Despite being fierce rivals for over a decade, Simon Cowell is team up with the BBC to produce a brand new dance talent show.
‘The Greatest Dancer’ will see dancers from all different genres compete in the hope of winning the title of the best dancer in the UK.
Produced by Cowell’s company Syco, along with Thames (the entertainment arm of FremantleMediaUK), the show will comprise eight, one-hour episodes and is expected to launch later in the year.
“The BBC is undoubtedly the home of dance.” Kate Phillips, the BBC’s entertainment commissioner said today in a statement.
“By launching ‘The Greatest Dancer’ we want to give the vast array of dance talent across the UK the chance to shine.”
“I can’t wait to work with Syco and Thames to uncover the talent out there and let our audience critique and celebrate the nation’s unsung dance heroes.”
Nigel Hall, Syco Entertainment’s global Head of Television, added “the auditions for the pilot episode saw some of the most jaw dropping, heartfelt and moving auditions I’ve ever seen on a dance show.”
“There are some spectacular moments and we are beyond thrilled to have secured this commission over fierce competition.”
“We look forward to working with the BBC team on something just a little bit special.”
A pilot for the show filmed earlier in the year, saw Alesha Dixon and Ashley Banjo taking on hosting duties, with former X Factor star Cheryl, Glee star Matthew Morrison and Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse featured on the judging panel.
No official word has been given as to whether any have signed on to star on the show full time.
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