Dermot O'Leary's new gameshow could change television forever
- Dermot O'Leary is filming a pilot for a new gameshow called 'Five Questions to a Million' aimed at American audiences.
- The show resembles 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?' but features fewer questions, and all contestants are American.
- O'Leary's efforts reflect a broader ambition to succeed in the U.S. television market, especially after James Corden's departure.
In the United Kingdom, Dermot O'Leary, a former presenter of The X Factor and current host of This Morning, is taking significant steps towards achieving his dream of success in the United States. Months prior, he filmed a pilot for a new gameshow called 'Five Questions to a Million' at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire. This unique format bears resemblance to the well-known quiz show 'Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?' but involves fewer questions, making it distinctively tailored for American audiences. Despite the pilot being filmed in the UK, all contestants participating were American, indicating the show's intended reach. The timing of this development coincides with a shift in the American television landscape, especially following the return of British comedienne and television personality James Corden to the UK after his successful run with 'The Late Late Show.' With a notable gap emerging for British hosts, O'Leary is positioned to potentially fill that void. His aspiration to break into the American market is not new, as he had previously expressed desires to create a variety of shows for American networks, including a concept involving 'robots versus humans' showcased for Fox. O'Leary is not alone on this journey. He recently collaborated with Cat Deeley, his colleague from ITV's This Morning, marking their first hosting appearance together in over two decades. Cat Deeley, who has had her own success in the United States as the host of 'So You Think You Can Dance,' is viewed as a valuable resource for O'Leary. Their partnership reflects their shared history and her contributions to his ambitions, as Deeley has navigated the complexities of American television successfully. With a reputation as one of the friendliest figures in showbiz, O'Leary's career spans various platforms, including hosting prestigious events such as the National Television Awards and the BRIT Awards. He also has a notable presence on radio and as an author of children's literature. Given his extensive experience and ambitions in the industry, the pilot for 'Five Questions to a Million' signifies not only a new chapter in his career but also presents a potential opportunity for him to establish a foothold in the competitive American television market.