GSN orders emojis, develops Pointless

The UK version of Pointless

US gameshow-focused cablenet GSN is preparing a series that challenges contestants’ knowledge of emojis and is developing a US version of UK quiz format Pointless.

Emogenius is produced by US prodco Game Show Enterprises and tests how well people have mastered the art of communicating solely with the emoji characters and icons widely used in mobile messaging.

It will debut in June and features two pairs of contestants who put their emoji skills to the test for a chance to win US$10,000.

The US version of Pointless, originally produced by Endemol Shine Group’s Remarkable Television for BBC1, will be made by Authentic Entertainment. The format tasks contestants with providing obscure correct answers to general knowledge questions based on pre-conducted public surveys.

Amy Introcaso-Davis

Meanwhile, GSN has picked up Divided, which launched in January, for a second season. The Talpa Media USA show requires a team of strangers to agree on the same answer in order to collectively win prize money.

Shows returning to the network include freshman hit Winsanity and Idiotest, hosted by comedian Ben Gleib. GSN is also developing a raft of formats including D.I. WHY? (working Title), from Studio 71, which requires contestants to follow instructions and recreate outrageous challenges.

Newly licensed series include Discovery Communications’ reality-based Cash Cab, which features unassuming taxi passengers who find out they are part of a gameshow, and Universal City Studios Productions’ unscripted format Hollywood Game Night.

“The continued success of our gameshows proves there is an audience that is craving fun, feel-good entertainment,” said Amy Introcaso-Davis, GSN’s executive VP of programming and development. “We are a sure-fire escape for everyone in the family.”