NBC to Roll Out Circus-Based Celeb Talent Series

BURBANK, January 21: NBC has signed on for an American
version of Endemol’s Celebrity Circus
format, which has already rolled out in Argentina on Telefe and in Portugal on
TVI.

The live competition series, to be produced by Endemol USA,
challenges celebrities to participate alongside professional circus troupes in
visually engaging performances. Currently being sold around the world, the show
has already seen successful launches in Portugal and Argentina.

The new series joins NBC’s lineup of year-round original
programming, and is part of NBC’s All-American Summer, in the run-up to the
network’s exclusive coverage of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing,
China.

“This show will draw our favorite celebrities out of their
comfort zone and into a stunning and magical circus environment that allows
them to showcase their unseen skills,” said Craig Plestis, the executive VP of
alternative programming, development and specials at NBC Entertainment. “It’s a
fresh concept from our friends at Endemol and is unlike anything else currently
in the TV landscape.”

“We are extremely excited to be bringing this show to
American audiences,” said David Goldberg, the president of Endemol USA. “Every
week this show will bring big thrills and bigger entertainment to our audience
who can look forward to some very adventurous television.”

—By Kristin Brzoznowski