ABC Plans Supernanny Spin-Off

LOS ANGELES, August 20: A spin-off of the positive-parenting
series Supernanny is in the works, and
ABC plans to air a pilot episode this fall.

The spin-off’s format will remain similar to the original,
but rather than a female professional nanny, the series will feature a male
child-development expert. Supermanny
will center on child therapist Mike Ruggles as he lends advice to families who
need guidance for dealing with their children’s bad behavior. Ruggles’ approach
is to encourage parents to learn how to play with their kids and get to know
them.

“With a guy, he can connect with dads in a different kind of
way," said executive producer Nick Emmerson. "It's really powerful
stuff."

Emmerson continued: "It feels different to have a guy
come in to work with your kids. A woman has a woman's touch, and people are
more accepting and ready for her advice. We had to find the right person who
has real authority and a gentle touch as well."

—By Kristin Brzoznowski