Banijay Entertainment Unveils New Family Competition Format “Game of Chairs” at London TV Screenings
Banijay Entertainment, a leading content production powerhouse, has unveiled its latest family-friendly competition format titled “Game of Chairs.” The show, created by Shine Iberia—an integral part of the Banijay Iberia network—was showcased during the prestigious London TV Screenings, held at the Banijay BAFTA venue in Piccadilly. This unveiling comes as part of Banijay’s ongoing commitment to diversify and enrich its format catalog with innovative and nostalgic programming.
“Game of Chairs” reinvents the classic children’s game of musical chairs into an engaging and colorful competition. The show pits ten contestants against one another as they navigate around nine chairs while music plays. The tension escalates when the music stops, resulting in one contestant being left without a seat. In a twist to the traditional concept, contestants who are eliminated will engage in a tactical face-off against one another to determine who remains in the competition. As the game unfolds, the number of chairs diminishes, increasing the stakes and tension, culminating in a high-stakes showdown dubbed “The Master Chair.” The ultimate winner will have the chance to secure a substantial prize, while those who do not succeed will re-enter the fray the following day alongside the last four eliminated players, ensuring a gripping continuation of the competition.
Macarena Rey, CEO of Shine Iberia, emphasized the format’s universal appeal, stating, “Fun for all the family, ‘Game of Chairs’ is inspired by a classic childhood game that is recognized worldwide. Our dynamic blend of game show excitement and nostalgia reimagines a beloved party favorite, resulting in a vibrant format that boasts international appeal.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer of Development at Banijay Entertainment, echoed these sentiments, positioning “Game of Chairs” alongside other successful family-oriented formats. He noted, “Nostalgia, tension, strategy, and knowledge come together in this original concept, which appeals to a wide demographic. Reimagining childhood favorites resonates strongly with our clients, and ‘Game of Chairs’ is an exciting addition to our portfolio, complementing our established offerings such as ‘LEGO Masters’ and ‘Bear Hunt.’”
Since its inception in 2012, Shine Iberia has made significant strides in producing captivating shows in both Spain and Portugal. The company has successfully developed home-grown content such as the documentary series “Bosé Renacido” and adapted numerous international franchises like “MasterChef.” Additionally, it has ventured into premium branded content with successful formats like “Hairstyle: The Talent Show,” spanning multiple countries including Spain, Italy, and the U.S. Recently, Shine Iberia has also entered the scripted programming arena with the biopic “Bosé,” a collaboration with Elefantec Global and Legacy Rock for Paramount+.
As “Game of Chairs” prepares for its release, the format exemplifies Banijay’s aim to innovate within the competitive landscape of family entertainment, while tapping into the universal appeal of nostalgic gameplay. As audiences increasingly seek engaging and relatable content, this new format is poised to become a significant addition to family programming across various markets.
