Celebrity Song Challenge Optioned in Germany, Italy

Vivendi Entertainment has landed a pair of options on its new prime-time entertainment show Celebrity Song Challenge, signing deals in Italy with Endemol Shine and Germany with Tower Productions.

The format is the latest creation of DMLS TV for TF1. In Celebrity Song Challenge, everything starts online, as A-list celebrities (singers, actors, athletes, etc.) challenge each other through video messages via social networks in order to perform a given song. But it’s not just about singing—it’s about tackling a new musical genre that’s completely at the opposite of the performer’s repertoire.

Matthieu Porte, executive VP of international and development at Vivendi Entertainment, said: “For the first time, a broadcaster can take advantage of the millions of fans following the biggest celebrities, in order to build-up momentum from the time the challenges are set, all the way down to the airing date and the mind blowing performances, in front of a live audience.”

Orsetta Violante Balsamo, the head of acquisitions and international at Endemol Shine Italy, added: “Vivendi Entertainment is presenting a great slate of formats at MIPCOM and we’re glad they have chosen us to adapt Celebrity Song Challenge for Italy. Celebrity Song Challenge is a simple and effective shiny floor competition that definitely fits our needs.”

Dietlinde Stroh, the managing director at Tower Productions, said: “I am enthusiastic about the creative power of artists and musicians and looking forward to fresh and new unique live show events with strong unique performances. I especially like the new twist and fun the challenges will have in social media beforehand. There is the special thing about linear television combined with a huge social media activity you only get when you are live on air. That’s linear TV at its best. Celebrity Song Challenge fits perfectly into the portfolio of Tower Productions.”