (The Futon Critic)
- Mark Ballas evacuating the dance floor (Entertainment Weekly)
- Peta Murgatroyd says her husband Maks Chmerkovskiy would make a great judge (Reality TV World)
- Nick Cannon was cool with the joke Jimmy Kimmel made at the Oscars (Uproxx)
- Gary Lineker reinstated for "Match of the Day" (Fortune)
- Tesher to rap before the Junos on Feud Canada (Yahoo!)
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posted 3/13/2023 |
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Variety
KRISTIN BJORKLUND: 1955-2023
Emmy-Winning Producer of "Family Feud"
From Deadline |
Kristin Bjorklund, a longtime member of the Family Feud game show producing team, died in Phoenix, Arizona, on March 5 of sepsis after undergoing a kidney transplant. She was 67.
Her death was announced by her friend Diane Hamilton.
Starting as a production assistant when Richard Dawson hosted, Bjorklund had risen to co-executive producer by the Steve Harvey era. She also worked on the show when Ray Combs and Louie Anderson hosted.
Born in Mineola, New York on July 8, 1955, Bjorklund began her career at game show producer Goodson-Todman Productions after graduating from Dartmouth. She started working for Family Feud in 1982, first as a production assistant for the main show and its spinoff All-Star Family Feud, and then from 1988-94 as associate producer for Family Feud.
She also filled in for Marjorie Goodson as the prize model on Classic Concentration, where she served as an assistant crewmember, too; appeared as a substitute card dealer on Card Sharks, hosted by Jim Perry, in 1981; and was a replacement "Barker's Beauty" on the Bob Barker-hosted The Price Is Right in 1983-84.
Bjorklund was a co-executive producer of Family Feud from 2003 to 2023 and Celebrity Family Feud from 2015 to 2020. She shared a Daytime Emmy Award in 2019 when Feud was named Outstanding Game Show.
"Family Feud" co-executive producer, Brian Hawley wrote "Kristin Bjorklund was my coworker, my buddy, my sister from another mister. She could be feisty, strong-willed and oh-so-anal, but she had a fun, raunchy sense of humor and there was nothing better than hearing her laugh" Hawley added, "When my life was a mess or my house was falling apart, I called Kristin. Without Kristin's friendship, my first few years working in Atlanta wouldn't have been tolerable."
Survivors include nephew Erik Bjorklund and niece Annika Bjorklund.
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety |
posted 3/10/2023 |
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Welcome to the Wheel... Online
Wheel of Fortune Online Casino Opens
From PlayUSA |
While New Jersey residents may not have the pleasure of meeting Wheel of Fortune's Pat Sajak or Vanna White, fans of the hit television show will soon get the chance to play the popular game in the palm of their hands.
On Wednesday, Mar. 8, BetMGM announced the launch of a Wheel of Fortune Online Casino in New Jersey. In association with IGT (NYSE: IGT), Wheel of Fortune is the first brand-led online casino in North America. But it certainly won't be the last.
Wheel of Fortune, which is currently airing its 40th season, is a staple in most American households. The Wheel of Fortune-themed slot games has been in casinos for over two decades. But this expansion marks the first time the brand-themed game hits the digital gambling world.
Adam Greenblatt, Chief Executive Officer, BetMGM said: "We are thrilled to bring Wheel of Fortune Online Casino to players in New Jersey where they can now play for real money and experience the excitement of the beloved game show on their phones. We have a great alliance with Wheel of Fortune and IGT and look forward to offering our players innovative and diverse selections of gaming options."
Suzanne Prete, Executive Vice President of Game Shows, Sony Pictures Television commented: "Over the last 40 years, the Wheel of Fortune brand has been brought to life in a diverse range of products, including IGT's extremely successful Wheel of Fortune slots. Now we're excited to see BetMGM build on that success and take an innovative approach to bring the game to more players by launching the brand's first online casino in the US."
Enrico Drago, CEO Digital & Betting, IGT, added: "IGT's Wheel of Fortune slots have been entertaining players for decades as the most successful slot theme of all time. We are incredibly excited to partner with BetMGM on the evolution of this celebrated theme and witness it break new ground to become the first US brand-led online casino where players can enjoy their favorite IGT Wheel of Fortune slots games."
PlayUSA
World Casino Directory
Gambling Insider
Casino.org
Gaming Intelligence |
posted 3/10/2023 |
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THURSDAY: Lower Level
CBS Wins
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' Young Sheldon led Thursday in both total viewers and in the demo.
Young Sheldon (with 7.4 million total viewers and a 0.7 rating) and Ghosts (6.5 mil/0.6) both rose in the demo, while So Help Me Todd (4.5 mil/0.3) and the conclusion of CSI: Vegas' Silver Ink Killer arc (3.3 mil/0.3) were steady.
ABC's Station 19 (3.9 mil/0.5) and Grey's Anatomy (3.2 mil/0.4) both added a handful of eyeballs while steady in the demo. Alaska Daily dipped to an audience low (2.5 mil) while posting its fourth straight 0.2 rating.
Fox's Next Level Chef (1.8 mil/0.3) ticked down, Animal Control (1.3 mil/0.2) saw its first demo decline while sliding in audience for a third straight week, and Call Me Kat (1.2 mil/0.2) was steady.
Thursday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Battlebots (Discovery): 656k/0.11
- Top Chef: World All-Stars (SP/Bravo): 606k/0.14
- Beat Bobby Flay (Food): 594k/0.10
- People Puzzler (GSN): 462k/0.05
- Switch (GSN): 461k/0.07
- Master Minds (GSN): 454k/0.03
- Ex on the Beach (MTV): 113k/0.06
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/10/2023 |
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Get Blitzed!
Armoza, Gamechanger to Bring "Bingo Blitz" to MipTV
From C21 Media |
Israeli distributor Armoza Formats will shop new gameshow format Bingo Blitz, produced in partnership with TV technology company Gamechanger, at next month's MipTV market.
In the show, two contestants answer trivia questions in 60-second periods. For every correct answer, a number is drawn from a bingo machine. Every number earns more money, and if the contestant scores a 'bingo,' they win cash. Armoza and Gamechanger have previously partnered on gameshow Family Piggy Bank for Portugal's RTP1.
C21 Media
Todo TV News
Realscreeny |
posted 3/10/2023 |
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Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Kicking It Old School" |
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posted 3/10/2023 |
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CBS
Moving On...
"The Price Is Right" Among Shows Moving as TV City Remodels
From TV Line |
It's the end of an era for The Price Is Right. After taping at Los Angeles' famed Television City compound since its premiere in 1972, the classic CBS game show will relocate to a new facility next season.
Per Deadline, a looming $1.25 billion renovation at Television City will force TPIR to move to Haven Studios in nearby-ish Glendale when it begins production on Season 52 later this summer.
In addition, it's understood that Let's Make a Deal, which tapes in Sylmar, will also make the move to Haven (in which Fremantle is an investor with a long-term lease).
"In light of Hackman Capital Partners' plans to undergo a major renovation at Television City, the time has come to move television's longest running game show, The Price Is Right, into a new home," said Suzanne Lopez, COO of Fremantle (which produces TPIR), in a statement. "While we bid a fond farewell to this cultural landmark, we are excited to say that we will be moving into a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility at Haven Studios. We can't wait to have our fans 'Come On Down' to this new facility when we begin production on the next season this summer."
The Price is Right launched with host Bob Barker on Sept. 4, 1972. Barker passed the emcee baton to current headliner Drew Carey in 2007.
Other series that currently shoot at Television City including CBS soaps The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful, CBS' soon-to-conclude Late Late Show with James Corden, ABC's American Idol and Disney+'s Dancing With the Stars are finalizing their own arrangements.
TV Line
Parade
Deadline
Daytime Confidential
Talentrecap
ComicBook |
posted 3/9/2023 |
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Distractify
ROBERT BLAKE: 1933-2023
Dutch Producer Bought Lingo, Shopped It Worldwide
From Deadline |
Robert Blake, the controversial actor who won a Lead Actor Emmy for Baretta and starred in films including In Cold Blood and Lost Highway before a murder trial ended his career, died today of heart disease in Los Angeles. He was 89.
His niece, Noreen Austin, confirmed the news. Blake's long career ranged from a childhood stint in "Our Gang" at age 5 through major films and television before he was acquitted of murder in the 2001 death of his wife, Bonny Lee Bakley.
Over the course of 60+ years of working in Hollywood, Blake appeared in such classic films as Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948) alongside Humphrey Bogart; In Cold Blood (1967) with John Forsythe; as well as a range of studio Westerns using the stage name of "Bobby Blake" during the 1940s. His final feature film role was in Lost Highway (1997), directed by David Lynch.
In television, Blake was best known for his role as streetwise undercover detective Tony Baretta in Baretta, which aired for four seasons on ABC from 1975-78. He was an Emmy Award For Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 1975 and was nominated again for the role in 1977. He also earned two other Emmy noms during his career, for lead actor in the miniseries Blood Feud (1983) and Judgment Day: The John List Story (1993).
In game shows, he appeared with his first wife on Tattletales.
Baretta was created by prolific TV writer-creator Stephen J. Cannell and featured the memorable theme song "Keep Your Eye on the Sparrow," sung by Sammy Davis Jr. It was a spinoff from another ABC crime drama, Toma, that debuted in 1973. But the show's star, Tony Mustane, grew weary of the weekly production grind, so ABC brass decided to recast Blake in the role and retitle the series Toma Starring Robert Blake. But a few format tweaks later, Baretta was born.
The series debuted as a replacement show in January 1975 and finished its first season in the Top 25 among primetime shows. It leapt into the Top 10 for Season 2 — fueled by the lead character's catchphrases including "And that's the name of that tune" and "You can take that to the bank" — but would be canceled in 1978 after 80-plus episodes.
Several years later, Blake was cast as the lead of NBC drama Hell Town. He played Father Noah Rivers, aka Hardstep, who pretty much was Baretta in priestly garb, trying to bring hope to the East L.A. parish of St. Dominic's. The series lasted only a handful of episodes in 1985.
On television, fans also watched Blake on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, where he was a recurring guest who appeared in funny skits with longtime friend Johnny Carson and other featured celebrities. He is also remembered as a pitchman in commercials for STP, Geico and others.
Bakley, Blake's second wife, was found shot to death outside of Vitello's restaurant in the San Fernando Valley in 2001, after the couple had dined there. Blake told police that he had gone back into the restaurant to retrieve a handgun he'd left on the floor of their booth. Blake was charged with Bakley's murder in 2002, along with solicitation of murder, conspiracy and special circumstances of lying in wait. But a jury found him not guilty of the crimes in 2005 after a widely watched three-month trial saw Blake weep into the shoulder of his lawyer after the jury acquitted him.
In his later years, Blake wrote his memoir, The Life of a Rascal, and lived quietly in the Los Angeles area.
A private memorial service will be held to honor his life. In lieu of flowers, his family requests that donations be made to City of Hope.
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
The Wrap |
posted 3/9/2023 |
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AD
HARRY de WINTER: 1949-2023
Dutch Producer Bought Lingo, Shopped It Worldwide
From Nos |
TV producer & host Harry de Winter has passed away at the age of 73. He had been suffering from mesothelioma for several years and passed away yesterday.
De Winter was best known to the general public as a host of the long-running musical talk show Wintertijd. He was also the founder of one of the first production companies in the Netherlands, IDTV.
"Everyone once worked at the broadcaster," he said. "John de Mol worked at the TROS. In America I had seen independent companies making television. I wanted to try that here too."
Another important achievement of his is that he acquired the rights to the American game show Lingo in 1989. That had failed there during the 1980s, but became a great success in the Netherlands and abroad, because De Winter resold the format to many other countries. He would return the format to America in 2002, serving as its executive producer on GSN from 2002 to 2004.
Television maker Bert van der Veer ranks him as a producer on the level of John de Mol and Joop van den Ende. "But Harry de Winter was more versatile," he says on NPO Radio 1. He mainly remembers De Winter from award-winning drama series, such as Oud Geld and Pleidooi.
In 1977 he founded the production company IDTV, which in the early years mainly produced pop programs such as Je Ziet Maar, Clipparade and recordings of live concerts. In the 1990s, the company grew thanks to successful programs such as Lingo, Taxi, Oud Geld, Pleidooi and Wie is de Mol? to become the second largest production company in the Netherlands.
NOS (in Dutch)
MSN |
posted 3/9/2023 |
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WEDNESDAY: A Midweek Split
CBS Wins the Night Absent #OneChicago, Fox Takes the Demo
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with NBC's #OneChicago in rerun mode: CBS' Survivor and Fox's The Masked Singer tied for the Wednesday demo win, with the former also delivering the night's largest audience.
Survivor (with 4.8 million viewers and a 0.6 rating) built on its premiere audience but dipped in the demo. The already-renewed Lingo (2 mil/0.2) returned to series lows, while True Lies (2.5 mil/0.2) slipped 22 and 37 percent from its premiere, now having a softer lead-in.
The Masked Singer (3.9 mil/0.6) was steady. Farmer Wants a Wife (2.4 mil/0.3) sharply improved on Special Forces' average audience while pretty much matching its demo number.
The CW's The Flash (580K/0.1) rose to a season high in viewers while steady in the demo, whereas "bubble" show Kung Fu (390K/0.1) dipped just 5% in viewers/was steady in the demo with its season (?) finale.
ABC's The Conners (3.6 mil/0.4), The Goldbergs (2.4 mil/0.3), Abbott (2.7 mil/0.4) and A Million Little Things (1.8 mil/0.2) all added eyeballs while steady in the demo. Not Dead Yet (2.1 mil/0.2), however, dipped for a second straight week, to new lows.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Guy's Grocery Games (Food): 559k/0.11
- Master Minds (GSN): 463k/0.03
- People Puzzler (GSN): 442k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 431k/0.06
- Moonshiners: Master Distiller (Discovery): 428k/0.08
- Power Slap: Road to the Title (SF/TBS): 220k/0.05
- The Challenge: World Championship (P/MTV): 213k/0.10
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/2/2023 |
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BBC One Heads to the "Finish Line"
New Quiz Show Commissioned
From Seat42F |
BBC One Daytime has commissioned brand new quiz show The Finish Line to air later this year.
Made and filmed in Belfast, Northern Ireland by Potato (part of ITV Studios) and Nice One Productions, this competitive show will see contestants battle it out on an iconic racetrack set, as they speed along the studio floor in a series of thrilling quick-fire, quiz races – and all that matters is they cross the finish line.
Filming will start later this month in Northern Ireland and applications for contestants are open until 10 March 2023.
BBC Daytime commissioning editor Alex McLeod comments: "I am so excited that we are bringing a brand new quiz format to the schedule. This new show will be packed full of excitement, anticipation and will have audiences on the edge of their seats – and we're chomping at the bit to announce who the hosts will be!"
Michael Kelpie, MD of Potato and Executive Producer, said: " It's such an exciting time for the team behind The Finish Line, and we're very much looking forward to working closely with the BBC over the coming months as we continue to expand our slate of premium quiz show formats."
Chris Jones, Founder of Nice One Productions commented: "We love working with BBC Daytime and this new series partnership with Michael and Adam in Potato is brilliant news for us and the growing quiz talent base in Northern Ireland."
Seat42F
C21 Media |
posted 3/9/2023 |
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TUESDAY: NBC Takes Full Advantage
"Night Court", "The Voice" Help Peacock to the Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, with CBS and ABC in rerun mode: NBC's Night Court and NBC's The Voice tied for the demo win, with the latter also copping Tuesday's biggest audience.
Night Court (with 3.8 million viewers and a 0.5 rating) grew in audience while steady in the demo. American Auto drew its best audience in five episodes (2.2 mil) while posting its fifth straight 0.3 rating. The Voice (5 mil/0.5) was down sharply from Monday's premiere, after which That's My Jam returned to 3 mil and a 0.4.
Fox's 9-1-1: Lone Star (4 mil/0.4) added eyeballs but dipped in the demo. Accused rose to its best audience in three episodes (2.1 mil/0.3) and also ticked up in the demo.
The CW's yet-to-be-renewed The Winchesters ended its freshman run with 454,000 viewers, down 3 percent from last week's prelim audience despite decreased competition, and its 12th 0.1 rating of the 13-episode season.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Chopped (Food): 703k/0.13
- Superchef Grudge Match (Food): 587k/0.12
- Master Minds (GSN): 551k/0.04
- People Puzzler (GSN): 454k/0.05
- Switch (GSN): 448k/0.05
- Wipeout (R/TeenNick): 59k/0.02
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily
Deadline |
posted 3/9/2023 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Reunited and It Feels So Good" |
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posted 3/9/2023 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "No, Dude, Just... No... Part 2" |
- Nick Cannon's work? Part of Kevin Hart's "Celebrity Prank Wars" (The Futon Critic)
- Pat Sharp was anything but in making a joke (TRIGGER WARNING: sexual language) (Deadline)
- Trixie Mattel, Katya celebrate 200 (TV Line)
- Anthony Anderson, Cedric the Entertainer launch a BBQ brand... and A&E are there (Variety)
- RuPaul call drag queens under threat "the Marines of the Queer Movement" (Variety)
- VIDEO WALL: This Blind audition... is one for the history books (Entertainment Weekly)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Gail Simmons (Entertainment Weekly)
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posted 3/8/2023 |
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NBCUniversal
Rutledge Wood Drives "Hot Wheels"
"Ultimate Challenge" Coming to NBC
From NextTV |
NBC has ordered the series Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, a car makeover competition series based on the toy cars. Rutledge Wood will host and judge. There will be 10 episodes.
The show will see Hot Wheels superfans turn a toy car from their past into the life-sized Hot Wheels of their dreams. The winner will see their car become an official Hot Wheels die-cast car.
"Everyone remembers their first car, the life experiences they had and the friends who came along for the ride. Hot Wheels is a legendary brand that has created a space for imaginations to run free," Corie Henson, executive VP, unscripted programming, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, said. "Our prolific partners at Endemol Shine North America and Mattel have created larger-than-life family viewing with edge and humor all led by car enthusiast Rutledge Wood, whose creativity, credibility and passion for Hot Wheels makes him the perfect person to drive this wild competition."
Each episode will invite two Hot Wheels lovers into the Chrome Zone to transform an ordinary toy vehicle into an extraordinary Hot Wheels creation. Working alongside a team of automotive wizards known as "The Car Pool," the contestants will create their designs in decked-out garages. Judges include Hertrech ("Hert") Eugene Jr. and Dalal Elsheikh. The winner of each episode will take home $25,000 and the chance to get into the finale, where three lucky finalists will transform another car in hopes of winning $50,000 and the opportunity to have their design made into an official Hot Wheels die-cast car.
Wood covered NASCAR for Speed TV and NBC Sports, and reported from the Olympics in 2016, 2018 and 2021. He has hosted the game show Floor Is Lava and American BBQ Showdown on Netflix and Southern and Hungry on Cooking Channel. He was also a host on Top Gear USA for BBC and History Channel.
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge is developed and produced by Endemol Shine North America in association with Workerbee under license from Mattel Inc. Executive producers are showrunner Tim Warren, along with Andy Thomas, Sharon Levy, DJ Nurre and Michael Heyerman from Endemol Shine North America; Rick Murray and Chris Hale from Workerbee (a Banijay UK Company); and Fred Soulie and Phil Breman from Mattel Television.
NextTV
The Hollywood Reporter
Deadline
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/7/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
SYNDIES: Week 22
Results for the Week Ending March 1
From TV Newscheck |
There was a slight reshuffle at the top of the syndication chart for the week ending March 1.
Jeopardy hung onto first place despite dipping 5% to a 5.5 live-plus-same-day national Nielsen household rating, while Family Feud and Wheel of Fortune flipped-flopped. Feud took second place with a 2% increase to 5.3, and Wheel did the mirror image with a 2% breather to a third-place 5.2.
Turning to access time periods, Jeopardy was the game show standout, edging up 3% to a 6.0; Wheel of Fortune followed with a 2% uptick to a 5.5; while Family Feud featured a 2% improvement to a new season high 5.4.
In the household rating rankings that follow, % change is from the previous week; * indicates a new season-high rating; ** indicates a new season low; NC indicates no change from the previous week; NA mean not applicable.
GAME SHOWS:
-
Jeopardy (CMV) 6.0 +3%
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Wheel of Fortune (CMV) 5.5 +2%
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Family Feud (Debmar-Mercury/FMNA) 5.4 +2%*
- 25 Words or Less (Fox First Run) 0.8 +14%
- You Bet Your Life with Jay Leno (Fox First Run) 0.8 +14%
- Pictionary (CMV): 0.5 NC
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Funny You Should Ask (Allen Media Group) 0.4 NC
TV Newscheck
Daytime Confidential
NextTV
Soap Opera Network
|
posted 3/7/2023 |
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MONDAY: The Voice Back... on Top
NBC Wins Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, NBC's The Voice led Monday in both total viewers and in the demo, with CBS in rerun mode.
The Voice opened Season 23 with 6.3 million total viewers and a 0.7 demo rating, right on par with its fall opener. Leading out of that, Quantum Leap inched up to its best audience since Jan. 2 (2.1 million viewers) while posting its fifth 0.3 rating out of the past six episodes.
Fox's 9-1-1 returned from its three-month break to 4.8 million viewers and a 0.6 rating, down just a smidge from its fall finale. Fantasy Island followed with a typical 2 mil/0.2.
ABC's The Bachelor (2.9 mil/0.6) was steady. The Good Doctor delivered its best audience in four episodes (3.3 million) and its seventh straight 0.3 rating
Monday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Rock the Block (SP/HGTV): 1.233m/0.17
- Spring Baking Championship (SP/Food): 1.008m/0.15
- Easter Basket Challenge (SP/Food): 600k/0.07
- Master Minds (GSN): 568k/0.04
- People Puzzler (GSN): 492k/0.05
- Switch
(GSN): 476k/0.07
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/7/2023 |
 |

Hot 102.7
MARK PILGRIM: 1969-2023
Radio, TV Host Fronted "Big Brother SA"
From News 24 |
Veteran radio and TV presenter Mark Pilgrim has died after battling stage four lung cancer. He was 53.
"It was with great sadness that I share this news," Lloyd Madurai, managing director at HOT 102.7FM said in an online statement.
"Our hero and brother and much loved radio personality Mark Pilgrim lost his battle with cancer this morning at 10:45," Madurai said in a Facebook post published an hour later.
"He fought valiantly to the very end. Mark passed peacefully with his fiancé Adrienne at home. They were together for his last breath.
"The family thank you for being part of his journey. For loving him and for celebrating him and supporting him always. Mark will be greatly missed by all. May his soul rest in peace."
Pilgrim hosted "Big Brother South Africa" in 2001, followed by a stint as host of "Big Brother Africa" in 2003.
Pilgrim was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in March 2022, which he revealed in June had spread to his femur, the base of his spine and lymph nodes.
Following his diagnosis, the radio presenter launched a YouTube video series chronicling his recovery journey. "This section of my Youtube channel is for anyone who is going through cancer or is supporting someone who is. It documents my journey and desire to find positivity," reads the description of the vlog titled Mark's Cancer Journey – 2022.
In July, Pilgrim revealed during his seventh round of chemotherapy treatment that his latest scans had shown "a further significant reduction in the tumours (in size and intensity)". A month later, the TV personality revealed that after a 45-minute radiation therapy session, "the tumours in the leg and spine are hopefully gone."
Pilgrim suffered a collapsed lung in September, leading to multiple related issues. In October and November, the journalist underwent multiple medical procedures to address the collapsed lung, which saw him spend weeks in the ICU recovering. He was discharged from hospital in time to ring in the new year with his fiancée, Adrienne Watkins.
Pilgrim was a presenter on Hot 102.7FM from Monday to Saturday at the time of his death. Due to his recent health setbacks, however, he had to step away from the mic.
Pilgrim is survived by his two daughters, Tayla-Jean, 12 and Alyssa, 10 – who he shares with ex-wife Nicole Torres – and Watkins.
The father of two was diagnosed and beat aggressive Stage 3 testicular cancer in 1988.
NEws24
IOL
NEws24
The South African |
posted 3/7/2023 |
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Greg James to Chart "Rise & Fall"
New UK Format from "Traitors" Creator Studio Lambert
From Deadline |
BBC Radio 1 presenter Greg James is to host Channel 4 reality series Rise and Fall from The Traitors maker Studio Lambert.
James hosts BBC Radio 1 Breakfast, one of the most-listened-to UK radio shows, and Rise and Fall represents one of his few TV hosting gigs.
He will oversee the action on Channel 4's latest big entertainment bet, in which 16 ordinary British people from all walks of life begin the game as equals but soon find themselves either in a position of power as a Ruler or as part of the powerless as a Grafter. While the Rulers live in an opulent penthouse, the Grafters must survive in basic conditions in the basement. And much like life, those in power will be responsible for making decisions that affect those who have none.
"I've been waiting a long time for a show like this to come along that I can get stuck into and be the ringleader of," said James. "It's an amazingly mad idea and the contestants are going to make some incredible TV."
Deadline
TDPel Media |
posted 3/7/2023 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "No, Dude, Just... No." |
- Nick Cannon announces new game show "Who's Having My Baby?" (Entertainment Tonight) ... which is a work (Variety)
- The Challenge players start to arrive... egos intact (Entertainment Weekly)
- Bruce Perrault invited to return to "Survivor" (Reality TV World)
- WHY THE BLEEP IS THIS NEWS?: Steve Harvey is still alive (HITC)
- Mayim Bialik's hidden talent goes viral, son lashes out. (Newsweek) Ken Jennings' hidden talent goes viral... he writes a book (Good Housekeeping)
- LeVar Burton sees J! snub as a blessing in disguise (New Yokr Post)
- MAsterChef Junior takes home an Orange Blimp (Deadline)
- BeBe Zahara Benet, Shea Coulee united for NUBIA: A Brave New World tour (Entertainment Weekly)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Robin Ashbrook (Deadline)
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posted 3/7/2023 |
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Netflix's Answer to "Survivor"
Catch "Outlast" Friday
From Collider |
Netflix has released the first trailer for its unscripted survival series Outlast, which will premiere March 10.
The new format of the competition will see "16 lone wolves battle each other and the elements for a chance to win $1,000,000." The catch here is no one can work alone and there is no voting out someone — rather, the only way to get out is to give up, as the tagline of the series aptly summarize: "the enemy isn't mother nature, it's human nature."
The trailer sees the contestants weathering a chilly fall in Alaska and putting their survival skills to the test. The rules are easy: "you have to survive as a team, or you go home with nothing." The clip sees various moments from the upcoming series with bonds and friendships forming, as well as people going up against each other and verbally battling it out. Many are going to give up as we see them shooting flares, which seems like a sign of backing out.
Collider
PopGeeks
LEisure Byte
TV Insider |
posted 3/6/2023 |
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Claire Byrne to Search for "Ireland's Smartest"
RTE Greenlights New Quiz for Broadcaster Legend
From Irish Mirror |
RTÉ's Claire Byrne is due to return to Irish TV screens after it was confirmed that the presenter has begun filming for a brand-new quiz show.
The Laois native will be the face of quiz show 'Ireland's Smartest', which is being filmed in Virgin Media's studios in Ballymount, RSVP Live reported.
It will mark the 47-year-old broadcaster's return to television, after Claire Byrne Live finished filming last May.
The Sunday World reported that she is spending this weekend filming the new show at Virgin Media Studios. Despite this, the show will still be broadcast on RTÉ.
Ireland's Smartest will be a quiz show centred around general knowledge. "
Claire started recording on Friday afternoon the series, and spent most of yesterday also in the studio – she wraps up her current batch of shows today," The Sunday World said.
Irish Mirror
Evoke |
posted 3/6/2023 |
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"Bar" Rescued
USA Orders Another Round of "Barmageddon"
From the Futon Critic |
Fresh off a hugely successful inaugural season, USA Network's "Barmageddon" is coming back for a second round.
Blake Shelton and Carson Daly's "Barmageddon" was USA's best series premiere in almost three years in total viewers and strongest in more than two years in the 18-49 demo. In 7-day delayed viewing, the "Barmageddon" premiere was the best in USA history for an unscripted series.
Season one featured celebrity competitors Gwen Stefani, Sheryl Crow, Trace Adkins, Kane Brown, Lil Rel Howrey, Malin Akerman, and more going head-to-head in a series of classic bar games with a twist, including Air Cannon Cornhole, Keg Curling, Drunken Axe Hole, and Sharts ("Shelton Darts").
Season two promises a fresh crop of iconic celebrity favorites letting loose and a new set of outrageous games, upping the antics and intensifying the competition. With no shortage of heckling from Blake and Carson in front of a rowdy crowd, everyone is once again invited to the party at Ole Red Nashville.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
NextTV
Talentrecap |
posted 3/6/2023 |
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SUNDAY: Split First
CBS, ABC Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, ABC's American Idol led Sunday in the demo, while CBS' 60 Minutes clocked in with the night's biggest audience.
Leading out of 60 Minutes (which drew 6.7 million total viewers and a 0.5 demo rating) — and pending possible adjustment due to a sliiiightly delayed start — The Equalizer (5.2 mil/0.4), East New York (4.7 mil/0.3) and NCIS: Los Angeles (4.2 mil/0.3) were all down a tenth in the demo, though East New York is looking at its best total audience since Jan. 15.
Leading out of Dateline rerun on NBC, Magnum P.I. (3.5 mil/0.2) and The Blacklist (1.7 mil/0.1) both dipped to new demo lows.
AFV (4.9 mil/0.6) and Idol (5.4 mil/0.7) were both steady, while The Company You Keep (2.2 mil/0.2) dipped.
Fox's The Simpsons (940K/0.2), The Great North (670K/0.2), Bob's Burgers (760K/0.2) and Family Guy (840K/0.3) each dropped some eyeballs.
Sunday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49) are forthcoming.
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/6/2023 |
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FRIDAY: Split Second
CBS, Fox Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV ratings, Fox's Friday Night SmackDown was (as usual) No. 1 in the demo, while CBS' Blue Bloods (as it often does) copped the largest audience.
NBC's Lopez vs. Lopez (with 1.9 million total viewers and a 0.2 demo rating) tied season lows. With its Season 2 premiere/move to a new night, Grand Crew (1.1 mil/0.1) returned far below both its freshman averages (1.6 mil/0.3) and what Young Rock was averaging in this time slot (1.4 mil/0.3).
S.W.A.T. (5 mil/0.3) was up in viewers/steady in the demo, Blue Bloods (6 mil/0.4) was steady in the demo and is looking at possibly its best audience since Jan. 13, and Fire Country (5.8 mil/0.4) dipped to its lowest tallies of 2023.
SmackDown (2.3 mil/0.5) dipped.
ABC's Shark Tank (3.6 mil/0.4) dipped.
The CW's Whose Line Is It Anyway? (520K/0.1) dropped some eyeballs.
Friday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)...
- RuPaul's Drag Race (MTV): 663k/0.24
- RuPaul's Drag Race Untucked (MTV): 182k/0.06
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/6/2023 |
 |

Blu-Ray.com
SARA LANE: 1949-2023
Actor Turned Announcer for ITV
From the Hollywood REporter |
Sara Lane, who portrayed the orphaned frontier girl Elizabeth Grainger for four seasons of the NBC drama The Virginian, has died. She was 73.
Lane died Friday at her home in Napa, California, after a six-year battle with breast cancer, her husband, Jon Scott, told The Hollywood Reporter.
Lane joined the 1890s Western for the start of its retooled fifth season in September 1966 alongside two other new castmembers: Charles Bickford, who played her grandfather, John Grainger, the new owner of the Shiloh Ranch, and Don Quine, who portrayed her older brother, Stacey Grainger.
She appeared on 105 episodes of the Wyoming Territory-set series through March 1970, with James Drury's title character and Doug McClure's Trampas looking after Elizabeth. The Virginian aired one final season without her. The oldest of three kids, Susan Russell Lane was born in New York on March 12, 1949. Her parents, Rusty Lane (The Harder They Fall) and Sara Anderson, were actors. She and her family moved west when she was 12, and she attended Santa Monica High School.
In game shows, Lane was featured on a week of "The Hollywood Squares" in 1969.
The Hollywood Reporter
Los Angeles Times |
posted 2/28/2023 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Self Care is Best Care" |
|
posted 3/6/2023 |
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THURSDAY: Steady as She Goes
CBS Wins
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' Young Sheldon led this Thursday both in total viewers and in the demo.
ABC's Station 19 (3.8 million total viewers and a 0.5 demo rating, per Nielsen finals) was steady, while Grey's Anatomy (3.1 mil/0.4) matched its audience low and also dipped in the demo. Back from a three-and-a-half month break (!), Alaska Daily (2.8 mil/0.2) was right on part with its fall finale (2.5 mil/0.2) and its fall averages (2.9 mil/0.2).
Young Sheldon (7.6 mil/0.6, read post mortems) was steady in the demo, Ghosts (6.5 mil/0.5) and Todd (4.6 mil/0.3) dipped, and CSI: Vegas (3.2 mil/0.3) ticked up.
The CW's Walker (620K/0.1) hit an audience low, while fellow "bubble" drama Walker Independence (441K/0.0) matched lows with its finale.
Fox's Next Level Chef (2 mil/0.4), Animal Control (1.5 mil/0.3) and Call Me Kat (1.2 mil/0.2) were all steady.
Thursday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Battlebots (Discovery): 647k/0.10
- Master Minds (GSN): 509k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 445k/0.05
- People Puzzler (GSN): 422k/0.04
- Ex on the Beach (SP/MTV): 108k/0.05
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/3/2023 |
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Deal or No Deal to Return to South Africa
Expresso Presenter Katlego Maboe to Host
From News24 |
SABC 3's Expresso presenter Katlego Maboe has been selected to host the revival of Deal or No Deal SA on SABC 1 from 6 March.
Maboe returned to Expresso's presenter ensemble last year following cheating and abuse allegations made by his former partner Monique Muller.
The half-hour Deal or No Deal SA episodes will see contestants choose which of 20 boxes to open to win possible cash prizes ranging from R1 to R250 000, on weekdays at 19:30.
Repeats will run on weekdays on SABC 3 at 17:30. Primedia decided to revive the game show, which lasted for two seasons on M-Net (DStv 101) in 2007, and a version for Southern African countries, which was carried by MultiChoice for DStv subscribers outside of South Africa.
"We are delighted to offer this exhilarating, upbeat show to our audiences," says Lala Tuku, SABC head of local content. "While we will be using the winning format that has seen Deal or No Deal become a global broadcasting phenomenon, the show will feature new innovations and be distinctively South African. Every day, a contestant will have an opportunity to win up to R250 000. With an electric energy that makes dreams come true in an instant, this is television entertainment at its best."
News24
IOL |
posted 3/3/2023 |
 |

Stellify Media/ITV
Final Answer
ITV: Next Season of "Millionaire" Will Be The Last
From Variety |
The next season of Jeremy Clarkson's "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" on ITV will be its last on the British broadcaster, with "no future commitments" in the works.
ITV boss Carolyn McCall tells Variety that the forthcoming season of the game show, which is currently in production, will be Clarkson's final foray as host. The "Grand Tour" presenter has been at the center of a media firestorm over his December column in British tabloid The Sun. In the piece, which is currently being investigated by British media regulator IPSO, Clarkson said the Duchess of Sussex should be forced to parade the streets naked with "lumps of excrement thrown at her."
"We have a contract. We're contracted to this [season], so we will do that," said McCall. "And then we have no future commitments. And we haven't made any statements about that."
When asked whether ITV may be in discussions about potentially continuing the show, which is produced by Sony Pictures Television's Stellify Media, down the road, McCall simply shrugged. (Sony declined to comment on this story.)
"Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" first launched in the U.K. on ITV in 1998, and went on to become one of the most famous quiz show formats ever created. The show aired with original host Chris Tarrant right up until 2014, when it was rested. In 2018, ITV revived the series with Clarkson at the helm. The presenter has hosted eight seasons of the show to date, with the most recent run airing last summer.
Variety
Sky News
The AV Club
The Times
LADBlible
Digital Spy
LADBible
Extra.ie |
posted 3/2/2023 |
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CNN/Getty Images
Amazon Orders "Twin Love"
Nikki & Brie Bella to Host
From Variety |
Amazon Studios has ordered "Twin Love," a new dating competition series from ITV Entertainment, hosted by WWE Hall of Famers Brie Bella and Nikki Bella.
"Twin Love" is set to premiere on Prime Video this summer and simultaneously on Amazon Freevee in the U.S. and UK. Simon Thomas, Bernie Schaeffer, Kenny Rosen and Jessica Nahmias serve as executive producers.
Per the official logline, "'Twin Love' is a social dating experiment that explores the love lives of identical twins. Ten sets of twins will be split up and placed into two houses of 'identical' casts, where they'll begin a unique and compelling search for love. With double the fun and drama, the series will discover if their inherent similarities extend to their romantic desires. When separated from their twin brothers and sisters — some for the first time ever — will they pursue the same identical partners? Or will their choices be dramatically different?"
Lauren Anderson, head of AVOD original content and unscripted programming at Amazon Studios, notes that the experiment, based on a format created by ITV Studios Netherlands, is like no other reality show on TV — and the Bella sisters make the perfect hosts for the format.
"Thanks to Brie and Nikki Bella, for bringing their personal experience to this series; to our cast, for their openness, playfulness, and willingness to be vulnerable; and to the unscripted team at Amazon Studios, who championed this series," she said in a statement on Thursday. "Our goal is to help couples find love in a fun, unique way, and we can't wait to share Twin Love with Prime Video and Freevee audiences this summer."
Nikki and Brie co-host "The Bellas Podcast" on SiriusXM's Stitcher and currently appear on E!'s "Nikki Bella Says I Do." They previously starred on "Total Divas" and spinoff "Total Bellas." Additionally, Nikki hosts USA Network's "Barmageddon" and was a judge on NBC's "America's Got Talent Extreme."
Variety
The Wrap
TV Line
Deadline
The Futon Critic |
posted 3/2/2023 |
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WEDNESDAY: Grab Your Torches... Head Back to Camp
NBC Wins the Night Overall
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, CBS' Survivor opener landed in a three-way tie for the Wednesday demo win, while NBC's Chicago Fire copped the night's biggest audience.
Chicago Med (with 6.4 million total viewers and a 0.6 demo rating) and Fire (6.6 mil/0.6, read about Severide's "exit") were both steady, while P.D. (4.9 mil/0.5) dipped.
Survivor (4.6 mil/0.6) was down just a tick from its year-ago opener. The True Lies premiere (3.2 mil) improved on Good Sam's year-ago comps (2.1 mil/0.2).
ABC's The Conners (3.3 mil/0.4), The Goldbergs (2.2 mil/0.3), Abbott Elementary (2.4 mil/0.4) and Not Dead Yet (2.1 mil/0.3) all dipped — with The Conners and Abbott both eyeing at least season lows — while A Million Little Things (1.6 mil/0.2) was steady.
Fox's The Masked Singer (3.6 mil/0.5) and Special Forces: WTT (1.6 mil/0.3) both dipped, with the latter's finale hitting/tying season lows.
The CW's The Flash (570K/0.1) hit a season high in audience; Kung Fu (410K/0.1) in turn rebounded from last week's audience low.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Master Minds (GSN): 540k/0.03
- Guy's Grocery Games (Food): 518k/0.07
- Moonshiners: Master Distiller (Discovery): 503k/0.08
- People Puzzler (GSN): 470k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 465k/0.06
- The Challenge: Ride or Dies Reunion (MTV): 385k/0.20
- Power Slap: Road to the Title (TBS): 277k/0.09
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/2/2023 |
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"Sing Again" Sings Again
Korean Talent Contest Gives New Life to Old Talent
From Deadline |
Sing Again, a Korean singing competition series that's outperformed The Masked Singer and I Can See Your Voice, has landed a third season on the JTBC network and Discovery+.
The series, a mix of reality and singing competition beats based around 'forgotten' singers, launched in 2020-21. It achieved ratings three times its usual slot size in Korea over its two seasons and Season One peaked with a 10% audience share – a significant number in Korea. That meant it became the top performing music competition show, outscoring the well travelled Masked Singer and I Can See Your Voice.
Sing Again is billed as "a splashy and nostalgic singing competition where once-celebrated, now-forgotten singers, get another shot at vocal stardom." Identified only as a number to eight judges, they can ditch their past and win a second chance at fame based on talent alone. It involves several rounds before one wins $100,000 and a recording contract.
"It was a super, mega hit. Korea has a lot of singing competition shows but from the first episode Sing Again beat all others," said Warner Bros Discovery Korea General Manager Jeeyoung Lee. The format was presented to buyers at the Warner Bros. International Television Production Formats Showcase during the London TV Screenings this morning, where Lee unveiled the recommission.
It airs across 20 territories in Asia on Discovery Channel and Discovery+, has scored 37M views on streaming platform Naver and got more than 15M hits on YouTube.
JTBC's production arm Studio LuluLala developed the series alongside Discovery prior to the latter's merger with Warner Bros.
Deadline |
posted 3/2/2023 |
 |
Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Saucy" |
- Top Chef teams with HEatonist to release celebratory hot sauce (The Futon Critic)
- Jay Leno's new face comes with the same chin (Entertainment Weekly)
- KEn Jennings re: Stephen Fry: "Nothing gives you imposter syndrome quite like sharing a job description with Stephen Fry". (Newsweek)
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posted 2/28/2023 |
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Netflix/Fremantle
Netflix's Cheat Codes
Danny Dyer's New Quiz Show to Play on Netflix March 1
From What to Watch |
Cheat is a brand new quiz show launching on Netflix which is hosted by former EastEnders star Danny Dyer and Ellie Taylor of Ted Lasso fame. Netflix has been a little bit canny too with the show's title, branding it Ch£at with a pound sign within it! And that's because there's an awful lot of money, or wonga as Danny Dyer might say, to be won!
Cheat arrives on Netflix on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Hopefully, the cash will be flowing to the contestants from the off! The Cheat episodes will be shown in binge-worthy bunches of four...
-
Ch£at episodes 1 to 4 launch on March 1.
-
Ch£at episodes 5 to 8 launch on March 8.
-
Ch£at episodes 9 to 12 launch on March 15.
Cheat is a battle of brains and wit… and an ability to be able to tell barefaced lies! Each episode starts with four brave players who have their knowledge put to the ultimate test as they bluff and blag across three rounds to avoid elimination and build a potential jackpot of over £50,000 (almost $62,000). There's just one crucial rule, however... Don't get caught!
What to Watch
Entertainment Focus
Digital Spy
Netflix
Good To Know
The Sun
Yahoo!
Portsmouth News
Radio Times
The Telegraph
Yahoo! |
posted 3/1/2023 |
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TMZ, Fox Team Up on "Bleep"
Show to Run in Test Markets March 6
From the Futon Critic |
From the producers of TMZ comes an all-new game show, Who The Bleep Is That?, set to debut for a four-week run on FOX stations in 12 major markets - New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, D.C., San Francisco, Houston, Phoenix, Minneapolis, Detroit, Orlando and Milwaukee - beginning Monday, March 6.
Who The Bleep Is That? is a half-hour game show hosted by comedian Jeff Dye, where contestants will have their celebrity knowledge put to the ultimate test as they uncover images focusing on TV, music, sports, politics, historical figures and social influencers. Obscured images of celebrities are shown to contestants, and slowly become clear to reveal current photos, throwback photos, sketches, actors in movie roles, images of famous people in relationships, and more. The first contestant to buzz in and guess correctly wins the point, and after three rounds, the contestant with the most points get the chance to play for the grand prize of $5K.
Host Jeff Dye says, "Who The Bleep Is That? - finally, a game show that doesn't suck."
Who The Bleep Is That? is produced by TMZ Studios and executive-produced by Harvey Levin, Tom Ruff, Ryan Regan, Charles Latibeaudiere and Jess Fusco, with co-executive producer Susan Favre.
The Futon Critic
NextTV |
posted 3/1/2023 |
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TUESDAY: CBS Dominates
Dead Heat Demo-Wise
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings (per Nielsen finals), CBS' FBI led Tuesday in total viewers, while there was a four-way tie for the nightly demo win.
FBI (with 6.8 million viewers and a 0.5 rating) and Most Wanted (4.7 mil/0.3) both were steady in the demo, while International (5.6 mil/0.4) was up in viewers and steady in the demo.
NBC's Night Court (3.6 mil/0.5) and American Auto (1.8 mil/0.3) were steady. The already-renewed La Brea's two-part season finale drew 1.9 mil/0.2 and then 1.77 mil/0.2, with the latter marking its second-smallest audience ever.
ABC's The Rookie matched its smallest audience since Jan. 10 (4.1 mil) and also dipped in the demo (to a 0.5). Feds (2.8 mil/0.3) and Will Trent (2.7 mil/0.3) were steady.
The CW's Winchesters delivered its biggest audience since Nov. 22 (489K) and was steady in the demo (with a 0.1).
Fox's 9-1-1: Lone Star (3.4 mil/0.5) hit an audience low but was steady in the demo, after which Accused (1.6 mil/0.2) fell to season lows.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Chopped (Food): 638k/0.09
- Superchef Grudge Match (Food): 579k/0.11
- Master Minds (GSN): 499k/0.02
- People Puzzler (GSN): 455k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 397k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/1/2023 |
 |
MONDAY: ABC, NBC's Got Talent
Networks Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, ABC's The Bachelor and NBC's AGT: All-Stars tied for the nightly demo win, while CBS' NCIS copped Monday's biggest audience.
Fox's Alert: Missing Persons Unit opened its double-episode finale with 2.4 million total viewers — its largest Monday and a best-since-premiere audience — while matching its demo low of 0.2. The second episode drew 2.2 mil (also up vs. last week) and another 0.2.
NBC's AGT: All-Stars (5.1 mil/0.6) ticked up in the demo with its season finale. Quantum Leap (2 mil/0.3) was up a bit in audience from its previous episode.
ABC's The Bachelor (2.9 mil/0.6) ticked up in the demo, while The Good Doctor (3.1 mil/0.3) was flat.
CBS's The Neighborhood (6 mil/0.5) and NCIS: Hawaii (5 mil/0.3) were steady in the demo, while Bobishola (5.5 mil/0.5) and NCIS Episode 450 (6.8 mil/0.5) ticked up.
Monday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Kids Baking Championship: Biz Kids (SF/Food): 1.181m/0.17
- Master Minds (GSN): 565k/0.03
- People Puzzler (GSN): 528k/0.04
- Switch
(GSN): 459k/0.05
- Wipeout (R/TeenNick): 44m/0.02
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 3/1/2023 |
 |
Disunion of the Snake
USA Cancels "Snake in the Grass" After One Season
From Deadline |
Bobby Bones-fronted social experiment Snake In The Grass won't be returning to USA Network.
The NBCUniversal cable network has cancelled the reality series after one season.
It comes after the broadcaster renewed Blake Shelton and Carson Daly's Barmageddon for a second season after it became its best series premiere in nearly three years.
Snake In The Grass and Barmageddon were both part of USA Network's latest unscripted slate, which was unveiled last May. The slate also included Race To Survive Alaska, from Deadliest Catch producer Original Productions, which is launching in April.
Deadline |
posted 3/1/2023 |
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FRIDAY: The Usual Suspects Have Their Usual Lead
CBS, Fox Split Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, Friday Night SmackDown dominated the night in the demo, while S.W.A.T. copped the largest audience (as CBS' lone fresh Friday drama).
Leading into back-to-back reruns of Fire Country, SWAT drew 4.5 million total viewers (its second-smallest audience of the season) while matching its all-time demo low rating (0.3).
ABC's airing of The Mandalorian's pilot did 2.3 million and a 0.3.
SmackDown (2.3 mil/0.6) was steady week-to-week.
Leading out of a Lopez vs. Lopez rerun, on-the-bubble Young Rock (1.4 mil/0.2) was steady with its Season 3 finale on NBC.
The CW's Whose Line (550K/0.1) dropped a handful of eyeballs.
Friday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- RuPaul's Drag Race (MTV): 663k/0.25
- RuPaul's Drag Race Untucked (MTV): 138k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 2/28/2023 |
 |

Daily Star
CHARLES FOSTER: 1931-2023
Actor Turned Announcer for ITV
From ATV Today |
Former Granada TV presenter Charles Foster has died at the age of 91. He served as one of the faces of the channel in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
He also worked as an announcer on the ITV game shows Catchphrase and The Krypton Factor, and most recently he provided the voice over on the conflict-resolution series Judge Rinder.
Also an actor, Foster appeared in Coronation Street, Emmerdale, and Crown Court on ITV.
Paying tribute to Charles, Granada Reports' producer Rob Jaskowski said: "Charles was such a nice person. I remember being star stuck on my first day at Granada on work placement in 1984 when I sat with him in the canteen at Quay Street. He was great to chat with and a true inspiration. Condolences to his family and friends."
BBC presenter Steve Saul wrote: "Sorry to hear the reports of the death of former Granada TV continuity announcer and voiceover Charles Foster. Along with Colin Weston and Jim Pope they were the friendly face of ITV when I was growing up. I would have loved to have been an in-vision continuity announcer."
Foster was married to actress Meg Johnson, who is best known for her roles in Emmerdale, Coronation Street and Brookside.
ATV Today
Prolific North |
posted 2/28/2023 |
 |
NBC Slots Game Returns
"The Wall", "Weakest Link" Return Week of April 11
From the Futon Critic |
NBC is revving up the excitement with the return of two of its most popular game shows, "The Wall" on Tuesday, April 11 at 9 p.m. ET/PT and "Weakest Link" on Monday, April 17 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Episodes will be available for streaming on Peacock the following day.
The heart-stopping games return with exciting new gameplay, a slew of special guests and a fresh crop of deserving contestants who are eager to put their skills to the test in a battle for life-changing cash prizes.
Across all platforms (NBC, digital and streaming), season four of "The Wall" four averaged 3.4 million viewers, growing +27% from its same-day telecasts. Overall, "The Weakest Link" has reached more than 25.1 million people.
The Futon Critic
UPI |
posted 2/28/2023 |
 |

Peacock
BBC Renews "The Traitors"
Claudia Winkleman to Return as Host of British Version
From Deadline |
Smash hit gameshow The Traitors has been renewed for a second season by the BBC.
In one of the least surprising bits of commissioning news of the year so far, the pubcaster has opted to greenlight a 12-part series two of the Claudia Winkleman-hosted game show in which a group of "faithfuls" try and smoke out three "traitors" while living in a castle. The group compete in challenges and each night one is "banished" from the castle and another is "murdered" by the traitors. The word-of-mouth hit was all the British TV industry could talk about over Christmas, coming in for praise for its high-octane drama, diversity and range of authentic contestants.
The show attracted more than 3 million viewers per episode overnight for the BBC when it aired around Christmas time and was the biggest new series for young people of the year, according to the BBC.
Produced by Studio Lambert in the UK, the original Dutch format has been selling around the world, most recently airing on Peacock in the U.S, where it is hosted by Alan Cumming.
"We were delighted so many viewers of BBC One and BBC iPlayer loved the first season," said Studio Lambert CEO Stephen Lambert. "They told us they enjoyed the drama and entertainment of watching our players judge each other, often leaping to false conclusions, but also forming alliances and real friendships. We're excited to be making a second season with Claudia as together we build on the success of the first." BBC Head of Entertainment Kalpna Patel-Knight praised the "ambitious and bingeable hit."
More details will be announced in due course.
Deadline
Variety
What to Watch
Scotsman
Royal Television Society |
posted 2/28/2023 |
 |
Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Bzinga!" |
- Aditya Narayan tapped to host "Bzinga!" variety game (Times of India)
- TikTok Trivia came and went... Half a mill in the pot, and if you won all eight games, you got... just north of $350. (NBC News)
- Jeff Probst hints that the next season will have a showmance. In case you're keeping score of that thing. (Reality TV World)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Joey Sasso (Variety)
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posted 2/28/2023 |
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Game Show Network
Split Second Returns April
John Michael Higgins to Host Quiz Reboot
From GSN PR |
Game Show Network announced a launch date for their planned "Split Second" reboot. The quiz show, hosted by "America Says" frontman John Michael Higgins, will play April 2023.
"The classic trivia show Split Second is coming to Game Show Network this spring, hosted by the always wonderful John Michael Higgins!" the network posted Monday across its social channels. "We've got lots more info coming so stay tuned!"
First hosted by Tom Kennedy and airing on ABC from 1972 to 1975, the quiz show challenges contestants to answer questions with three possible answers in lightspeed. The action culminates in a Countdown Round, where only the fastest will win the championship.
A syndicated revival aired in 1986 in the US and Canada. The show rights are currently being held by Fremantle.
More information as soon as it becomes available, but it is expected that $10,000 is the top dollar for the series.
Facebook |
posted 2/27/2023 |
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More Games, More Faces
"Celebrity Game Face" Returns April 6
From the Futon Critic |
E!'s "Celebrity Game Face," hosted and executive produced by Kevin Hart, returns for season four on Thursday, April 6 at 9 p.m. ET/PT with the biggest names in Hollywood as they participate in a series of absurdly funny challenges for a chance to win the "Hart of a Champion" trophy and earn money for their charity of choice.
Each episode will feature three famous duos competing against each other in hysterical and extreme at-home games, such as "Flip It Good," in which one teammate wears flippers on their feet while the other dons a bowl strapped on their head in a race against the other celebrities to flip three waffles from their funky footwear into the bowl, and "Celeb Face Game," in which one teammate will have an image of a person or animal over their face that they must guess as their other team member describes the image without using certain words.
Full list of celebrity pairings this season include Ice-T & Coco Austin, Elle King & Dierks Bentley, Latto & Brooklyn, Tamar Braxton & Mitch, Evelyn Lozada & Shaniece, Nivea Williams & Zo, Fat Joe & Rich Player, NE-YO & Mama Lo, Estelle & Melanie Fiona, Jimmie Allen & Bobby Bones, Kyle Busch & Samantha Busch, Affion Crockett & J Lee, Kandi Burruss & Todd Tucker, Rosci Diaz & Chantel Christopher, Sherri Shepherd & B-Phlat, Nikki Glaser & Julie Glaser, Rita Ora & Elena, Jason Derulo & MOVI3, Tiffany Haddish & Bresha Webb, Malin Ackerman & Jack Donnelly, Steelo Brim & AJ, Alexa Bliss & Ryan Cabrera, Carmella Graves & Ciret Graves, The Miz & Maryse, Jermaine Fowler & Katrina Lenzly, Michael Ealy & Khatira Rafiqzada, Neal Brennan & Kat Keene, Illiza Shlesinger & Noah Galuten, Boris Kodjoe & Ian Reichbach, Natasha Lyonne & Nick Thune, JB Smoove & Shah, Chris Paul & Jada Paul, Maria Menounos & Sean Waltman, Jay Pharoah & Shaina Farrow, Shad Bow Wow & Pimpin, David Dobrik & Ilya, Chloe Bailey & Halle Bailey, Vivica A. Fox & Nikki Rael and GaTa & Stacye Smith.
The Futon Critic |
posted 2/27/2023 |
 |
Canada No Longer Live
"Big Brother Canada" Does Away with Live Feeds
From Entertainment Weekly |
In a seismic shift for reality TV, Big Brother Canada has announced that it is doing away with the 24/7 live feeds that allow fans to watch every single second of the action in terms of what sort of shenanigans contestants are up to inside the house. Instead, the show, which is hosted by Arisa Cox, will introduce something called Digital Dallies for it's upcoming 11th season, which premieres March 8 on Global in Canada.
Digital Dallies are being described as "uncut content from inside the BBCAN house, offering viewers an extended peek into the houseguests' lives." That seems to mean that production will offer only selected segments from inside the house, also giving them the ability to make sure any unflattering or problematic behavior or speech — something Big Brother often specializes in — does not make it to air. Digital Dailies will be posted regularly throughout each week.
"We are known for giving audiences behind the scenes access to Big Brother Canada, and we're excited to debut Digital Dailies this season" said Lisa Godfrey, Senior Vice President, Original Content and Corus Studios, Corus Entertainment as part of a statement on the announcement. "This new content offering came together after thoughtful consideration, with us taking a new approach to the BBCAN live feeds by offering an exclusive peek inside the house and moving away from the 24/7 live feeds."
Continued Godfrey: "We are constantly looking for new ways to evolve the show to ensure we operate with the utmost duty of care and prioritize the mental health and well-being of the houseguests, and their family members, as well as our own production team who work closely on the series. We are happy to continue delivering the exclusive content we know audiences love, in a way that works best for our BBCAN family."
Entertainment Weekly
Corus |
posted 2/24/2023 |
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THURSDAY: Meredith Grey Says Goodbye
NBC Wins
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings: With CBS in rerun mode, NBC's Law & Order: SVU led Thursday both in the demo and in total viewers.
Law & Order (with 4.6 million total viewers and a 0.5 demo rating) and Organized Crime (3.6 mil/0.5) were steady in the demo, while SVU (4.9 mil/0.6) dipped.
Back from a 3-1/2 month break on ABC, Station 19 (3.9 mil/0.5) and Grey's Anatomy (3.5 mil/0.5) each dropped a handful of eyeballs while steady in the demo.
The CW's Walker (680K/0.1) slipped to its second-smallest audience of the season, while Independence Guest-Starring Jared Padalecki (450K/0.1) was steady.
Fox's Next Level Chef (2 mil/0.4) was steady, Animal Control (1.6 mil/0.3) lost some viewers vs. its debut but held steady in the demo, and Call Me Kat (1.3 mil/0.2) dipped.
Thursday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Battlebots (Discovery): 606k/0.08
- Master Minds (GSN): 476k/0.02
- Switch (GSN): 467k/0.04
- People Puzzler (GSN): 437k/0.02
- Ex on the Beach (SP/MTV): 88k/0.03
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 2/24/2023 |
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Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Oscar Idol" |
- PROGRAMMING NOTE: "American Idol" to air special episode after the OScars March 12 (The Futon Critic)
- James Corden slots the Last Last Late Late Show Show (Deadline)
- Adam Levine gets shorted on a $90,000 car (MSN)
- Emma Slater, Sasha Farber break up (Us Magazine)
- CROWNING MOMENT OF AWESOME: meet the star of Teen Week (TV Insider)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Ike Barinholtz (The Hollywood Reporter)
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posted 2/24/2023 |
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Remarkable Television/Banijay
Pointless Friends
Cohosts Announced
From Digital Spy |
Pointless has announced its next group of guest hosts, with two Taskmaster favorites among those joining Alexander Armstrong.
Following Richard Osman's departure from the quiz show last year, the show has been enjoying a series a guest presenters to fill his slot.
The BBC has now confirmed the next roster for this year, with Taskmaster series 5 star Sally Phillips and series 9 star Rose Matafeo among them.
Also announced are Great British Menu's Andi Oliver, Celebrity Gogglebox's Gyles Brandreth, The Mash Report's Nish Kumar, comedians Lucy Porter and Ria Lina, and Radio 1 presenter Vick Hope.
"I am so looking forward to trying Richard Osman's big shoes on and being the answer police on Pointless. I am certain the power of the Pointless laptop will go to my head, and I will become insufferable, which I am also really looking forward to," Sally said of joining.
Rose added: "I am over the moon to be co-hosting Pointless. As an ardent fan of television quiz shows, this is my Everest."
Digital Spy
MSN
Metro
Chortle
TellyMix |
posted 2/23/2023 |
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WEDNESDAY: Chicago, Masked Singer Lead Night
NBC Wins the Night Overall
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, NBC's #OneChicago tied Fox's Masked Singer for the Wednesday demo win, while Chicago Fire delivered the night's largest audience.
Chicago Med (with 6.3 million total viewers and a 0.6 rating) and Fire (6.8 mil/0.6) were steady in the demo, while P.D. (5.6 mil/0.6) ticked up with its 200th episode.
The Masked Singer (3.8 mil/0.6) was steady, while Special Forces: WTT (1.8 mil/0.3) dipped.
The CW's The Flash (490K/0.1) dipped to its second smallest audience ever, while on-the-bubble Kung Fu (360K/0.1) matched its audience low (set Nov. 16).
Leading out of TPIR at Night (4.3 mil/0.5), CBS' Tough as Nails' double-episode finale did 2.2 mil/0.3 and then 1.9 mil/0.2.
ABC's The Conners (3.6 mil/0.5), The Goldbergs (2.4 mil/0.2), Abbott (2.6 mil/0.5), Not Dead Yet (2.3 mil/0.3) and A Million Little Things (1.7 mil/0.2) were all steady in the demo, though AMLT dipped to a new audience low.
Wednesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
- Master Minds (GSN): 553k/0.05
- The Challenge: Ride or Dies Reunion (MTV): 518k/0.24
- People Puzzler (GSN): 518k/0.06
- Moonshiners: Master Distiller (Discovery): 449k/0.10
- Switch (GSN): 425k/0.04
- Power Slap: Road to the Title (TBS): 309k/0.10
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 2/23/2023 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Nightbirde Sings" |
- Nightbirde to have her music released on the anniversary of her death (Deadline)
- Danny Dyer's wife clears bank account after he cheated on her (LADBible)
- THROWBACK (no, seriously, throw it back!) THURSDAY: 20 yers ago, two of the worst reality shows on ABC... perhaps ever... premiered (Primetimer)
- Emma Slater, Sasha Farber break up (Us Magazine)
- CROWNING MOMENT OF AWESOME: meet the star of Teen Week (TV Insider)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Ike Barinholtz (The Hollywood Reporter)
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posted 2/23/2023 |
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World of Wonder/Paramount+
"Queen" of the Second Universe
Cast Named for Season 2 of PAramount+ Series
From Entertainment Weekly |
The Vocal Olympics of Drag has returned as 10 new queens from around the world join the Queen of the Universe season 2 cast.
Hailing from nine global nations — Italy, Brazil, Mexico, the Philippines, the Netherlands, Israel, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States — the cast of competitors will duke it out across the singing competition's new season in pursuit of a $250,000 prize and the worldwide bragging rights for their homeland.
Entering the contest this year are alums from two international RuPaul's Drag Race spin-offs, including Drag Race Italia season 2 runner-up Aura Eternal and Drag Race Holland season 2 queen Love Masisi.
Representing the U.S. is pageant legend and Miss Continental winner Jazell Barbie Royale — whose viral performance of CeCe Peniston's "He Loves Me 2" you've definitely seen on social media — as well as California-based performer Militia Scunt.
Season 1 of the show saw Brazil's Grag Queen take the crown after a contentious competition featuring Drag Race legend Jujubee and American Idol star Ada Vox among its cast.
Judges Trixie Mattel, Michelle Visage, and Vanessa Williams are all set to return for season 2 alongside new judge Mel B, while Graham Norton will reprise his role as emcee on new episodes produced by RuPaul, Drag Race production company World of Wonder, and MTV Entertainment Studios.
Queen of the Universe season 2 premieres in the United States on Friday, March 31, on Paramount+, and April 1 in the United Kingdom, Latin America, Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Australia.
Entertainment Weekly
Deadline
|
posted 2/22/2023 |
 |

MGM Television
"The Voice" Adds Reba
Country Legend to Return as Mega Mentor
From Entertainment Weekly |
Reba McEntire is returning to the Voice stage.
The country superstar will serve as a mega mentor when the competition series returns for season 23 on March 6, NBC announced Wednesday. She is set to join returning coaches Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton and newcomers Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan.
McEntire previously served as a battle advisor for Shelton's team during the inaugural season of The Voice, making her addition as a mega mentor an apt full-circle moment as Shelton prepares to take his final spin in the swivel chair. The country crooner, who has eight wins under his belt, announced last year that the upcoming season will be his last.
McEntire will mentor the remaining artists who have made it through the Battle Rounds as they prepare for the Knockouts April 17.
The new season will also unveil changes to the competition, with the introduction of an all-new Playoff Pass, which allows both contenders in a battle to advance and gives the winner a major advantage of being able to skip the Knockout Rounds, inching them one step closer to the live shows.
Each coach will have one Playoff Pass and one Steal. Seven contestants per team will advance, with six competing in the Knockouts and one using the Playoff Pass. The format will be as follows: the Battles (which start March 27), the Knockouts and the Playoffs (starting May 1), and the live shows (which commence May 15).
Entertainment Weekly
The Wrap
Deadline
The FUton Critic
|
posted 2/22/2023 |
 |
"Survivor" to Launch Official Podcast
Jeff Probst to Host STarting March 1
From The Futon Critic |
Today CBS announced a new companion podcast for SURVIVOR, the Emmy Award-winning primetime series and #1 streamed reality program on Paramount+. The show's only official podcast, ON FIRE WITH JEFF PROBST, will debut Wednesday, March 1 on all major podcast platforms immediately following the special two-hour premiere (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) of the hit series' 44th season. New podcast episodes will go live each Wednesday at the conclusion of that week's broadcast of SURVIVOR, which regularly airs Wednesdays, 8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT on the CBS Television Network and is available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+*.
"I'm very excited to share that, for the first time in 22 years, we're doing an official SURVIVOR podcast," says host and executive producer Jeff Probst. "We're going to go inside the making of SURVIVOR from the producers' point of view [for] the how we do what we do, and the why. I think of it like a companion piece to the show. It's something we've thought about doing in years past but this season is so good, it just felt like the perfect time."
Listeners will be able to join Emmy Award-winning host and showrunner Jeff Probst, and his co-hosts, SURVIVOR producer Brittany Crapper and podcast producer and SURVIVOR fan Jay Wolff, as they go behind the scenes of the groundbreaking reality series like never before. ON FIRE WITH JEFF PROBST is the ultimate companion to SURVIVOR 44, whether you're a superfan or new to the show. Each week, Jeff will go inside the latest episode and share some of the secrets of how they make the show. Fulfilling fans' dreams, Probst will also answer audience questions and take part in a fan segment called "Why Jeff Sucks."
"Whenever we make a podcast we ask ourselves - how is this pod something that only we can do?" said Steve Raizes, EVP of podcasting and audio for Paramount. "The exceptional factor here is Jeff [Probst]. After hosting Survivor for over 20 years, Jeff is the heart of the franchise with unmatched knowledge of and passion for the competition. The insight and excitement he brings to the podcast make it truly unrivaled. As both a podcaster and longtime fan of SURVIVOR, we're incredibly excited about what he and the team have created. It really sings."
Listen to the trailer for ON FIRE WITH JEFF PROBST here and follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever podcasts are available.
Th eFuton Critic
TV Line
|
posted 2/22/2023 |
 |
TUESDAY: A Night for the Law
Three-Way Tie for the Night
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, there was a three-day tie for the nightly demo win, while CBS' FBI easily copped Tuesday's largest audience.
FBI (with 6.7 million total viewers and a 0.5 rating) dropped some eyeballs but was steady in the demo, while International (5.1 mil/0.3) and Most Wanted (4.6 mi/0.3) both dipped across the board.
ABC's The Rookie (4 mil/0.5), Feds (2.5 mil/0.3) and Will Trent (2.5 mil/0.3) all dipped in audience but were steady in the demo.
NBC's Night Court (3.6 mil/0.5) shed a few more eyeballs but held steady in the demo; American Auto (1.8 mil/0.3) was also steady. A double pump of the already-renewed La Brea (1.9 mil/0.2, 1.7 mil/0.2, rea) delivered successive audience lows.
FOX's 9-1-1: Lone Star (3.4 mil/0.4, read post mortem) dipped to series lows, but Accused (2 mil/0.3) was steady.
Now airing an hour earlier, The CW's The Winchesters (372K/0.1) drew its best audience in four episodes.
Tuesday cable numbers... (totals/A18-49)
-
Chopped (Food): 671k/0.13
- Superchef Grudge Match (P/Food): 656k/0.12
- Master Minds (GSN): 518k/0.03
- People Puzzler (GSN): 513k/0.04
- Switch (GSN): 453k/0.04
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 2/22/2023 |
 |

CBS
CBS Renews Four
"Survivor", "Race", "Nails", "Lingo" Will Return Next Season
From The Futon Critic |
CBS announced today that it has renewed nine additional series for the 2023-2024 season.
The renewed CBS Original series are #1 broadcast series/drama NCIS, #1 news program 60 MINUTES, CSI: VEGAS, NCIS: HAWAI'I, SURVIVOR, THE AMAZING RACE, TOUGH AS NAILS, LINGO and the true crime docuseries 48 HOURS, Saturday's #1 non-sports primetime series for 17 consecutive seasons.
To date, CBS has renewed 19 series, including the previously announced #1 new series/drama FIRE COUNTRY, #1 comedy YOUNG SHELDON, GHOSTS, THE NEIGHBORHOOD, BOB HEARTS ABISHOLA, SO HELP ME TODD, THE EQUALIZER, FBI, FBI: INTERNATIONAL and FBI: MOST WANTED.
In addition, THE NEVER GAME, a new drama starring Justin Hartley, received an early series order for the 2023-2024 season.
"This season CBS is continuing its winning tradition, delivering an unparalleled combination of top returning series and new hit shows that are entertaining huge audiences on both broadcast and streaming," said Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment. "It is a testament to the stellar work being done by our best-in-class talent in front of and behind the camera that we have had yet another exceptional season, and I know we will only continue to build on this foundation of outstanding programming as we look ahead toward next fall."
The Futon Critic
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
Nerds & Beyond
Parade
TV Insider
The Hollywood Reporter
E! Online
NextTV
|
posted 2/22/2023 |
 |

Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
SYNDIES: Week 20
Results for the Week Ending February 12
From TV Newscheck |
Most of the syndication stars were hit with minor losses in the session ending Feb. 12, even though the frame featured several major television attractions including the Super Bowl, the State of the Union address and the Grammy Awards.
The only talkers in the top five able to resist the household rating downtrend were Disney's duo of Live with Kelly and Ryan and Tamron Hall, which both hung tough at a 1.6 and a 0.8 live-plus-same-day national Nielsen, respectively.
Turning to access time periods, Jeopardy was the game show standout, edging up 3% to a 6.0; Wheel of Fortune followed with a 2% uptick to a 5.5; while Family Feud featured a 2% improvement to a new season high 5.4.
The big game shows also lost ground. Jeopardy sank 7% to a 5.6 and Wheel of Fortune faded 5% to a 5.2 to tie Family Feud, which fell back 4%.
The only strip in the category climbing into positive territory was newcomer Pictionary, which plowed ahead with a 25% gain to a 0.5.
In the household rating rankings that follow, % change is from the previous week; * indicates a new season-high rating; ** indicates a new season low; NC indicates no change from the previous week; NA mean not applicable.
GAME SHOWS:
-
Jeopardy (CMV) 5.6 -7%
-
Wheel of Fortune (CMV) 5.2 -5%
-
Family Feud (Debmar-Mercury/FMNA) 5.2 -4%
- 25 Words or Less (Fox First Run) 0.7 -13%
- You Bet Your Life with Jay Leno (Fox First Run) 0.7 NC
- Pictionary (CMV): 0.5 +25%
-
Funny You Should Ask (Allen Media Group) 0.4 NC
TV Newscheck
Daytime Confidential
NextTV
Soap Opera Network
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posted 2/22/2023 |
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The Price Is Right for Samsung TV Plus
"Barker Era" Arrives Today
From NextTV |
For long-running game show The Price Is Right, the price is now free, as in a free ad-supported streaming TV channel.
Samsung TV Plus said it has added a The Price is Right channel to its channel lineup in February.
Right now, the channel is featuring episodes from Seasons 11 to 14.
Samsung TV Plus also added a Jamie Oliver channels and a Divorce Court Channel.
NextTV |
posted 2/22/2023 |
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TikTok to Try Trivia
Catch It February 22
From TechCrunch |
Today, TikTok announced "TikTok Trivia," a new live five-day trivia game for U.S. users 18 years or older to get the chance to win a total share of a $500,000 prize pool by answering multiple-choice questions related to beauty, lifestyle, music and sports.
TikTok Trivia begins next week on February 22 and ends on February 26. During the first three days, TikTok Trivia will have two live sessions per day that are each an hour long. The first session will begin at 8 p.m. ET, and will have 12 questions. Winners split a $30,000 reward. The second session is at 9 p.m. ET., and winners split a $70,000 reward. There will also be special "Survival Rounds," where the questions get harder and harder as they go. The last group standing will split a $100,000 prize pool. The survival rounds occur February 25-26.
The experience is also presented by Lionsgate and "John Wick Chapter 4," so users will see trivia questions based on the "John Wick" franchise as well as "surprises and integrations," the company wrote in today's announcement. "John Wick Chapter 4" premieres March 24.
Users can participate in TikTok's live trivia sessions by going to the @TikTok channel on TikTok LIVE. Users must attend the trivia sessions on time and answer all questions correctly for a chance to win a share of the prize money.
Starting today, 18+ users in the U.S. can register for the experience by clicking on a trivia widget on the For You feed. Users can also search for #TikTokTrivia or directly visit the @TikTok account.
TechCrunch
HITC
Adweek |
posted 2/22/2023 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Kelly Needs Somebody to Lean On" |
- Kelly Clarkson bonds with Niall Horan (The Wrap)
- Chris Harrison to rumors of his "Bachelor" return... "Never say never" (TV Insinder)
- Jinkx Monsoon to kick off North America tour in Victoria, BC (Victoria Buzz)
- CASTING COUCH: Pop Whiz is casing for season 2 (Globe Newswire)
- Cris Pannullo's girlfriend gets meme'd by Jeopardy! (The Sun)
- Ben Stein made another video and ugh... (Mashed)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Guy Fieri (Screen Rant)
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posted 2/22/2023 |
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More on "Love Is Blind" Season 4
Catch It on Netflix March 24
From Variety |
Netflix's popular dating show "Love Is Blind" will premiere its latest season next month.
The streamer announced that Season 4 will launch on Friday, March 24 with batches of new episodes dropping on weekly basis on Fridays. The new season consists of 12 episodes.
Netflix dropped the first teaser to preview Season 4, though the cast has not been revealed yet.
"Love Is Blind" follows singles who will choose someone to marry without ever meeting them. The format sees contestants going on dates with each other by meeting in pods, speaking through walls and never meeting face-to-face, until they accept a marriage proposal in the pods. Then, over several weeks, the newly engaged couples will move in together, plan their wedding and find out if their physical connection matches their emotional bond developed in the pods. By the time their wedding day arrives, will they marry the person they fell blindly in love with, or will they break up at the altar?
Season 4 is set in Seattle, and is once again hosted by Nick and Vanessa Lachey."
Variety
THe Futon Critic
TV Line
TV Insider
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posted 2/21/2023 |
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Food Network Opens "Ciao House"
New Competition Series to Launch April 16
From the Futon Critic |
Food Network takes ten up-and-coming chefs on the journey of a lifetime to Tuscany in the new primetime series Ciao House, hosted by network all-star Chef Alex Guarnaschelli and Tuscan-born Chef Gabriele Bertaccini. Shot on-location in Italy, the series welcomes ten rising culinary stars who will live together in a breathtaking Italian villa and compete against each other as individuals and in teams to prove their mastery of Italian cooking techniques and dishes. From real-life nonnas showcasing how they make pasta from scratch to a lesson with the head butcher of a three centuries-old family butcher business, each challenge is accompanied by a local experience steeped in tradition. The competitors must also navigate alliances and rivalries as they pick their own teams and each week, the losing team must vote off one of their own. In the end, only the last chef standing wins the life-changing grand prize: an immersive culinary education across Italy, training with renowned Italian master chefs. Ciao House premieres Sunday, April 16th at 9pm ET/PT and streams the same day on discovery+.
"Ciao House fuses the beauty and culinary traditions of Tuscany into a high-stakes competition," said Betsy Ayala, Head of Content, Food, Warner Bros. Discovery. "These talented chefs must live together as a family in a jaw-dropping villa and simultaneously compete against each other for the prize of lifetime - it's not just a battle of cooking skills, in Ciao House personal dynamics, loyalties and rivalries create the perfect storm to create one of our most exciting series to date."
The competitors are: Omar Ashley (Avenel, New Jersey); Corey Becker (Brooklyn, New York); Saba Duffy (Framingham, Massachusetts); Trenica Johnson (Houston, Texas); Jess Mahoney (Los Angeles, California); Preston Paine (Dallas, Texas); Sarah Raffetto (New York, New York); Justin Robinson (Atlanta, Georgia); Natalia Rosario (Chicago, Illinois) and Matt Wasson (Staten Island, New York).
The Futon Critic |
posted 2/21/2023 |
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MONDAY: When the Eye's Away...
NBC Wins with AGT All-Stars
From TV Line |
In the latest TV show ratings, NBC's AGT: All-Stars and ABC's The Bachelor tied for the Monday demo win, while the former also delivered the night's largest audience.
AGT: All-Stars (with 4.9 million total viewers and a 0.5 rating) drew one of its better audiences of the season while holding steady in the demo. A Magnum P.I. Season 5 premiere rerun (2 mil/0.2) drew a larger crowd in the 10 pm time slot than the most recent Quantum Leap (1.75 mil/0.3).
The Bachelor (2.7 mil/0.5) dipped. A Company You Keep repeat mustered 1.4 mil and a 0.2.
Pending possible adjustment due to sports preemption in one market, The CW's All American (690K/0.2) rose 25 percent to deliver its largest audience since Dec. 13, 2021. On-the-bubble Homecoming (440K/0.1) was up 10 percent in viewers.
Fox's Fantasy Island (1.9 mil/0.2) and Alert: MPU (1.9 mil/0.3) were both steady.
Due to the holiday, Monday night on cable is forthcoming.
TV Line |
posted 2/21/2023 |
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FRIDAY: Sharks in the Water
ABC, Fox Split
From Deadline |
In the latest TV ratings, Fox's SmackDown topped the night in the demo while ABC's Shark Tank drew the largest crowd.
Friday Night SmackDown drew 2.3 million total viewers and a 0.5 demo rating, dipping week-to-week.
Shark Tank (3.7 mil/0.4) was down from its last fresh airing.
CBS' The Greatest @Home Videos did 3.2 mil and a 0.3, leading into a pair of drama reruns.
NBC's Lopez vs. Lopez (2.1 mil/0.3) delivered one of its larger audiences thus far, while Young Rock (1.3 mil/0.2) lost viewers.
The CW's Whose Line Is It Anyway? did 570K and a 0.1.
Friday cable numbers (total/A18-49)...
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RuPaul's Drag Race (MTV): 608k/0.25
- Switch (GSN): 420k/0.06
- RuPaul's Drag Race Untucked (MTV): 199k/0.07
TV Line
Showbuzz Daily |
posted 2/21/2023 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Life After Talent" |
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posted 2/21/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV Studios/CBS Media Ventures
More on the "High School Reunion"
Catch It on Jeopardy! February 20
From TV Insider |
Jeopardy! is gearing up for its first-ever High School Reunion Tournament which will kick off on Monday, February 20, and run through March 9. Mayim Bialik will host all 14 episodes, which will play in lieu of regular Jeopardy! episodes.
The tournament reunites former teen contestants from four seasons ago who appeared in Jeopardy!'s two Teen Tournaments. Now, the bright young minds who impressed viewers with their knowledge in the past are being given a chance to do it again, this time as college students.
The format will consist of nine quarterfinal games, three semifinals, and a two-day, total-point affair final. The tournament's Quarterfinal games will take place between Monday, February 20, and Friday, February 24, as well as Monday, February 27, and Thursday, February 2. The first Semifinal game will take place Friday, March 3, and carry on from Monday, March 6 through Tuesday, March 7. The two Finals games will take place Wednesday, March 8, and Friday, March 9.
The High School Reunion Tournament is described as a first-of-its-kind twist on the traditional College Championship format as 27 former teen competitors reunite to face off in a 14-day special event with a $100,000 grand prize on the line and a spot in the Tournament of Champions up for grabs.
Competitor matchups for the Quarterfinals are as follows:
Monday, February 20
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Rohit Kataria, a junior at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn. from Wheelersburg, Ohio
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Audrey Sarin, a senior at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo from Redmond, Wash.
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Maya Wright, a senior at Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. from Peachtree City, Ga.
Tuesday, February 21
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Avi Gupta, a senior at Stanford University in Palo Alto, Calif. from Portland, Ore.
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Jack Izzo, a senior at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. from San Diego, Calif.
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Alison Purcell, a senior at the University of Texas at Austin from Bellaire, Texas
Wednesday, February 22
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Sreekar Madabushi, a junior at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, Ga. from Basking Ridge, N.J.
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Stephanie Pierson, a junior at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill from Macon, Ga.
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Autumn Shelton, a junior at Princeton University in Princeton, N.J. from Lamar, Mo.
Thursday, February 23
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Justin Bolsen, a first-year student at Brown University in Providence, R.I. from Canton, Ga.
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Teagan O'Sullivan, a first-year student at American University in Washington, D.C. from Watertown, Mass.
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Shriya Yarlagadda, a sophomore at Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass. from Grand Blanc, Mich.
Friday, February 24
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Jackson Jones, a junior at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn. from Louisville, Ky.
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Isabella Pagano, a first-year student at CalTech in Pasadena, Calif. from Libertyville, Ill.
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Ryan Presler, a high school senior at Brandon Valley High School in Brandon, S.D. from Sioux Falls, S.D.
Monday, February 27
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Rohan Kapileshwari, a senior at the University of Texas at Austin from Winston-Salem, N.C.
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Claire Sattler, a senior at Yale University in New Haven, Conn. from Bonita Springs, Fla.
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Rhea Sinha, a recent graduate of Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. from Chatham, N.J.
Tuesday, February 28
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Anish Maddipoti, a junior at the University of Texas at Austin from Austin, Texas
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Lucas Miner, a junior at Yale University in New Haven, Conn. from Miami, Fla.
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Audrey Satchivi, a senior at Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind. from Carmel, Ind.
Wednesday, March 1
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Tim Cho, a senior at Columbia University in New York, N.Y. from Champaign, Ill.
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Dan Oxman, a senior at the University of Maryland in College Park, Md. from South Orange, N.J.
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Eesha Sohail, a recent graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles from Bakersfield, Calif.
Thursday, March 2
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Maggie Brown, a sophomore at the University of West Florida in Pensacola, Fla. from Pensacola. Fla.
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Hannah Nekritz, a senior at Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass. from Stamford, Conn.
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Caleb Richmond, a sophomore at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. from Bedford, N.H.
TV Insider
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posted 2/20/2023 |
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Getty Images/The Hollywood Reporter
RICHARD BELZER: 1944-2023
Actor/Comedian Played "Celebrity Poker Showdown"
From Deadline |
Richard Belzer, who played against type as a tough New York cop on Law and Order: SVU after playing the same character on Homicide: Life of the Street and a long career in comedy, has died at 78.
His death was first reported on social media by his friend, the actor Laraine Newman, of Saturday Night Live fame.
"I'm so sad to hear of Richard Belzer's passing," she wrote Sunday. "I loved this guy so much. He was one of my first friends when I got to New York to do SNL."
"We used to go out to dinner every week at Sheepshead Bay for lobster. One of the funniest people ever. A master at crowd work. RIP dearest," added Newman.
In the 1970s, Belzer was the warm-up comedian for Saturday Night Live, and appeared multiple times on its early seasons in bit parts. He also made memorable appearances in films like Fame and Author! Author!
In the 1980s. Belzer moved into the role of host of the cable TV show Hot Properties, where he memorably was choked out by wrestler Hulk Hogan. Belzer sued the wrestler, the parties settled. He also made appearances on The X-Files and Mad About You.
In 1992, Belzer was cast as Detective John Munch in Homicide: Life on the Street, an acclaimed cop drama that debuted after the 1993 Super Bowl and would on NBC until 1998. He was one of four actors who remained in the cast throughout its seven seasons and 2000 follow-up telefilm. After Homicide wrapped, he began to play Munch on Law and Order: SVU, a role that lasted 20 seasons.
"Richard Belzer's Detective John Munch is one of television's iconic characters," said a statement from show creator and producer Dick Wolf. "I first worked with Richard on the Law & Order/Homicide crossover and loved the character so much, I told Tom (Fontana) that I wanted to make him one of the original characters on 'SVU.' The rest is history. Richard brought humor and joy into all our lives, was the consummate professional and we will all miss him very much."
A statement from NBC and Universal Television praised Belzer's work.
"Anyone who ever had the pleasure of watching Richard Belzer portray Det. John Munch — whether on Homicide or Law & Order: SVU – over four decades will never forget how much he inhabited that beloved character to make it his own. His professionalism, talents and dedication to the craft made him a pillar in the industry, but it was his humor, compassion and loving heart that made him family. Our condolences go out to his loved ones as we join them in mourning his loss, but also in celebrating his memory."
Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Belzer was drawn to comedy, he said, during an abusive childhood in which his mother would beat him and his older brother, Len. He would do impressions of his childhood idol, Jerry Lewis. "My kitchen was the toughest room I ever worked," Belzer told People magazine in 1993.
On game shows, Belzer appeared on "Celebrity Poker Showdown", "Celebrity Blackjack", "Make Me Laugh", "Hollywood Squares", and "Last Comic Standing".
Belzer is survived by his third wife, the actress Harlee McBride, whom he married in 1985. For the past 20 years, they lived mostly in France.
Deadline
Variety
TV Line
TV Newscheck/AP
The Hollywood Reporter
Entertainment Weekly |
posted 2/20/2023 |
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SUNDAY: First Sunday Without the NFL
ABC, CBS Split
From Deadline |
On a night saddled with the lowest Sunday PUT (Persons Using Televisions) levels of the 2022-23 TV season, ABC's American Idol season opener was No. 1 in the demo, while CBS' 60 Minutes clocked in with the night's biggest audience.
Leading out of 60 Minutes (6.6 million total viewers and a 0.4 demo rating), The Equalizer (5.7 mil/0.3) returned down after a 12-week break. East New York (4.1 mil/0.2) and NCIS: LA (3.3 mil/0.3) also slipped.
Leading out of a rerun of last year's finale on NBC, Magnum P.I.'s double-episode Season 5 opener drew 3.8 mil/0.3 and 3.2 mil/0.3 — down from its Season 4 averages (5.2 mil/0.4, on Friday) to hit and match series lows for the CBS castoff.
AFV (4.4 mil/0.4) was steady. American Idol (5.1 mil/0.6) was down from its previous averages (5.65 mil/0.75). The Company You Keep debuted to just 2.3 mil and a 0.2
Fox's The Simpsons did 1.3 mil/0.3, followed by The Great North's 920K/0.2, Bob's Burgers' 980K/0.3 and Family Guy's 1 mil/0.3.
Sunday night on cable is forthcoming.
TV Line |
posted 2/20/2023 |
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Alan Carr Slams Pictures
BBC to Launch "Picture Slam"
From Deadline |
Alan Carr has landed his first primetime quiz show for the BBC, a picture format in which contestants correctly identify images.
The RuPaul's Drag Race UK judge is hosting Picture Slam from Ben Shephard and Ed De Burgh's Triple Brew Media and OMG Scotland.
Teams will be presented with a board full of images that they need to correctly identify against the clock. If they clear a full board with correct answers for a 'Picture Slam' they'll receive a cash bonus. Only the team who makes it to the final will take home any of their banked cash and, if they can find all the required pictures, they'll take home the jackpot of up to £10,000 ($12,100).
Filming begins at the new Pacific Quay Studios in Glasgow later this year.
Deadline
Radio times
BBC News
Digital SPy
Royal Television Society
Telly Mix
Video Age International
British Comedy Guide
Entertainment Focus |
posted 2/20/2023 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "President's Family Day" |
- "Match Game": an annotated history of the 7x era (Newsbreak)
- Colin Murray ends his marriage after 11 years (MSN)
- Kellie Pickler's husband found dead of self-inflicted gun shot (Variety)
- CROWNING MOMENT OF AWESOME: Lyric Medeiros's music is in her blood. Seriously, look at her father! (TV INsider) plus a tribute to a fallen Idoler (TV Line)
- Allison Holker has an update (Deadline)
- Rebel Wilson said yes! (PopSugar)
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posted 2/20/2023 |
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