ITV4 orders series based on FHM's stand-up contest
ITV has ordered a full series of FHM's Stand-Up Hero following the success of the one-off programme that was broadcast on ITV4 earlier in the year.
The hour-long pilot episode, which was broadcast on ITV4 in February, followed FHM magazine's 2009 stand-up contest and observed as the acts performed at Jongleurs. Marlon Davis, who was named the winner and took the £5000 prize at the end of the show, has since become a regular on the circuit. The TV show was hosted by Ed Byrne and featured interviews with stars including Dara O'Briain, Jason Manford, John Bishop and Brendon Burns alongside footage from the comedy clubs.
Following the success of the pilot, ITV have now ordered a full six-part series from producers Baby Cow and Signal TV. The additional episodes will allow the show to also broadcast the highlights from the five regional heats, before focusing on the final, which will have a £10,000 top prize this year.
Those looking to enter the contest in the hope of winning the cash and getting some TV exposure should keep an eye on the magazine - it will be asking entrants to upload audition videos to its website later in the year.