The Aussie network was surprised to learn the big reality show had been cancelled in the US
NBC has cancelled its big new reality TV show Million Dollar Island before cameras have even started rolling.
TVLine reports no reason was given but there has been speculation the budget for the high-concept series was to blame.
Co-producer Studio Lambert is said to be shopping the series to other outlets but that has raised questions on whether that will affect Channel 7’s local version of the franchise.
Today, executives at Seven only found out about the NBC cancellation after being contacted by TV Blackbox.
However, the network was quick to point out that the series is self-contained and local producers are not relying on sharing of resources with NBC.
A Seven spokesperson told us:
“Million Dollar Island Australia is 100% going ahead. The casting call has attracted some great applicants, our host Ant Middleton is ready and raring to go, and filming will start soon. We can’t wait to launch it next year.”
Sources tell TV Blackbox the surprising decision for the cancellation is most likely tied into the departure of NBCU Unscripted Chief Executive Jenny Groom.
Groom suddenly departed her role after two decades with the network yesterday.
TV Blackbox understands a number of Groom’s commissions have been cancelled.
Last month Seven announced Ant Middleton would host the new show. That news came after this website broke the news in February Seven had commissioned the show.
The concept involves each contestant starting the adventure with a bracelet worth $10,000. While they are on the island, contestants can gain and lose bracelets by competing in various games.
The aim for each contestant is to collect all the other bracelets and win the $1-million prize.
