Bravo, the premier arts and entertainment network, launches its first ever 1-screen interactive television application with Time Warner Cable for Bravo´s newest original series, TOP CHEF, a reality competition series offering a fascinating window into the passionate, pressure-filled environment of world-class cookery and the restaurant business.
Beginning with the series debut of TOP CHEF on Wednesday, March 8 at 11:00pm/ET and continuing throughout the season during its regular time at 10:00pm/ET, Time Warner Cable, through its use of Navic Networks´ interactive television application, will allow viewers to respond with their remote control to a series of topical questions and voice their opinions about the contestants. The polling will appear as pop up screens generated by viewer´s set-top boxes that will be synchronized to occur at precise moments during the one-hour show. Navic Network´s technology will record and compile the votes and display the results to viewers in real time in each of their local markets.
"This is an extraordinary opportunity for us to partner with Time Warner Cable and provide customers with a more exciting way to watch TV," commented Jean-Briac Perrette, Senior Vice President, New Media and CFO, NBC Universal Cable. "With the growing trend in alternative ways for viewers to consume entertainment, NBC Universal continues to be in the forefront by providing them with as many options available."
"This application with TOP CHEF provides our digital customers a truly interactive television experience and gives them the ability to actively participate in what they watch," said Joan Gillman Vice President of Interactive Television for Time Warner Cable. "Time Warner Cable continues to deliver to its customers the innovative products and services they want."
"Bravo´s mission is to present arts entertainment that is both influential and aspirational, and TOP CHEF is our newest series that celebrates creativity...this time in the kitchen," said Lauren Zalaznick, President, Bravo. "Our viewers connect with the personalities on screen and this is a great opportunity for them to reflect on what they see and interact with the show and each other."
In conjunction with the interactive TV application for TOP CHEF, NBC Universal Cable will provide Time Warner Cable Media Sales with an exclusive local ad sales promotion with a TOP CHEF WINE & DINE sweepstakes hosted by www.Bravotv.com/napatrip.com. The sweepstakes runs March 1 - 21, where one local winner is guaranteed in all participating markets and will receive roundtrip tickets and accommodations for a 4-day/3-night trip for two to America´s culinary mecca, San Francisco & Napa Valley.
TOP CHEF features twelve aspiring chefs who head to San Francisco for their shot at culinary stardom and the chance to earn the prestigious title, $100,000 cash prize and a feature in FOOD & WINE magazine. Gourmet foodie Katie Lee Joel will host the series. Tom Colicchio, one of the culinary world´s most celebrated figures and co-owner of Gramercy Tavern and Craft Restaurants, serves as lead judge and mentor to the competing chefs. Food expert Gail Simmons of FOOD & WINE magazine will serve as a regular judge for the series.
Each episode holds two challenges for the chefs. The first is a quickfire test of their basic abilities and the second is a more involved elimination challenge designed to test the versatility and invention of the chefs as they take on unique culinary trials such as working with unusual and exotic foods or catering for a range of demanding clients.
