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Network Ten puts Shine on Spelling Bee

Australian free-to-air broadcaster Network Ten has greenlit The Great Australian Spelling Bee.

In the event show, kids, with support from their families, will take on spelling challenges.

The format was created by Shine Australia and Network Ten’s drama boss Rick Maier.

Shine Australia will produce the show. The wider Endemol Shine International distribution operation is expected to sell it internationally.

Network Ten chief programming officer, Beverley McGarvey, said: “The Great Australian Spelling Bee is an exciting, engaging new series and a perfect fit with our strategy of bringing event television to Australians.

“Surrounded by their friends and loved ones, we will see Australia’s brightest young people put through their paces as they inspire and surprise us.”

Mark Fennessy (pictured), CEO, Shine Australia, added: “By super-sizing spelling to a hyper-stylised, entertainment family event, we’ll present the universal art of problem solving on the grandest of scales.”

Australia remains without a publicly-announced Endemol Shine Group corporate structure.