News round-up: Malta’s TVM orders ‘The Voice Kids’; Paprika extends Hypewriter deadline; BET launches Mandela YouTube show  

Malta’s TVM orders ‘The Voice Kids’

Malta’s public broadcaster TVM has commissioned a local version of The Voice Kids.

Produced by Greatt Company, the 11-part series will debut in the fall and marks the 43^rd territory for the musical format.

Based on the global hit The Voice, The Voice Kids features the same thrilling blind auditions and electrifying battles. Following the nation’s best young vocalists as they try to impress three of the country’s top recording artists in the hope of becoming the ultimate winner.

Paprika extends Hypewriter deadline

Hungary’s Paprika Studios has extended the application period of its Hypewriter international series pitch until 20 July for the benefit of late applicants.

The purpose of the pitch forum is to find new, compelling ideas. There are no restrictions in genre, and Hypewriter welcomes ideas from anyone, anywhere in the world – whether seasoned professionals or applicants who’ve never submitted anything before.

The prize is 10,000 euros and the production of a pilot show, presented on air by RTL Hungary, based on their idea.

BET launches Mandela YouTube show

BET is debuting The Mandela Project, a five-part documentary about the legacy of Nelson Mandela on its YouTube channel next week.

Launching on 18 July, the series is produced in Africa by Paramount’s international studio, VIS, through the YouTube Originals Black Voices Fund in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Shurwin Beckford serves as showrunner.

The series sees famous faces including TV personality, chef and musician Big Zuu; international soccer star Patrice Evra, Blackish star Marsai Martin and the new Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Jabari Banks explore a different project focused on a subject close to their heart.

They will meet the people central to making a meaningful difference to their communities across the UK, US and South Africa, with the whole story linked to the man who has inspired them – Nelson Mandela.

The series will also feature unheard anecdotes and personal stories from Mandela’s grandson, Ndaba.