After years of offering up programming like Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, TLC has decided to try a new approach to the reality television game. It was announced Tuesday, Oct. 21, that the network will be teaming up with Mark Burnett and Roma Downey for a spiritual, unscripted drama that focuses on real people who believe their prayers were answered in a miraculous way.
TLC general manager Nancy Daniels said in an official statement, "TLC is always looking for remarkable, heart-warming and eye-opening stories. This project, and our fantastic partnership with Roma and Mark, will deliver a television experience that connects with the hearts, minds and faith of our viewers."
Downey will be back on camera to host the six-part series, and it is something she is excited to be involved in.
"Mark and I feel passionate about providing projects that show people's lives in positive and uplifting ways. This is a wonderful opportunity to work with TLC and host a series that will inspire and encourage viewers to remember that even in the worst circumstances prayer can lead to divine intervention," she said.
What are your thoughts on taking a reality show and putting a bit of a spiritual spin on it? Do you think it will be as uplifting as they are hoping, or will it be met with a bit of backlash from people who do not want to be told what to believe in?
The new show has yet to be named, but if anyone can make it work, it will be Burnett, who has shows like Survivor and The Voice under his belt. He and Downey were also the creative force behind The History Channel's The Bible and have various other projects in the works.
Casting for this show is just beginning, and a late 2015 air date seems to be what they are hoping for.
Is this type of programming a good move for TLC? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
