Network Ten has revealed the line-up for its returning Pilot Week initiative, with fewer shows featuring in 2019.
Pilot Week sees a series of program pilots produced for the network, with the chance for each to earn a full season run.
This year, only five shows have been announced to run, compared to eight in the year prior. In contrast to last year's 'all-male lineup' controversy, the network was also revealed a female-led series of shows.
Speaking to AdNews, Network Ten chief content officer Beverley McGarvey says the decision was always to have fewer than eight shows and that last year the network got "over excited and carried away" with the concept.
"We just had so many good ideas last year but launching eight shows in one week, we now realise, is impossible and it becomes too hard to get the cut through needed in terms of promos and marketing," McGarvey says.
"What we were also looking for this year compared to last year was a bit more diversity within the shows and genres, so we have a little less comedy and some more reality and scripted output, which happens to be female led, which is fantastic."
AdNews contacted Network Ten regarding the number of shows running this year, with a spokesperson confirming that only five shows would air as part of the strategy.
As its return approaches, Ten is also set to air two of its successful shows from Pilot Week's debut year, including Kinne Tonight, staring comedian Troy Kinne amd Taboo, hosted by radio host and comedian Harley Breen.
See: Ten's Pilot Week performance revealed
This includes Part Time Privates, a series about two mums who opt to use their spare time to open a home-based private detective agency, starting Heidi Arena and Nicola Parry.
I am...Roxy!, which is a reality TV-styled program featuring 'PR queen' Roxy Jacenko, will give a comedic all-access look into the life of the publicist, talent manager and author.
Catfish Australia, a show which already has won acclaim for its American version created by MTV, will star former Australian Idol winner Casey Donovan and Walkley-nominated documentarian Patrick Abboud as they search for the 'truth' about online relationships. Donovan herself was caught up in her own catfishing case back in 2014.
Sydney's Crazy Rich Asians follows the lives of six very 'extra' characters and their local "fixer" who waits on their every want and need.
My 80 Year Old Flatmate is a reality show that sees older Aussies offer cheap rent to hard-up millennials in exchange for company and help around the house.
"We were so thrilled with the quality and creativity we achieved with our partners in the production community for Pilot Week last year. We can’t wait to see how this year’s projects deliver," McGarvey says.
“It is clear that more domestic content is what our audiences really crave, and we are working hard to ensure we can provide an innovative and diverse slate of local shows.”
A date for Pilot Week is yet to be announced.
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