The MGM lion is ready to leap into syndication latenight with a NATPE slate that adds gameshow "Sex Wars" to its lineup. Additionally, Leo has named hosts for both "Sex" and upcoming talker "Chat Room America."
"Sex Wars" will play on the eternal battle of the genders by pitting groups of three men and three women against each other to determine who knows the most about the opposite sex and pop culture. With three rounds, contestants picked from the audience compete for prizes. "Sex Wars" and 'Chat Room America" are both being targeted for latenight auds. Howard Schultz of Lighthearted Entertainment will handle producing duties.
"We saw a particular niche available in late-fringe and when these two shows were developed, we felt we had a great opportunity to fill that hole," said Jim Griffiths, prexy of worldwide distribution for MGM.
Hosting duties have been handed to Jennifer Cole and JD Roth. Cole previously served as host of "10's" on the USA Network as well as MTV's "House of Style." Roth became the youngest gameshow host in TV history on the syndicated "Fun House" at 19, and has since hosted NBC's Saturday morning show "Double Up."
Stepping in front of the camera for "Chat Room America" will be "Loveline" co-star Catherine McCord and former "Leeza" associate producer Mike Richards. Produced by Stone Stanley Prods., the show has been described as a young-skewing "Socially Incorrect" in which celebrities and experts discuss issues in relationships, style and entertainment for the 18-34 crowd.
"Mike knew how to pick his moments; it didn't matter how many times we brought him back or who we placed him with," said Stone Stanley co-founder David G. Stanley. "Meanwhile, we've known Catherine for a long time, and she clicks with everyone. There are not a lot of talented people out there who know how to do this kind of show or want to do this kind of show."
Former Elite model McCord has had stints as an entertainment reporter for "Extra!" and "Entertainment Tonight" as well as guesting on "Melrose Place" before landing on Stone Stanley's "Loveline." Richards comes out from behind the camera with a resume that includes scribing duties for "Later" and working on a series of specials for the Sci-Fi Channel.
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