BBC orders ‘Lightning’ quiz format

BBC Two has ordered a new entertainment format, Lightning, hosted by comic Zoe Lyons, to play in a late afternoon, teatime slot.

Devised and produced by Banijay Group’s Fizz and Northern Ireland-based Nice One TV, the 25×30-minute Lightning is billed as a fast-paced and frantic format that sees the traditional quiz show collide with gameshow, and leaves contestants’ nerves in tatters.

Six challengers battle it out across six rounds while a spotlight patrols the studio eliminating contestants. The challengers’ motivation is to do whatever it takes to stay out of the light.

With dramatic lightning and a thundering soundtrack, Lightning combines quick-fire questions with physical trials. Contestants strive to reach an ultimate goal of £3,000 prize money.

Lightning is filmed in Northern Ireland with support from Northern Ireland Screen.

The executive producers are Neale Simpson (Fizz) and Chris Jones (Nice One).  It was commissioned by Carla-Maria Lawson, BBC head of daytime and early peak, and Muslim Alim, commissioning editor BBC daytime and early-peak.

Carla-Maria Lawson, BBC head of daytime and early peak said: “The pace and the calibre of competition in Lightning along with Zoe’s energy and wit, will bring a real buzz to BBC Two teatimes”.