VH1 Amplifies its Original Programming Development to Debut a Record 44 Series in 2010

NEW YORK, April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- VH1 will produce a record 44 original series in 2010 to further build on the network's connection to young adults and their hunger for programming centered around music, celebrity and real life stories.

Year-to-date, VH1 has launched 18 series – 8 of those projects are brand new original franchises featuring such new faces to the channel as Jessica Simpson, Grammy Award-nominated Fantasia Barrino, and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas from TLC, one of the biggest-selling groups of all time, and Grammy Award-winning artist Brandy. Later in the year, VH1 will introduce more new faces such as NFL player Chad Ocho Cinco as well as shows demonstrating additional formats including "Dad Camp" and "The OCD Project." VH1 also continues to develop the previously announced scripted movie from Academy Award-nominated and Grammy and Golden Globe winner Queen Latifah's Flavor Unit Entertainment.

VH1's programming build-out reflects the network's commitment to its adult audience and what they want to see now on the network. To understand the "core of its core" audience, the network did an extensive study focusing on what VH1 calls "Gen Mix" – the young adults who make up the tail-end of Generation X and the very beginning of Gen Y or the Millennials, covering the ages between 25 and 34.

"They told us that they want to connect even more with our characters, our artists and our celebrities – but in a more genuine way. They still enjoy VH1's signature sense of fun and irreverence, but they also want more storylines that reflect the issues and challenges they are experiencing in their own lives," said Tom Calderone, President, VH1.

"As a result, we're taking our signature storytelling strengths and amplifying them through three distinct areas: music, celebrities and real life stories," said Jeff Olde, Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Production, VH1. "And we're expanding the ways we tell a story so that we have more ways to reflect on what's happening in the music and pop culture that our viewers love."

Music remains one of VH1's core offerings, making up 40 percent of the total day schedule beginning in September. The iconic "VH1 Divas" music event returns in December as a salute to American troops in a multi-platinum artist tribute being produced with the USO. "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" returns in June to honor the genre's artists from the Southern states. "Behind The Music" is back with brand new installments spotlighting Academy, Grammy®, and Golden Globe Award winners and nominees. Christina Aguilera gets the ultimate star treatment with a full night devoted to her with the premieres of her own "VH1 Storytellers" and "Behind The Music." The Emmy Award-winning "Rock Doc" series delivers new installments featuring 50 Cent and Rush. The "Friday Night Alright" concert series continues with top artists from around the world. In September, Mark McGrath begins hosting the music game show "Don't Forget The Lyrics" in a daily strip series.

VH1 Digital continues to offer extensive video including full episodes, exclusive show extras and music performances and original artist interviews on VH1.com, VH1 Mobile and VH1Classic.com. VH1.com will also continue to regularly host interactive online viewing parties tied to select series' premieres and finales where viewers can interact with other fans and show cast members online, via mobile and through Twitter. VH1.com recently welcomed Brandy, Ray J, Ken Paves, CaCee Cobb, and the cast from "TRANSform Me" to live-viewing parties to answer fan questions directly. Additionally, TheFABlife.com, BestWeekEver.tv and The VH1 Blog offer daily coverage of the latest in pop culture, music, fashion and celebrity news.

Recent music-focused digital launches include "VH1 Unplugged: Adam Lambert" and "VH1 Unplugged: The Script." Beginning today, VH1.com is inviting Christina Aguilera fans to share their stories about the Christina songs that have impacted their lives online at Storytellers.VH1.com. The best stories could be featured on-air during "VH1 Storytellers: Christina Aguilera" airing in June.

New VH1 Series Announcements

"You're Cut Off!" – Premieres Monday, June 14 at 9 PM ET/PT

What happens when you take nine spoiled young women and completely cut them off from shopping, mani-pedis and bottle service? This new series answers that when these women are removed from all cash and conveniences, forced to live as normal people do and encouraged to become productive members of society. In this "spoiled rotten rehab," the ladies must complete daily chores and learn hard lessons from life coach Laura Baron such as taking responsibility and understanding there is more to life than material wealth. VH1's "You're Cut Off" is produced By Fly on the Wall Productions. Executive producers are Allison Grodner, Rich Meehan, Amy Palmer and Rick de Oliveira.

"Money Hungry" – Summer 2010

In the spirit of VH1's successful "Celebrity Fit Club" series, 10 overweight teams of two will put their money where their mouth is on VH1's new original series "Money Hungry." Just like millions of Americans, these contestants are struggling to drop unwanted pounds. But with $10,000 of their own money at risk and a $100,000 grand prize up for grabs, this intense weight loss competition may be the incentive they need. The pair that sheds the most weight will walk away with the $100,000 pot. Created and executive produced by Cris Abrego and Ellen Rakieten. Ben Samek and Rabih Gholam also executive produce for the series.

"My Big Friggin Wedding" (working title)

"My Big Friggin Wedding" is a new VH1 docu-series that follows the high drama of five couples as they plan and execute the wildest weddings anyone has ever seen. Their budgets may not be the biggest, but their mouths sure are. And just because they're in love doesn't mean they see eye-to-eye on how it should all go down. Whether it's smoke machines and lasers or a bride that wants to be lowered from the ceiling, remember, "classy" is in the eye of the beholder. The series will be produced by 495 Productions and executive produced by Sally Ann Salsano.

"Wedding Wars" (working title)

"Wedding Wars" is a new competition-elimination series where eager engaged couples vie against one another for a dream wedding. In every episode these passionate personalities will face wedding-themed challenges. The series will be produced by 495 Productions and executive produced by Sally Ann Salsano.

"Diary of a Hip Hop Girlfriend"

This docu-soap series follows four women who share a common bond: they understand the joys and pains of being in love with a big name rapper. Sure, there's the glamorous lifestyle – full of bling, Bentleys and mansions. But behind closed doors, they struggle against shifting loyalties, baby-mama drama and the huge shadow cast by their larger-than-life partner. This 8-part series charts the women as they navigate their relationships with the men they love while they try to maintain a sense of self in the eye of the hip hop hurricane. Executive produced by Mona Scott of Monamie Entertainment and Toby Barraud and Stefan Springman of NFG-TV.

Series Pick-Up Announcements

"Fantasia for Real 2" – Q4 2010

Season 2 of "Fantasia For Real" will stay with recording artist, Broadway star and single mother Fantasia as she balances her complicated personal life with her desire to connect with her fans through music. As Fantasia works with her record label to promote her long awaited new album, she will continue trying to instill values of independence and integrity into her life and be a positive role model for her daughter Zion, older brother Teeny, no-nonsense Aunt Bunny and the rest of her family. The series is executive produced by Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato and Tom Campbell for World of Wonder and co-executive produced by Jeremy Simmons.

Eva Longoria Development Pilot : "Beso: Waiting on Fame"

One of Eva Longoria Parker's biggest passions is her Hollywood restaurant BESO. Since it is Hollywood, a lot of celebrities eat there, and a lot of aspiring celebrities work there. Beso is filled with big personalities – and that mix brings a lot of drama. This series is about the real stories of people waiting ON the famous...while waiting to BECOME famous. Created and executive produced by Cris Abrego and Eva Longoria. Ben Samek and Rabih Gholam also executive produce for the series.

"Estranged with Dr. Drew" Development Pilot With Dr. Drew

In each self-contained episode, Dr. Drew Pinsky will tackle one compelling relationship in ruins. With his guidance, the two participants discover that they must finally confront their broken relationship face-to-face in an intense and focused process that takes place over the course of day. In the end, they must decide if they want to make amends or remain estranged for good. The pilot will be produced by Picture This Television with executive producers Bryan Scott, Lisa Tucker and Leslie Goodman and Dr. Drew Productions with executive producers Dr. Drew Pinsky and Howard Lapides.

New Music Programming Announcements

"VH1 and the USO Present Divas Rock The Troops" – December 2010

VH1 is taking its most legendary music event on the road to pay homage to the many men and women who serve in the armed forces. In true VH1 Divas' fashion, a special group of female music superstars will sing their hearts out at military bases around the world. In another VH1 Divas first, the Divas will step out of their comfort zones and become soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines for a day and learn what goes into being a true American hero. "VH1 and the USO Present Divas Rock the Troops" will be an event unlike anything seen before.

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors: The Dirty South" – Monday, June 7

VH1's hugely successful annual tribute to the force that is hip hop music returns in June for a seventh time with a tribute to "The Dirty South" to honor those who infused the southern story into hip hop's global message. Jermaine Dupri, J Prince of Rap-A-Lot Records, Luther "Luke" Campbell AND 2Live Crew, Master P, and Organized Noize are all being recognized through performances in collaboration with some of today's hottest talent. Last year's edition was the highest-rated "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" yet. "VH1 Hip Hop Honors: The Dirty South" will tape on June 3rd at NYC's Hammerstein Ballroom and will air on VH1 on Monday, June 7 at 9:00 PM ET/PT.

"Behind The Music" – new episodes begin airing in June

VH1's Emmy-nominated and critically acclaimed series "Behind The Music" returns after a successful re-launch last summer with a new group of stellar artists including Golden Globe-nominated Courtney Love, Academy Award-winner Jennifer Hudson, multiple Grammy Award winner Usher, Grammy winner and actress Eve, and Golden Globe-nominated actress and performer Jennifer Lopez and DMX. VH1 has re-imagined "Behind The Music" to now focus on some of the top current artists of today who have had a major impact or contribution to the music scene from rock to hip-hop to pop.

"An Evening with Christina Aguilera" – Sunday, June 13

VH1 offers unparalleled backstage access to five-time Grammy® award winning recording artist Christina Aguilera beginning that night with an all-new "Behind the Music: Christina Aguilera" followed by the premiere of "VH1 Storytellers: Christina Aguilera." In the latest installment of VH1's successful "Behind the Music" series, fans will get a behind-the-scenes look into the life of one of pop music's biggest and most private stars. Christina will share personal stories, footage and photos, while her family, friends and colleagues open up about Christina's childhood, early career and road to superstardom. Then, following in true "VH1 Storytellers" fashion, Christina will treat some of her closest fans to a uniquely thrilling performance of some of her greatest hits as well as new songs from her latest album, "Bionic." Fans at the taping will also receive the rare opportunity to ask Christina questions about her music and hear stories on the inspiration behind her songs.

VH1's Emmy Award-Winning "Rock Doc" Franchise:

"50's Roots"

50 Cent has always been framed – and defined – by the cold grim reality of coming up in South Jamaica Queens. But 50's not merely a product of the street and his incredible, death-defying story of survival and success does not just begin with him. Like all African-Americans, there's a greater journey...across thousands of miles...back through several family generations to slavery. Here, the legendary rapper, actor and business mogul will make an unprecedented trek to the Deep South in search of his family's slave lineage. He'll re-unite with living family members, and connect the dots on his ancestral heritage. "50's Roots" is a real-time journey into past lives and a shared history...of horror and hope, pain and perseverance. "50's Roots" is produced by Roadside Entertainment.

"RUSH: Beyond the Lighted Stage" – Premieres on VH1/VH1 Classic, June 26

This world premiere gives a comprehensive exploration of the history of legendary Canadian power trio Rush – from their early days growing up in Toronto, through each of their landmark albums, to the present day. With a career spanning four decades, RUSH (Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neal Peart) is one of the most successful bands in the history of popular music, but despite their remarkable career achievements, they have never been critics' darlings. Directors Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn interview the band's admirers and contemporaries, including Gene Simmons, Billy Corgan, Sebastian Bach, Jack Black, and others and also deliver rare backstage and concert footage.

"Let's Spend the Night Together: Confessions of Rock's Greatest Groupies" – Premieres Q4, 2010

Told through the eyes of rock and roll historian and super groupie Pamela Des Barres, author of the famous 1987 tell-all I'm With The Band, this 90-minute documentary offers memories of her sexual exploits and longtime escapades with such notorious rockers as Mick Jagger, Jim Morrison and Jimmy Page. This work is not only a tribute to the golden age of groupies, but also the golden age of rock 'n roll.  Pamela's new book Let's Spend the Night Together: Confessions of Rock's Greatest Groupies provides the framework for this new documentary which follows Pamela as she visits many of these legendary women who re-emerge to share their intimate stories and the unexpected human side of their relationships with rock gods. Produced by Creature Films.

"Friday Night Alright" Concert Series – Friday nights, 11 PM ET/PT

VH1 continues to deliver new A-list concert performances from around the globe in its hit concert series "Friday Night Alright." The network kicked off 2010 with this series, showcasing concert specials form acts like Madonna, U2, and Taylor Swift. New shows coming up include Usher, Lady Gaga, Lady Antebellum and Stone Temple Pilots.

"100 Greatest Artists Of All Time" – Fall 2010

For decades, there have been countless arguments about who deserves the title of the greatest music artist ever. Now VH1's "100 Greatest Artists of All Time" is out to settle the debate once and for all. This 5-hour special will rank the biggest acts in music ranging from all genres including rock, pop, rap, and metal. Over ten years ago, VH1 asked music experts to pick the 100 greatest artists in the channel's first countdown special. New music, artists and trends have emerged since this historical list. VH1 asked an academy of musicians and music journalists again to see which music pioneers still matter and which new artists rate amongst the greatest of this era.

Previously Announced 2010 New Series and Projects

• Executive Producer Queen Latifah's movie project in development with Flavor Unit Entertainment.

• "Dad Camp" – A docu-reality series that tries to transform 6 irresponsible soon-to-be dads into respectable fathers. Premieres Monday, May 31.

• "Don't Forget The Lyrics" – Musical game show hosted by music artist and former "Extra!" co-host Mark McGrath. Premieres in September.

• "Football Wives" – In the spirit of VH1's hit series "Basketball Wives," the series will focus on the women behind the men who play the nation's most popular sport.

• "Ocho Cinco"(working title) – Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver and "Dancing With The Stars" contestant Chad Ocho Cinco (formerly Chad Johnson) pursues happiness off the field. Premieres Sunday, July 11.

• "The OCD Project" – From 3 Ball Productions, this new series centers on patients impacted by obsessive compulsive disorder living together as they strive to overcome their affliction.

• "Scream Queens 2" – Ten more aspiring actresses will get the chance to win a breakthrough role in "Saw 3D," the next film in Lionsgate's iconic "Saw" horror franchise. Premieres Monday, August 9.

• "The T.O. Show" (season 2) – After his one season with the Bills, Terrell Owens is once again faced with finding another team in the off-season while having the chance to reconnect with his kids, as well as his ex, Kari. Debuts Sun., July 11.

• "Do Something Awards" – VH1 has partnered with DoSomething.org to televise live the 2010 Do Something Awards on Monday, July 19, 2010 at 9 PM from Los Angeles. The five nominees for the Do Something Award will be rewarded with a community grant with the grand prize winner receiving $100,000.

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with TV series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 95 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital channels and services including VH1Classic, VH1 Soul, VH1.com and VH1 Mobile. Connect with VH1 at VH1.com.

SOURCE VH1