NBC Universal strikes pair of format deals with Vietnam’s VTV

NBCUniversal International Formats has struck two deals for local remakes of entertainment shows with Vietnamese network VTV.

The first will see a local version of Japanese format Who Is The Real Celebrity (WITRC) (pictured) launch on VTV.

Produced by MEGA GS Communication and Entertainment, the 13×75’ version titled AI LÀ BẬC THẦY CHÍNH HIỆU will air on Fridays at 9pm on channel VTV 3.

Originally produced by Japan’s Asahi Broadcasting Corporation, WITRC is a comedy game show that tests celebrities’ knowledge and ability of identifying luxury items that come with a first class lifestyle. It sees six groups of celebrities compete in a series of challenges using only their five senses.

The show has played in Japan for over a decade. NBCUniversal International Formats acquired the rights to the format from ABC International, a subsidiary of Asahi Broadcasting Group Holdings Corporation.

NBCUniversal International Formats has also signed a deal with MEGA GS Communication and Entertainment to bring a local version of Singer Auction to VTV. Originally co-developed with Thailand’s ZenseEntertainment, Singer Auction is a primetime entertainment format that gives unknown vocalists the opportunity to showcase their talent.

The 13×75’ Vietnamese version will also air weekly at 9pm on VTV 3 in July.

Ana Langenberg, SVP, Format Sales & Production at NBCUniversal International Formats  said: “We acquired the hit Japanese series Who Is The Real Celebrity because we saw great potential in the format, particularly across other territories in Asia. Our co-developed format Singer Auction also has the potential to achieve similar success in Vietnam, so we’re really excited to see how MEGA GS’ adaptations perform. Both deals and shows are a testament to the rich diversity of television across Asia.”

Miss Vu Thi Bich Lien, CEO of MEGA GS Communication and Entertainment added: “We are confident these two shows will appeal to our audience due to their entertainment and comedic elements.”