Star Academy Returning to TF1

After a nine-year hiatus, Endemol France will bring the entertainment competition format Star Academy back to the country.

The French series for TF1 will be fronted by the original host Nikos Aliagas. The casting call attracted 10,000 registrants in just 48 hours.

In this format, a school of excellence will offer the passionate and talented contestants—singing, dancing, acting—an intensive training program surrounded by the best teachers. Every day, viewers will be able to follow the progress of the students in a daily show on TF1. At the end of each week, the emerging talent will showcase what they’ve learned during prime time. A panel of judges and the viewers will decide who stays and who goes.

Endemol France has called on DMLS TV, another label within Banijay, to produce.

Originally created by Endemol France, Star Academy has sold to 19 territories, including Italy and the Middle East, where 11 seasons have aired.

Jean-Louis Blot, CEO of Endemol France, said: “Star Academy delivers some of the most revered music training in the industry, and we can’t wait to showcase a new generation of French talent. The exciting live performances, combined with the expert training the artists will receive, make an entertaining show for all the family.”

Mathieu Vergne, CEO of DMLS TV, commented: “Producing entertainment formats is in our DNA, and it is a pleasure to work alongside Endemol France to bring this hit to viewers. We’re ecstatic to have Nikos Aliagas on board and to be reinvigorating the format, following the success of the 20th anniversary last year.”

Lucas Green, global head of content operations at Banijay, added: “The Star Academy format is a proven success around the globe, showcasing new talent, reality elements and an exciting competition. With Endemol France and DMLS TV’s expertise in this genre, audiences can expect an unmissable series.”