Television
November 25, 2002
The WB To Keep It Real In January
(November 25, 2002 – Burbank, CA) – The WB Network will ring in the new year with two high-concept reality series “HIGH SCHOOL REUNION” and “THE SURREAL LIFE.” “HIGH SCHOOL REUNION,” which is one hour, will premiere on Sunday, January 5 at 9 p.m. and air again on Thursday, January 9 at 8 p.m. The show will remain in that viewer-friendly twice-a-week pattern throughout its six-episode run. “THE SURREAL LIFE” will premiere on Thursday, January 9 at 9 p.m. with back-to-back half-hour episodes and settle into its regular Thursday, 9:30 p.m. slot on January 16. The announcements were made today during The WB’s November Sweep conference call by Jordan Levin, President, Entertainment of The WB.
“We got an early jump on the broadcast season, and our aggressive strategy helped The WB get off to the best start of any network,” Mr. Levin said. “We hope that by maintaining our first-move advantage this midseason we will continue our season-long momentum.”
“HIGH SCHOOL REUNION,” from Mike Fleiss, who created “The Bachelor” takes 17 members of the Oak Park and River Forest High School in Illinois Class of ’92 to an estate on Maui. Former classmates have the chance to pursue their secret high school crush; get revenge on the bully who made high school unbearable; to show off a new and improved body; or maybe even fall in love.
“THE SURREAL LIFE” brings together many pop culture icons – MC Hammer (“Can’t Touch This”), Emmanuel Lewis (“Webster”), Brande Roderick (“Baywatch”), Corey Feldman (“Stand By Me,” “The Goonies”), Gabrielle Carteris (“Beverly Hills 90210”), Vince Neil (Motley Crue) and Jerri Manthey (“Survivor II”).
“Mike Fleiss has proven he knows story, creates breakthrough concepts and has tapped into the psyche of the viewing public,” Mr. Levin said. “I am truly excited to be working with him on this project. High School is relatable to everyone and it’s fascinating to watch these 17 people interact 10 years later. “THE SURREAL LIFE” was a project we jumped at as soon as we heard the concept. The only thing that remained was to see if the cast participated in the spirit that was intended and they did not disappoint."
“HIGH SCHOOL REUNION” is produced by Next Entertainment in association Telepictures Productions. “SURREAL LIFE” is produced by Renegade Entertainment in association with Brass Ring Productions and Mindless Entertainment. # # #