NBC's former top programmer, Ben Silverman, has sold his former employer the Elle Macpherson-hosted design show "Fashion Star," in which designers will compete to win a multi-million dollar contract to launch their line in retail stores, and viewers will be invited to buy winning designs.
After two years as co-chairman of NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios, Silverman stepped down in 2009 and started Electus, his multimedia studio. But Silverman continues executive produce NBC's "The Office" and "The Biggest Loser." He also sold "The Tudors" to Showtime when Bob Greenblatt, who now holds his old job at NBC, ran the cable network's programming.
“I have a great relationship with Bob,” Silverman told The New York Times, which first reported the deal. “I have great relationships in general at the network, almost stronger than when I worked there.”
The show is expected to air for 10 episodes in 2012.
"Fashion Star," a tentative title, is executive produced by Silverman, Jane Lipstiz and Dan Cutforth of The Magical Elves; Rick Ringbakk of 5x5 Media; Macpherson; and E.J. Johnston and James Deutch of Global Fashion Association.
