CBBC Productions is adding to its in-house factual and entertainment lineups with three new original commissions set to air in 2013 including a family game show, a new Dick and Dom series and a factual series for children.
CBBC will produce 10 x half-hour episodes of the new series Dick And Dom’s Absolute Genius, starring popular CBBC comedy duo Dick and Dom. The series, executive produced by Newsround editor Owenna Griffiths, examines the work of important inventors and scientists in history.
In DareDevils (13 x half hours), a new family game show executive produced by Simon Marsh, kids’ families and friends can win prizes by accepting challenges and dares that tap into their passions and fears.
CBBC’s third commission is a two-series deal for a new factual series executive produced by Gurdip Bhangoo entitled Earthshock. The globetrotting series teaches children the science and stories behind extreme weather and natural events.
CBBC Productions’ in-house development team led by creative director Bill Hobbins is behind the creation of all three commissions, which were ordered by former CBBC controller Damian Kavanagh, who moved over to Channel 4 earlier this year. BBC comedy executive Cheryl Taylor recently accepted the role as CBBC’s new controller.
In two additional deals, a third season of comedy series Sadie J has been ordered and a 13 x half-hour second season of factual comedy Vic Reeves’ Ministry Of Curious Stuff has also been commissioned.