NBC Greenlights Yet Another Singing Competition, 'The Winner Is'

Tim Kenneally
NBC Greenlights Yet Another Singing Competition, 'The Winner Is'

The success of "The Voice" has given NBC something to really sing about -- and it looks like the network is hoping lightning will strike twice.

NBC is launching another singing competition, "The Winner Is," which will pit aspiring singers of all ages against each other in pursuit of a $1 million prize. In a seemingly familiar development, the singers will be judged by an in-studio panel led by one celebrity judge. (The celebrity is yet to be determined.)

Also read: "American Idol" Reclaims Top Ratings Spot From "The Voice"

The twist for "The Winner Is" is that the contestants, along with singing, will also have the opportunity to negotiate along the way. Should they feel that their most recent performance isn't up to snuff, they can exit the show for instant cash, à la "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," or await the jury results to see if they made it to the next round and a shot at the grand prize. Each round will be worth an increasing amount of money.

Also read: 'The Voice' Is Top-Rated Show of the Season -- Can 'American Idol' Regain Lead?

Perhaps not coincidentally, the series will be executive-produced by John De Mol, creator and producer of "The Voice."

"We are thrilled to be working with John de Mol, the creator and one of the producers of 'The Voice,' on this original singing game show that will feature a broad range of talent, dueling performers and the surprise of in-the-moment negotiations and decisions," Paul Telegdy, president, alternative and late night programming for NBC, said of the venture. "Talented singers and the show's surprising competitive twist, with the possibility of negotiating a deal to step out of the game, will have viewers engaged and entertained."

"The Winner Is" comes via Talpa Media USA, the company that's also behind NBC's version of "The Voice."

A premiere date for the series has not yet been announced.

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