Syfy Slates Reality Competition for Special-Effects Make-Up Artists

NEW YORK: Ve Neill, Glenn Hetrick and Patrick Tatopoulos are signed up as judges and McKenzie Westmore as host for the all-new reality competition series Face Off, to debut on Syfy in January 2011.

The series features 12 aspiring special-effects make-up artists competing for their shot to break out in this competitive field. The show not only incorporate effects make-up, it will include a wide range of skill sets including prosthetics, 3D design, sculpting, eye enhancers, casting and molding. It is a production of Mission Control Media.

Neill is an Academy Award-winning make-up artists in the motion-picture business. Hetrick, also a special make-up effects artist, is also the owner of Optic Nerve Studios. Tatopoulos is a director and creature design. Westmore has a long history and passion for the art of special-effects make-up as an actress on such projects as Star Trek, the soap opera Passions and Weird Science. 

Principal photography for the 8×1-hour series started in October in Los Angeles. The show will make its debut in January 2011 on Syfy.

"Syfy provides a definitive forum to showcase the imagination and artistry of this incredible field," said Mark Stern, the executive VP of original programming for Syfy and co-head of content for Universal Cable Productions. "The series will introduce twelve dynamic personalities who will display their creativity and talent through a series of weekly challenges. Given her auspicious background, McKenzie Westmore is the perfect host, and we’re honored to have such renowned figures as Glenn Hetrick, Ve Neill and Patrick Tatopoulos as our judges. Their high-standards for special effects artistry will push our contestants to the top of their game."