Tuesday 17 January 2012

Bauer behind wannabe journalists reality tv show


Bauer Media has joined forces with production company Twofour to create a new reality show called The Exclusives for ITV2 in which six wannabe journalists compete for a one year contract with the magazine publisher, which produces titles such as Closer, heat and FHM.

According to a Bauer press release: "The Exclusives’ will showcase the fast-paced and competitive world of magazine publishing, plus the kind of talent needed to make it."

It adds: "Each trainee will learn to hone their skills working closely with the successful teams behind some of the UK’s best known magazines including heat, FHM, Closer, more!, Kerrang! and Empire. They will be given incredible backstage access to some of the most high profile and glamorous events of the year, and will be coached and mentored in the crafts of interviewing, organising photo shoots and connecting with their reader."

Bauer Media says it will cover and promote the programme across its magazine, online and radio portfolios. The series of seven one-hour programmes is made by the Twofour team behind Educating Essex and will be broadcast later this year.

Abby Carvosso, MD lifestyle & advertising, Bauer Media, commented: “This breakthrough media partnership will deliver an exciting new TV programme that shows what it really takes to create the most exciting magazines in the country. We’re on the hunt for a gutsy, fearless and talented individual who stands out from the crowd and we’re sure it will be a great watch!"
  • I asked Bauer if the six wannabe journalists would be paid, or was it like work experience? A spokeswoman told me: "The six journalists do not get paid during the show so in a sense yes, it can be seen as work experience but with the added opportunity to gain a full time contract with Bauer Media. The winner of the 12-month journalism contract with Bauer Media will of course be paid for their job."

2 comments:

Patrick Smith said...

Jon - don't forget that ITV has been down this road before and it didn't work out. Granada was at one point going to make Kelvin's Local Newspaper Nightmares, featuring the titular Sun supremo: http://www.pressgazette.co.uk/story.asp?storyCode=36437&sectioncode=1.

Will this Bauer project see the light of day? Will they find 12 people who want to work for free for 12 months? I am doubtful.

Jon Slattery said...

Patrick,

In the current climate I don't think they'll have much trouble. Look how many journalism students are doing work experience and internships without pay.

Regards, Jon S.