Facebook Orders ‘Loosely Exactly Nicole’ Series, Reality Competition
It’s official – Facebook is finally making the leap into its own original series. Not only has the social network picked up a scripted comedy by rescuing MTV’s Loosely Exactly Nicole, but also a new reality competition from American Ninja Warrior producers.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Facebook is near a deal to revive the Nicole Byer MTV comedy four months after its cancellation. A writers room has reportedly already opened for the family comedy based on Byer’s life, with certain cast and showrunner Christine Zander lined up to return.
Additionally, new reality competition Last State Standing has begun production in Los Angeles, though no premiere date or episode count has been confirmed. The series comes from American Ninja Warrior producers A. Smith and Co.’s Arthur Smith, and follows fifty contestants (one from each state) competing in “unique and crazy games for a chance to win a $500,000 cash prize.”
Facebook is reportedly planning two types of original programming for its video rollout, including shortform series from digital producers like BuzzFeed, and “hero” projects that amount to full television-quality programs. In the latter’s case, the social media giant is said to spend upwards of six figures an episode to retain ownership.
Facebook’s video efforts are expected to roll out over the summer, so stay tuned for news of additional projects. Have a look at Loosely Exactly Nicole in the meantime.