Dyke will front C4 TV talent search

Published Friday 23 June 2006 at 15:50 by Liz Thomas

Former BBC director-general Greg Dyke is to front a new Channel 4 reality show, which will offer one person the opportunity to break into the television industry as the final prize.

The six part series, under the working title Get Me The Producer, will see 12 hopefuls work within a different television genre each week and be challenged to bring their own ideas to life. They will also have the chance to work with top presenters and producers.

“It’s really important that we have a constant flow of fresh ideas and new talent into the television industry. Unfortunately it’s still very difficult for young people to get into the business and there is a feeling that it’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” said Dyke. “I think it’s time to change that and if we can find some exciting new talent along the way then I’ll be delighted.”

In a style similar to the Alan Sugar format The Apprentice, Greg Dyke will oversee the process with the help of two specially chosen television executives who will give expert advice to the two teams of fledgling producers.

The winning candidate will win a 12-month contract with a top television production company. Candidates must be able to commit to an eight week filming period, commencing in September this year.

“We want people with a burning ambition to work in television who have lots of original ideas,” said Martyn Smith, series producer. “It’s not going to be for the faint-hearted because creating TV shows from scratch and making them work is easier said than done. There is a great prize on offer but it will only go to someone who can prove themselves to be exceptionally talented”