Millionaire, Weakest Link execs draw Shortest Straw

Norway’s TV2 is attached the first major format pilot from UK-based development firm Boxatricks, with the co-creator of The Weakest Link attached.

TV2 and the Israel-based TV Format Fund are backing the production of The Shortest Straw, with distributor Nordic World set to begin selling the format at MIPCOM in October. Additional unnamed investors are also involved in the project.

The format sees six contestants answer multiple choice questions to win a cash prizes. However, for every wrong answer they are forced to enter a ‘straw chamber’, where they can eliminated if they pick the ‘shortest straw’.

Michael Whitehill and David Briggs, who created Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? and launched Boxatricks with ex-Hat Trick Productions entertainment boss Colman Hutchinson in 2013, has worked up Shortest Straw with The Weakest Link co-creator Fintan Coyle.

The 60-minute studio pilot will be produced this August and recorded at Pinewood TV studios. Hutchinson and Briggs are producing, with Ian Hamilton directing and former boyband singer Nicky Byrne hosting.

Furthermore, a Spanish-language version from Madrid-based producer Inspira Content will be produced at Pinewood.

Nordic World is distributing the UK version after scoring a format representation deal with Boxatricks in January 2014.