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Endemol USA and Metacafe to Launch New Online Late-Night Game Show: ''Buzzed''
LOS ANGELES & PALO ALTO, Calif.-(Business Wire)-January 29, 2008 - Endemol USA, the world's largest independent production company and market leader in interactive entertainment with global hit franchises such as Deal or No Deal, Big Brother and 1 vs. 100, and Metacafe, whose more than 28 million(1) unique viewers each month make it one of the world's largest video entertainment sites, today announced a programming partnership to produce Buzzed, a new online late-night game show. The hilarious interactive series will showcase nightclub and bar patrons answering a series of trivia questions as they leave popular late-night hotspots throughout the country. Facing tough questions after a night out on the town, expect some unpredictably wild moments with the contestants.
Available exclusively on Metacafe, Buzzed will showcase impromptu, man-on-the-street interviews between the show's host and contestants. With questions ranging from pop culture to general trivia, contestants will be awarded a cash prize for every correct answer. Contestants will also have the opportunity to "drunk dial" a friend to help answer one question, if necessary. Additionally, fans will be able to submit trivia questions and physical challenges for contestants, as well as rate, share and comment on the show's episodes via Metacafe.
The partnership combines Endemol USA's industry-leading production and creative expertise with Metacafe's robust community and publishing platform. Through Buzzed, both Endemol USA and Metacafe further extend their commitment to provide fans with original, cutting-edge short-form video content that takes full advantage of the interactive medium.
"We are delighted to produce Buzzed, the world's first digital game show for Metacafe and its 28 million viewers," said Jon Vlassopulos, Senior Vice President, Digital Media and Branded Entertainment, Endemol USA. "It is an exciting time for the industry overall, as advertisers are now able to become directly involved in this new wave of interactive programming. We look forward to producing many more brand-friendly shows this year."
"More people are turning to the Internet for entertainment, enjoying a 'media snack' whenever and wherever they're in the mood for a break," said Erick Hachenburg, CEO, Metacafe. "Buzzed is a great example of original short-form video content that puts the power of the Internet to good use. It's interactive, engaging and entertaining - delivering value to our viewers and sponsors alike."
Slated to launch across the U.S. this spring, Buzzed is now in pre-production, with film crews to hit late-night hotspots in cities such as New York, Chicago, Miami, Boston, San Francisco and elsewhere in the coming months.
Buzzed sponsorships are now being developed with leading brands interested in leveraging short-form video entertainment to build awareness and engagement among the target audience of U.S. viewers age 21 and over, a demographic well represented on Metacafe with more than 6 million unique monthly viewers who fit this profile. Sponsorship packages include product integration and prizing opportunities in addition to standard video and interactive ad units.
About Endemol USA
Endemol USA is a leading producer of television programming specializing in reality and non-scripted genres for network and cable television. The company produces the break-out hits "Deal or No Deal," "1 VS 100," "Fear Factor," "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and "Big Brother." Endemol USA is a division of Endemol Holding, a prominent international content developer, producer and distributor of television and online programming. The company, headquartered in the Netherlands, has subsidiaries and joint ventures in 21 countries, including the major European markets, the U.S., South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Australia. Endemol Entertainment is a subsidiary of the Consortium, a conglomerate formed by Mediacinco Cartera S.A., Cyrte Found II B.V., and GS Capital Partners VI Fund.
About Metacafe
Metacafe(R) is Video Entertainment, Powered By You(TM) - our more than 28 million(1) unique viewers each month. One of the world's largest video entertainment sites, we specialize in short-form original content from new, emerging talents and established Hollywood heavyweights alike. Metacafe delivers an exceptional entertainment experience by engaging and empowering our audience every step of the way. Our VideoRank(TM) technology helps expose the most entertaining content, and our Producer Rewards(R) program rewards video creators for their best work - all as determined by viewer response. The privately held company is headquartered in Palo Alto, Calif., and has offices in Tel Aviv and New York City. For more information - and hundreds of thousands of entertaining videos - visit www.metacafe.com.
(1)comScore Media Metrix, December 2007
