Oz Co-Commission for Common Sense

SYDNEY: Foxtel and Network Ten have jointly commissioned the topical news format Common Sense, from the creators of Gogglebox, for broadcast in 2017.

Common Sense will feature a cast of real people who share their reactions and opinions about the most-talked-about topics and newsworthy events of the week. The show, which was created by all3media’s Studio Lambert, will be produced by Endemol Shine Australia. It will debut first on Foxtel’s Lifestyle, followed by its premiere on Network Ten.

Hannah Barnes, the general manager of the Lifestyle Group, said: “We are thrilled to add this new and exciting series to our local production lineup. Common Sense is a distinctive and brilliant new companion to the hugely successful Gogglebox, which has been a monumental ratings hit for Lifestyle.

“Common Sense will expand the genre created by Gogglebox, and allow us to get out on the road and into the very different workplaces we have in Australia. The new series will give Foxtel customers and lovers of Lifestyle an insight into the quips and quirks of Australian workmates.”

Beverley McGarvey, Network Ten’s chief content officer, noted: “Gogglebox has been an outstanding success for Network Ten, with every season increasing its audience, and we know that viewers will embrace this engaging and entertaining new show.

“While the Goggleboxers provide an insight into television from the comfort of their own homes, Common Sense will head into the workplace to find what everyday Australians are thinking and saying about the issues of the day.

“We are delighted to be working with Foxtel and Endemol Shine Australia on a show that, like Gogglebox, will get Australia talking.”

Sabrina Duguet, all3media International’s executive VP for the Asia Pacific, added: “We are delighted that the success of Gogglebox has led to such a positive response for Common Sense and we can think of no better home for this new, distinctive series.

“The arrangement marks the third commission for the series before its domestic transmission, which speaks to the power of the creativity of our sister company, Studio Lambert.”

Common Sense has also been commissioned by BBC Two in the U.K. and NBC in the U.S. Casting for the Australian version is currently under way.