The Weakest Link Headed to New Territories

LONDON: BBC Worldwide has closed deals on The Weakest Link format in two new territories, with Macedonia and Armenia set to localize the hit game show.

In Armenia, Hay TV will make 90 40-minute episodes to air over two seasons, slated to premiere later this year. In Macedonia, Alpha TV is churning out 33 half-hour episodes for a prime-time weekly slot, launching later this spring.

Macedonia’s version will feature Zivkica Gurcinoska—host of the Eurovision Song Contest and various talk shows—as the game-leader.

Gurcinoska commented: “I cannot wait to unleash my inner bitch on The Weakest Link! People in Macedonia think I am the perfect person to host this show because of my naturally acerbic and slightly sarcastic presenting style. I am choosing to take that as a compliment!

“I am sure viewers in Macedonia will enjoy the game show and help it become a big success. I hope I will be able to do Anne Robinson proud, though I am still trying to think of my own trademark wink.”

Elin Thomas, the VP for format licensing for EMEA at BBC Worldwide, said: “The Weakest Link is an evergreen format that travels well. Broadcasters appreciate it because of its simplicity. The show is easy to produce and audiences have no trouble understanding the game. A quirky presenter adds to the appeal, I think Zivkica will be a fantastic host and will have Macedonian contestants quivering.”