“The Biggest Loser” keeps getting fatter.
NBC has given a greenlight to a sixth season of its weight-loss series “The Biggest Loser,” where producers will hit “America’s fattest cities” in search of couples seeking to drop those pounds.
“The current ‘couples’ season of “The Biggest Loser” has been one of the best and most compelling so far in this important franchise,” said Craig Plestis, executive VP of alternative programming and specials at NBC Entertainment. “We look forward to continuing to inspire and entertain viewers with more remarkable and life-changing weight-loss stories.”
According to the company, season-six couples will include family members (parent with adult child, siblings, cousins, etc.), best friends and co-workers.
“‘The Biggest Loser’ has become a year-round success story for NBC,” said executive producer Mark Koops. “We’re excited to continue making great prime-time TV while inspiring and motivating millions of Americans to live healthier lives.”
The show’s current season has bolstered NBC despite playing against juggernaut “American Idol.” In fact, the show is off to its strongest start since its initial cycle in fall 2004, lifting NBC by 40% over last year’s time period versus “Idol” among adults 18-49. For its six telecasts through Feb. 5, “The Biggest Loser 5” is averaging a 3.9 rating, 9 share in adults 18-49 and 9.3 million viewers overall.