Jason Manford is launching his own primetime quiz show.
The comedian’s new ITV project ‘5 Second Stars’ will see contestants teaming up as they try to win a cash prize across a number of face-paced rounds, and it comes after the star has become a favourite with the channel’s bosses.
An insider told The Sun newspaper’s TV Bizarre column: "Jason has become one of ITV’s golden boys and has really clicked with younger viewers, especially with his programme ‘Bigheads’.
"There’s a huge demand for new quiz shows at the moment, so producers were delighted to get him on board for their next big series.
"A pilot for 5 Second Stars is being filmed at the end of the month. The aim is to place it in a primetime slot later in the year — but it’s still early days."
The new show has already added to comparisons between Jason and fellow musically talented entertainer Bradley Walsh, and it appears the programme could be a hit with fans of ‘The Chase’.
The source added: "Like The Chase, contestants are going to be offered the chance to win big money, and there will be celebrity specials too."
Featuring members of the public – and three surprise celebrity guests – the first two episodes are set to be filmed at Elstree Film and TV Studios in London later this month.
After the shoot on March 25, Jason will continue his busy year as he hosts the Olivier Awards on April at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, and later in the year he’ll be back on stage himself in musical comedy ‘Curtains’.
He’s enjoyed huge success on ITV over the years, presenting the likes of ‘Show Me the Funny’, ‘Bigheads’ and ‘What Would Your Kid Do?’
Jason Manford launching quiz show 5 Second Stars
