NBC Recharges 'American Gladiators'

Zap2It.com | August 23, 2007

Ben Silverman

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Redo of '90s syndicated show on midseason track

"American Gladiators" is returning to television, bringing all its spandex-clad glory not to syndication but to network primetime.

NBC is pushing forward with a new take on the show, which initially ran in syndication from 1989-97. As with the previous incarnation, the new "American Gladiators" will pit amateur athletes against a group of well-muscled regulars in a number of physical contests.

The network ran a promo for the show during "Last Comic Standing" Wednesday night and has applications for prospective contestants on its web site. The show is on the path to a midseason premiere.

"This memorable series was once a worldwide phenomenon, and given its built-in appeal, we feel it's time to re-introduce it to a new generation and take it to a heightened level of excitement for fans of all ages," says Craig Plestis, NBC's alternative-programming chief. "The 'gladiator' brand is unlike anything on television today, and is event programming at its biggest and best."

NBC co-chairman Ben Silverman worked on developing a new version of the series in his old job as head of production company Reveille. He told reporters at last month's TV press tour that the network was pursuing the show, and now the deal is done.

Reveille will still be involved in the show, producing it alongside MGM Worldwide TV. Mark Koops, Howard Owens, David Hurwitz ("Fear Factor") and "Gladiators" creator Johnny Ferraro will serve as executive producers.

The new show is expected to incorporate a number of elements from the old series, along with a greater focus on the men and women competing against the gladiators.