ABC Orders Ricky Gervais Game Show With Kids ‘Five To Survive’ From Banijay
ABC has given a series order to Five to Survive, an hourlong game show from The Office’s Ricky Gervais and Banijay Studios North America.
Five to Survive is an original studio-based game show that features one adult contestant who must answer 10 questions correctly to earn the top prize. If they answer incorrectly, the contestant has a chance to be saved by a group of five kids who have been asked the same question. Asking the questions is none other than Gervais who interacts with the kids as they assist the grown-up contestants with their answers for a chance to win the large cash prize. The adult contestant will be joined in the studio by a host whose search is underway.
“I’ve never understood the saying ‘never work with animals or children.’ said Gervais. “As a producer and director, I prefer either to Hollywood actors. They’re cheaper, they do as they’re told, and the filming hours are better.”
Reality shows featuring kids have been very popular, from Fox’s MasterChef Jr. and So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation to NBC’s Little Big Shots.
“When Ricky presented his idea for Five to Survive, we immediately knew this was a project that needed to land here at ABC,” said Robert Mills, SVP, Alternative Series, Specials, & Late Night Programming, ABC Entertainment. “It has spirit, it’s fun and it will have the unforgettable comedic moniker that is Ricky Gervais.”
The show likely will feature a PG version of Gervais, known for his racy jokes as showcased in his hosting stints at the Golden Globes. Gervais executive produces Five to Survive with David Goldberg and Caroline Baumgard, chief creative officer, Banijay Studios North America.
“At its core, Five to Survive is a high stakes Q&A game show with the unpredictable twist of contestants putting their earning potential in the hands of children. said Goldberg, Banijay Group President and CEO, Banijay Studios North America.
Banijay Studios North America also is producing Jimmy Kimmel’s upcoming primetime game show Big Fan and What Happens at the Abbey.
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