ABC has given a series order to a new one-hour prime-time game show that will feature Ricky Gervais. “Five to Survive,” from Banijay Studios, is a quiz show featuring both adult contestants and kids.

Besides appearing on screen, Gervais will be an executive producer. The show is searching for a host.

ABC Entertainment announced the project today. Said Robert Mills, Senior Vice President, Alternative Series, Specials & Late Night Programming, ABC Entertainment: “When Ricky presented his idea for ‘Five to Survive,’ we immediately knew this was a project that needed to land here at ABC. It has spirit, it’s fun and it will have the unforgettable comedic moniker that is Ricky Gervais.”

Gervais commented: “I’ve never understood the saying, ‘Never work with animals or children.’ As a producer and director, I prefer either to Hollywood actors. They’re cheaper, they do as they’re told, and the filming hours are better.”

Added David Goldberg, Banijay Group President and CEO, Banijay Studios North America: “At its core, ‘Five to Survive’ is a high-stakes Q&A game show with the unpredictable twist of contestants putting their earning potential in the hands of children. You never know what’s going to come out of a kid’s mouth and with Ricky Gervais, one of the funniest comedians in the world, wrangling and asking the questions, it’s certain to be a rollercoaster ride. This should be the type of show that appeals to audiences all over the world.”

Gervais, Goldberg and Caroline Baumgard, chief creative officer, Banijay Studios North America, will serve as executive producers.

Banijay Studios North America also produces Jimmy Kimmel’s upcoming prime-time game show “Big Fan” and “What Happens at the Abbey.”