Lip Sync Battle breaks out in Africa

MTV in Africa is getting its own version of parent Viacom’s global format hit Lip Sync Battle.

Viacom International Media Networks Africa is lining up Lip Sync Battle Africa, which marks the first time an international MTV channel has taken a local version of the pop-culture hit.

Globally, Lip Sync Battle has sold to more than 30 territories, while the original US version has aired in more than 120 territories.

In Africa, Lip Sync Battle will debut next month on MTV and e.tv, with actress, radio DJ, model and TV personality Pearl Thusi and Nigerian music legend D’Banj hosting.

“We are thrilled to localise this global hit franchise for Africa for the first time,” said Alex Okosi, senior VP and managing director of VIMN Africa.

“With D’Banj and Pearl Thusi at the helm, Lip Sync Battle Africa is certain to follow the success of the original series produced by Spike in the United States and other winning formats such as those in the United Kingdom, Canada and Chile, to name a few.”

The UK version launched in January on Viacom-owned Channel 5 and is scoring 22% shares among 16-34s.