CBS picks up Have You Been Paying Attention? format
A major win for Working Dog with its sleeper quiz hit bound for global glory.
- Published by David Knox
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- Filed under News
In a major win for Working Dog and TEN CBS Studios International has picked up the exclusive, worldwide format rights to Have You Been Paying Attention?
“HYBPA? joins CBS’ portfolio of the biggest formats on television; from Wheel of Fortune to America’s Next Top Model,” said Paul Gilbert, Senior Vice President, International Formats, CBS Studios International. “This agreement is a terrific example of the new synergies we have in Australia since acquiring Network TEN, and we look forward to partnering with the team at Working Dog Productions to make HYBPA? a global success.”
“We are proud and delighted to bring the show we love to the rest of the world,” said Michael Hirsh, Executive Producer, Working Dog Productions. “We’re grateful to CBS for the opportunity to share what has become the one Aussie show families bookmark to watch together every week.”
Now in its sixth season, the show launched in November 2013 with Working Dog cleverly taking a low-key approach, declining interviews and media previews to remain under the radar. While early ratings were modest TEN stuck to its guns allowing the show to build, notably from August 2014.
It is now a consistent timeslot winner and the third-highest-rated overall show on the network.
Working Dog has previously enjoyed international adaptations of its shows including Thank God You’re Here.
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9 Responses
An amazing format on its own by it lives and dies by the talent on it. Hopefully this isn’t squandered.
Congrats to the Working Dog team!
so who is gonna play 86 yr old Tom
For a US version, I’d get Conan O’Brien and Andy Richter. They’d get the tone right.
Yes but they are signed with TBS to do Connan. CBS have Craig Ferguson at a loose end since Celebrity Name Game was cancelled and Drew Carey has racked up 10 years on The Price Is Right. But it’s the US, there’s lots of people CBS could have in mind.
It will be hard to replicate what Tom does for the show, just like his role couldn’t be duplicated on the US TGYH. I’d still be interested to watch it though.
HYBPA is such a good show!
The Americans will love it!
Simple format but works exceptionally well. Just goes to show you don’t have to have a huge budget to make cracking TV.
Working Dog Productions have consistently produced quality television programs and series in Australia over the decades. It’s no suprise that Have You Been Paying Attention? has been picked up by overseas markets. It’s a great format. Working Dog Productions are certainly a team that aspiring filmmakers and producers can look up to for inspiration.
Lot of the success for this show should go to Tom. His delivery and quick wit makes the show, in my view.