Jessica Simpson Signs On for NBC Fashion Competition

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UNIVERSAL CITY: Jessica Simpson is to serve as a celebrity mentor on the new reality competition series Fashion Star, hosted by Elle Macpherson.

From Electus, 5×5 Media and The Magical Elves (Top Chef, Project Runway), Fashion Star will give 14 aspiring designers the chance to win a multi-million-dollar contract to launch their lines in three of America’s largest retailers. Each week, the series kicks off with a fashion show, featuring musical performances, dancers and models in front of a live studio audience. The show will be built around weekly challenges, which will push the designers to expand their brand.

Simpson will serve as a mentor for contestants. A musician, entertainer and fashion designer, Simpson has created an empire with her eponymous line that boasts 22 product categories, spanning shoes, handbags, jewelry, sunglasses and perfume.

Macpherson serves as host and executive producer. The world-renowned supermodel is the founder of a series of internationally successful ventures, including a lingerie line and a skin-care collection.

"NBC is delighted to work with singer, designer, actress and pop culture icon Jessica Simpson," said Paul Telegdy, the executive VP of alternative programming at NBC and Universal Media Studios. "With an almost billion dollar lifestyle brand under her belt she is sure to be an excellent mentor to our up-and-coming designers."

"Jessica Simpson has built an incredible fashion business and is a perfect mentor to our aspiring designers," added Ben Silverman, the CEO and founder of Electus. "She will complement the buyers, Elle Macpherson and amazing format."