Paddy McGuinness To Host New Talent Show

BBC One has announced details of a new talent show, Even Better Than The Real Thing.

Hosted by Paddy McGuinness, the 60-minute special will celebrate some of the best names in pop music – by bringing together the world's top tribute artists for a night of performing and competing. Including music from Ariana Grande, Bruno Mars, George Michael, Little Mix and Whitney Houston, Even Better Than The Real Thing will bring together performances from tribute artists who are at the top of the game. At the end of the show, the live studio audience will vote for their favourite performer.

The show will also receive the festive treatment in an additional Christmas special for 2017. Further details will be released in due course, but it is understood the tribute acts will perform Christmas favourites from across the decades.

Commenting on the talent show, Paddy McGuinness said: "This show is a belter. A talent show that's only about the talent – with the best tribute acts from around the world singing their hearts out. You'll never have to fork out for expensive concert tickets again. You've got front row seats."

Rachel Ashdown, BBC Entertainment Commissioning Editor, added: "We are thrilled that Paddy will be bringing his unique brand of warmth and wit to these shows which promise to give you some of the best loved songs, performed as you have never seen them before."

Even Better Than The Real Thing has been commissioned by Charlotte Moore, Director, Content and Kate Phillips, Controller, BBC Entertainment Commissioning. Rachel Ashdown is the Commissioning Editor. It is produced by BBC Studios Entertainment, Music and Events in Salford and films this summer at MediaCity UK. The Executive Producers are Andrew Cartmell and Kieron Collins, Managing Editor of BBC Studios Entertainment North. The Series Producer is Maisie Maguire.

www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre