Guidelines for Entertainment and Factual Entertainment Commissions

I'm looking for shows that are feel-good, irresistible and ‘talkabout’. High profile talent and great access will help them drive as many bums-on-seats as possible and become brand-defining Sky1 shows for years to come.

When submitting programme ideas, please keep the following in mind:

  • Before pitching, PLEASE watch the channel and consider who watches Sky1. Our viewers are almost 50/50 male and female and like very mainstream entertainment.
  • All of our programmes have a clear point to them, have high-profile talent attached and have entertainment at their heart. eg: ROSS KEMP ON GANGS, DON’T FORGET THE LYRICS, HAIRSPRAY: THE SCHOOL MUSICAL, GLADIATORS, ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A TEN YEAR OLD?, NOEL’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS.
  • Casting and a sense of jeopardy is massively important as this always provides great narrative and will ensure that viewers are hooked from the beginning, right to the end.

All ideas must be big, popular, original and returnable.

What am I looking for?
New Entertainment formats in the vein of Are You Smarter Than A 10 Year Old?, Don't Forget The Lyrics and Gladiators. These shows perfectly outline Sky1's ambitions. Not only are they fun, they have strong, emotional journeys for both contestants and viewers.
New Factual Entertainment formats in the style of Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares, Secret Millionaire, Britain’s Next Top Model and Hotel Inspector. All are great programmes with fantastic casting. They're also 'sticky' because you have to watch until the end to find out what happens. I'm seeking similar ideas in areas which will satisfy Sky1's audience. The talent attached to these projects would be crucial.
Competitive Reality formats. Is there a new, original and surprising way of attacking the reality realm? If so, Sky1 would be interested. The likes of X-Factor, Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing on Ice have made their mark in the LIVE environment. Could we create a new, returnable, live TV event that would be aspirational to our audience?

How To Pitch

Get in touch at entertainmentsj@bskyb.com with a brief outline of your idea, what unique access you have, what talent is attached (if any) and tell me why you think this idea is right for Sky1.