NBC, SIMON COWELL TO PRODUCE NEW SHOW

Viewers get to select winner of amateur talent competition this summer; prize is chance to headline in Las Vegas.

By Staff | February 2, 2006 | 6:56 p.m. ET.

NBC is partnering with Simon Cowell (American Idol) and FremantleMedia (American Idol) in a new variety talent competition series that allows viewers to determine who will headline a showcase Las Vegas act.

The series, which is targeted to premiere this summer, will feature contestants from across the country—who possess widely varying levels of talent—as they compete for the top prize of headlining in Las Vegas.

Cowell and FremantleMedia recently sold the series to ITV in the United Kingdom under the title Got Talent. Cowell will executive-produce the series through his SYCO TV production company in a co-production with FremantleMedia.

“Simon has his finger on the pulse of pop culture,” said Kevin Reilly, president, NBC Entertainment.

“This is a show I’ve always wanted to make,” said Cowell. “This time we’re looking for everything. Personally, I hope to find the next Siegfried and Roy! I promise this is going to be a fun ride.”

Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO FremantleMedia North America said, “We are thrilled to bring this new format to NBC. It will bring a whole new level of excitement to the talent show genre.”

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