Japan's NHK to run 'Hold on to your seat!' French game show

Originally created by Effervescence Productions, 'Hold on to your seat!' is one of the most successful programmes ever to air in France. It has run over 1,500 episodes since its debut in 2006.

NHK will produce a series of five pilot episodes which will air twice a day during August with a view to securing a regular stripped slot. The Japanese adaptation of the show entitled 'Hold On' in English, demonstrating its western origins, will see points and prizes up for grabs but contestants will not win cash as they do in the French version. Contestants will also be a mixture of ordinary people and celebrities, known in Japan as 'talentos'.

'Hold on to your seat' invites viewers to join six new contestants every day with the objective of defeating the reigning champion. This nail biting quiz sees challengers battle against adversity as the defending title holder exploits the privileges available to him - including the chance to buy back his title using some of his previous winnings.

Simone Halberstadt Harari, president of Effervescence Productions, said, “We’re delighted to share this incredibly strong, ratings-winning format with Japan. Owing to its simplicity, fast pace and nail-biting addictiveness, it has become such a core part of daily French viewing. We can’t wait to see the reaction of its first Asian viewers.”