New Developments in Entertainment: ‘Starstruck’ Gets an Italian Twist, Upcoming Comedy, and Grierson Trust Updates
‘Starstruck’ Embraces Italian Fans
The popular singing competition format Starstruck, created by Banijay, is set to be adapted for Italian audiences on the Warner Bros. Discovery channel, Nove. This new iteration will showcase groups of everyday individuals as they pay tribute to renowned musical acts, competing against each other leading to a final showdown for a monetary prize.
Banijay Italia is responsible for the Italian version, marking the seventh adaptation of this format, which originated in the UK and has previously been transformed for audiences in countries such as Chile, Bulgaria, Belgium, Denmark, and Portugal. “Starstruck is a celebration of music, talent, and transformation,” stated Francesco Lauber, Chief Creative Officer of Banijay Italia. He added, “Italian audiences love high-energy competitions, and with its mix of incredible performances and emotional moments, this adaptation is set to become must-watch TV.”
Upcoming Comedy Film: ‘Saving Buddy Charles’
In the realm of film, Saving Buddy Charles is gearing up for production this coming spring in Los Angeles. This buddy comedy, penned by Jillian Shea Spaeder, who also stars in the film, follows the adventurous journey of two best friends, Clara and Sydney, played by Analesa Fisher and Spaeder, respectively, as they travel across the country to rescue a pet lizard.
Amid the comedic escapade, the storyline reveals Clara’s secret struggle with a serious illness, which has left her with only six months to live unless she undergoes a heart transplant. The film also features Ariel Martin and Ian Boggs among the cast. Director Grace Wethor highlighted the essence of the film, saying, “At its heart, Saving Buddy Charles is a story about love, loss, and the reckless, beautiful chaos of friendship,” identifying it as a coming-of-age comedy embracing the absurdities of life.
Grierson Trust Welcomes New Trustees
In organizational news, the UK’s Grierson Trust has appointed six new trustees following an open application process. The new members include Zeb Achonu, editor and consulting editor; Derren Lawford, founder of Dare Pictures; Rick Murray, Chief Executive of Workerbee Group; director Toby Trackman; and Oli Harbottle, Chief Content Officer for Dogwoof. Jessica Ross, a Netflix production executive, will join the board later this year.
The current trustees, which include notable figures like Guy Davies and Rob Stapledon—who are completing their terms—are part of a larger team dedicated to celebrating documentary and factual television in the UK. The Grierson Trust is also responsible for the British Documentary Awards, known as the Griersons, with this year’s event scheduled for November 18 at Camden’s Roundhouse.