[zakman440]

The Neil Patrick Harris variety show for which Americans have hoped and prayed is finally happening. Vulture has learned NBC has landed the actor/author/all-around host with the most to headline a U.S. version of Saturday Night Takeaway, the long-running U.K. variety show format produced by U.K.-based production company ITV. We hear multiple broadcast networks actively bid for the rights to land the Harris-hosted series, with ITV asking networks to agree to an on-the air, ten-episode order for the project. In addition, two sources tell us ITV was asking for a price tag north of $2.5 million for each hourlong episode (and that’s before the substantial marketing and promotion such a project demands). The Harris show (which will not be called Saturday Night Takeaway or air on Saturdays) is also expected to originate from New York, logical given the actor’s roots in the city. "As I watched the show, I couldn't stop smiling. Now that I've seen many seasons, my face hurts. It's a game changer,” said Harris. “Nothing like this has been done before, and it's unique structure fits right into my random skill set. I can't wait to roll up my sleeves and have some fun!"

Read more: http://www.vulture.com/2014/10/nbc-n...iety-show.html

How exciting!