RDF USA Wants to Import ‘French Kiss’

By Josef Adalian

“Wife Swap” producer RDF USA is looking to lock lips with a U.S. network for “French Kiss,” a Gallic format that challenges male contestants to kiss as many women as possible over the course of several days.

RDF USA has acquired North American rights to the format from Adventure Line Productions and has begun pitching the concept to networks this week. RDF USA’s Chris Coelen, Karrie Wolfe and Lauren Gellert are executive producing the project, along with Thibaut Vales of French production company La Grosse Equipe.

In the original version of “French Kiss,” five men were sent to Miami, with no money and few resources, and were challenged to kiss as many women as they could during a three-day period. With no possessions or home, the men struggle to stay “kissable,” taking showers at the beach and begging for money.

The format has been tweaked for U.S. audiences, with changes designed to heighten the stakes in the show.

“The format is pure, escapist fun—the entire time you’re thinking, ‘I can’t believe they just did that!’” said Ms. Wolfe, senior VP, RDF USA.

Ms. Gellert, also a senior VP at RDF USA, said “French Kiss” could provide viewers a break from the harsh realities of the times. “Sometimes, we need to turn off the news and indulge in a guilty pleasure … at least for an hour,” she said. “‘French Kiss’ satisfies that craving.”

“French Kiss” was created by Mr. Vales, Jérémy Michalak and Zumeo of La Grosse Equipe for French station NRJ12.

To check out a sizzle reel for the original show, click here.