"Shaolin Heroes"
Banijay Entertainment announced the international expansion of its premium adventure reality format, "Shaolin Heroes." Originally created by Danish label Metronome, the format now has two additional versions in the works. Banijay Belgium has secured a deal with broadcaster VTM, while in the Netherlands, SimpelZodiak has received a greenlight from RTL.
Since its debut on TV2 Denmark last year, "Shaolin Heroes" has captivated audiences, achieving a 31% share—surpassing the channel’s average primetime slot—and leading to a second-season renewal set to launch this month. The series follows celebrities as they embark on a transformational journey to master the ancient martial art of the Shaolin Warrior Monks. Under the guidance of two Shaolin Masters, contestants face intense trials that test their physical and mental boundaries, all while discovering new facets of themselves.
Isabelle Dams, Managing Director of Banijay Belgium, praised the format: “Metronome’s 'Shaolin Heroes' is an adventure reality format unlike any other, taking the audience on an immersive and transformational journey. Bringing this unique format to Belgium with VTM is an exciting step, and we know viewers will be enticed by its intensity," commented.
Meanwhile, Justine Huffmeijer, Managing Director of SimpelZodiak, expressed satisfaction with the respect for the product's tradition: “'Shaolin Heroes' is a bold and unique format that respectfully highlights the Shaolin tradition. After its strong performance in Denmark, we are eager to launch the Dutch version and watch these celebrities take on this challenging yet rewarding experience," stated.
Finally, Tina Christensen, Managing Director of Metronome, highlighted the ambitious creativity of the title: “This premium adventure reality series is a testament to the creativity and ambition of the Metronome team, blending stunning scenery with human endurance. 'Shaolin Heroes' has all the key elements to captivate global audiences, and it’s exciting to see this original format expanding its international footprint while returning here in Denmark for another thrilling season," expressed.
Banijay Belgium is a leading producer of high-quality, cross-genre television, with a slate that includes "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," "Hunted," "Fear Factor," and, more recently, an adaptation of the hit traveling format "Starstruck." Dutch label SimpelZodiak specializes in reality, adventure, documentaries, and factual entertainment, with a focus on impactful storytelling that inspires and entertains. Its slate includes "Good Luck Guys," "Hunted," "Survivor," "SAS: Who Dares Wins," "Temptation Island," and Banijay UK’s hit fact-ent format "Banged Up." Finally, Danish production company Metronome is behind Banijay Entertainment’s latest comedy format, "Roast on the Coast," for Amazon Prime Video. It also produces a range of long-running non-scripted series, including "MasterChef," "Hunted," "Taskmaster," "Alone Together," and "The Block."