Channel 7 to produce Thai Dancing with the Stars

Thai broadcaster Channel 7 is to air a local version of BBC Worldwide’s hit reality format Dancing with the Stars.

This marks the 43rd local production of the dancing format across six continents.

The Thai version of the show will include 7x90mins episodes and launch in January. It will be produced by Metine Company (MCL) and Kantana Group and will be funded by Thai hotel chain Amari.

Richard Halliwell, commercial director for Dancing with the Stars at BBC Worldwide, said: “This is an exciting deal for us as it reaffirms the global popularity of the format. We were really keen to work with a local partner using a funding model that has huge success in this market. Many of our commercial rivals have benefited with advertiser-funded models in Asia and we’re looking forward to creating our own success story at BBC Worldwide, starting with Dancing with the Stars in Thailand.”

Peter Henley, president and CEO of Amari owner ONYX Hospitality Group, added: “We are thrilled to be partnering with BBC Worldwide to bring such a globally successful TV show to Thailand. What better way to bring the colours and rhythms of modern Asia to life than through the medium of dance and music. We look forward to embracing Dancing with the Stars and introducing the energy and excitement of the show to our Amari guests and the Thai viewing public.”