ABC is reportedly developing a new social media-focused reality competition show titled #FollowMe, according to Variety.
- Variety refers to the new reality show as “American Idol for the social media influencer set.”
- #FollowMe, which comes from Venture 10 Studio Group, will feature aspiring social media influencers as the compete in various business-themed challenges to build their follower bases.
- The winner of the new show will receive a cahs prize, a new car and potential brand deals with partner sponsors.
- One of those partner sponsors will be Mars Wrigley, which will mean many of the show’s challenges will somehow feature candy and gum products like M&Ms, Skittles, Snickers, Orbit and Extra.
- Other brands and sponsors for the new show will be announced at a later date.
- Executive producers on #FollowMe will include John Stevens, Spike Feresten and Hans Schiff.
- #FollowMe has already been cast, so all of you aspiring social media stars out there will have to wait for a potential season two.
What they’re saying:
- Executive producer John Stevens: “The contestants will have to incorporate the brand points as ‘pitch points’ across their social media – so the challenges will be critiqued on how well they align with the brands messaging as they create mini video campaigns in each episode. Think of a more contemporary twist on ‘Apprentice’-type challenges from back in the day.”
- Executive producer Hans Schiff: “We’re excited to take viewers into the competitive world of social media influencers. Partnering with the strategic corporate brand Mars Wrigley on ‘#FollowMe’ is a testament to the intrigue and influence of today’s social media stars.”
- Mars Wrigley media director Ray Amati: “We recognize the importance of showing up on platforms where our fans are consuming content and influencers play a huge role in driving interest to a new generation of fans.”