NEW YORK – May 17, 2012 – USA Network is extending its audience reach by diving into the reality genre with the pilot pick-up of BRIDE OR BEST MAN (working title) from Shed Media. In addition, ROMANCING THE GLOBE, a new relationship series is in development from acclaimed executive producer Mark Burnett. The slate also includes two previously announced projects – the pilot for THE CHOIR, and the recently greenlit series THE MOMENT. This announcement was made today by USA Co-Presidents Chris McCumber and Jeff Wachtel.
“As we move into the world of reality programming, we’re staying true to our brand DNA by focusing on real life characters that are every bit as fascinating, inspirational and entertaining as our scripted ones,†said McCumber and Wachtel. “These unscripted series let us welcome characters of all types, which will continue to broaden our appeal to audiences.â€
USA’s upcoming reality slate includes:
BRIDE OR BEST MAN (working title) – A “bromantic comedy” with a twist, this series highlights a trip down the aisle that goes completely wrong when the Groom and his Best Man are left in charge of planning the ‘big day.’ Shed Media produces.
ROMANCING THE GLOBE – A new spin on the relationship format, this series takes participants on a globe-trotting search for love that leads to the potential of ultimate betrayal. Executive produced by acclaimed executive producer Mark Burnett and his One Three Media.
Previously announced projects:
THE CHOIR – Series follows accomplished UK choirmaster Gareth Malone as he embraces various American communities and assembles a choir made up of the most unexpected mix of individuals. Malone believes in the transformative power of music and uses choirs as a way to bring people together, raise morale, and restore a sense of pride in community. The journey is both comedic and emotional with each episode culminating in an orchestrated choir performance. Malone began his career leading choirs for the London Symphony Orchestra and since then, has gone on to win an International Emmy and numerous BAFTAs as well as recently having an album top the UK pop charts. Shed Media produces.
THE MOMENT – Each week the show’s host, Super Bowl MVP Kurt Warner, will give someone a second chance to pursue the career they’ve always wanted. From race car driving to orchestra conducting to deep sea diving, everyday people will leave behind the comforts of home and leap into a whirlwind of training under the expert guidance of world-class mentors who will help them prepare for the audition of a lifetime. If they succeed, they will either accept the job that will change their lives forever – or return to their loved ones, realizing that they’ve been living the dream all along. Warner has had an equally triumphant personal story, famously going from bagging groceries to being named Super Bowl MVP in just 18 months. Justin Hochberg and Charlie Ebersol of The Hochberg Ebersol Company (THE Company) produce.
For gallery and episodic photos of all USA projects, please log on to the NBC Universal Media Village at http://www.nbcumv.com/.