To capitalize on the rocketing ratings of WWE′s MONDAY NIGHT RAW, USA Network has announced a reality development slate designed to generate programming compatible with its success. They include the one-hour street-racing pilot TURF and THE CAPPER, a presentation set in the world of high-stakes legal betting. The announcement was made by Bonnie Hammer, president, USA Network and SCI FI Channel, and Jeff Wachtel, USA′s executive vice president, original programming.
From The Firm′s Rich Frank & Paul Frank, David Hurwitz (FEAR FACTOR, THE MAN SHOW) and Paul Cockerille, TURF is a one-hour pilot that brings the world of street racing to television, as top underground street racers battle it out for the title of "Turf King or Queen." The pilot will give viewers behind-the-scenes access to racing teams from all aspects of the driving community as they compete, as well as explore their lives outside of the races to deliver an authentic, full access glimpse into this intense world and lifestyle.
Produced by Endemol and the brainchild of Tom Forman (EXTREME MAKEOVER HOME EDITION), THE CAPPER follows Brandon Lang, one of the nation′s most well known sports handicappers. Lang′s multi-millionaire clients (AKA "whales") pay him generously for his sports knowledge and betting instincts, which will really be put to the test in this pilot presentation as he travels the world seeking out legal sports and pop culture events on which he can wager money for his clients. A larger than life presence, Lang has proven he can pick the winner of an NFL game, but can he pick the winner of a camel race and keep the whales satisfied?
