EXCLUSIVE: The Wall is heading back to Italy, with comedian and presenter Max Giusti hosting a new local version of the game show. The Italian show has been ordered by Mediaset and will be on its Canale 5 net.
The original U.S. format The Wall, created by LeBron James, Maverick Carter and Andrew Glassman, recently concluded its sixth season on NBC.
The format features a pair of contestants trying to win a cash prize. As giant balls travel unpredictably down the titular Wall, correct answers can build their prize fund, while mistakes can see their winnings disappear.
The Wall has been on air in Italy before, with Gerry Scotti hosting the show, which ran from 2017-2019. For this latest Italian edition, there is a new twist: the Lucky Ball offers the contestants the chance to increase their winnings by up to €100,000 ($114,000), or can wipe them out entirely.
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NBCUniversal Formats, part of Universal Studio Group, has been selling the show after it was added to its catalog. It has been giving the format a renewed push internationally. Last year it did a deal for a Greek version of the format on local channel Skai, fronted by well-known presenter Christos Ferentinos.
It has now added Italy to the list. The new Italian version kicks off July 13. RTI produces in association with Fremantle, and in collaboration with Glassman Media, The SpringHill Company and Universal Television Alternative Studio. The format is executive produced by Jessica Otazua
“The Wall continues to resonate with audiences around the world, and we’re delighted to be partnering with Mediaset and Fremantle as the format returns to Italy,” said Hannah Mabruk, SVP, Format Sales and Production, NBCUniversal Formats. “Its unique combination of knowledge, trust and high-stakes drama has made it a global success, and we’re excited for viewers to experience this latest edition.”
