French network orders Popstars

Screentime format Popstars

Canal+’s French digital network D8 has ordered a local version of the Popstars singing competition format.

The format was created by Screentime, which is part of the Banijay group and Banijay’s distribution arm cut the deal with D8.

The French Popstars will launch later this year on the digital terrestrial network.

The new French production will follow the original model, focusing on a group of singers.

Xavier Gandon, programme director, D8, said: “Popstars is one of the original and best-loved talent quest reality shows ever to appear on television. It has already launched the careers of several hugely popular recording artists in France, and we are bringing it to a new generation of French fans.”

Karoline Spodsberg, managing director, Banijay International added: “Popstars has a great deal of potential in today’s global market. Shiny floor formats have been dominant for several years so it’s not surprising to see broadcasters starting to look for more emotional, intimate talent formats like Popstars. More international versions will follow shortly.”