NBC to Reinvent American Gladiators

BURBANK, August 24: A modern reinvention of the classic
competition series American Gladiators,
which aired in syndication from 1989 to 1996, will be produced by MGM
Television and Reveille for a prime-time slot on NBC.

A broadcast date for the series has not been announced, but
it is expected to premiere mid-season in prime time. American Gladiators originated as a weekly syndicated show from MGM in
the early 90s. The success of the show also led to international versions in
the U.K., Latin America, Australia, Germany, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, South
Africa and Japan.

The refreshed version will return with new twists like
special effects, water skills and the latest technology. The classic games will
be upgraded with even higher thrills, impact, energy and spectacle. Like the
original franchise, the new series will see everyday amateur athletes compete
against eight new “gladiators” (four men and four women) who are action stars
and stunt professionals, in contests of physical strength and endurance. The
series will include such classic events as The Joust, The Wall, Hang Tough and
the Eliminator.

MGM Television will handle international sales of the series
and will assist Reveille in setting up locally produced versions outside of the
U.S. American Gladiators is currently
casting for contestants.

“This memorable series was once a worldwide phenomenon, and
given its built-in appeal, we feel it's time to re-introduce it to a new
generation and take it to a heightened level of excitement for fans of all
ages,” said Craig Plestis, the executive VP of alternative programming,
development and specials at NBC Entertainment. “The Gladiator brand is unlike anything on television today, and is
event programming at its biggest and best.”

Added Jim Packer, the co-president of MGM Worldwide
Television: “American Gladiators is a
successful MGM franchise that is ready for a whole new generation of TV
viewers. The timing to bring the franchise back is perfect and NBC is the ideal
home. We are also excited about partnering with Reveille, which marks the first
time we have teamed together on a co-production.”