The International Phenomenon “Popstars” Heads To The WB Network

(July 12, 2000 – Burbank, CA) – The WB Network has reached an agreement with Stone Stanley Entertainment for a 13 episode midseason order of “Popstars,” an international sensation that is the #1-rated show in Australia. The announcement was made today by Susanne Daniels, President, Entertainment of The WB with David G. Stanley and Scott A. Stone, Partners, Stone Stanley Entertainment. Stone Stanley Entertainment, acquired the rights from Screentime Pty, Ltd., an Australian-based production company. “'Popstars’ is a sexy, provocative look at the music business and explores what it takes to put together a pop vocal group,” Ms. Daniels said. “The series invites you deeper than other programs of this genre have into the evolutionary process of the band, giving viewers a closer look at how the lives of the girls and their families change as they go from unknowns with talent to national stars.” “Popstars,” which is on The WB’s midseason slate, has become a huge ratings hit for Australia’s TV7 driving “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” out of its time slot. The blockbuster ratings were so great that on average the next highest show pulled in only 40% of “Popstars”’ audience. “Popstars,” which originated in New Zealand, is a reality mini-series all about the auditioning, selection and creation of an all-female pop band. The show chronicles the lives of thousands of hopefuls and documents the selection of five attractive, bright and talented young women. The band (in Australia they are called “Bardot”), assembled by some of the top professionals in the music business performs in their first concert on the final episode of the show. The concert was Australia’s highest-rated show, and in the same week “Bardot’s” first album was released and instantly shot to #1 on the pop charts. “When we envisioned the perfect network for “Popstars,” The WB was our dream choice,” said Scott A. Stone “This series will fit the demos of The WB like a glove … it is exhilarating, exciting and, most importantly, fun to watch.” The deal was brokered by the William Morris Agency and the UK-based distribution company, Target Entertainment. Stone Stanley Entertainment is a broad-based television, motion picture and home video production company. Founded by partners David G. Stanley and Scott A. Stone in 1990, the company currently has four television series on the air in the United States including, “Loveline” for MTV; “The Man Show” for Comedy Central; “Shop ‘til You Drop” for PAX-TV and “Legends of the Hidden Temple” for Nickelodeon’s Games and Sports. # # #