When it comes to original programming, USA is better known for its dramas than anything else, but it looks like the cable channel is looking to branch out with some unscripted programming. Big Brother's Allison Grodner and Rich Meehan are reportedly producing a summer competition series with a summer camp theme, fittingly titled Summer Camp, which will have adults facing off in various camp-themed challenges.
Deadline reports that USA has given an 8-episode order for Summer Camp, a competitive series, which will feature 16 adults from various backgrounds, who are brought together at an "idyllic lakeside retreat" where they'll compete in over-the-top competitions inspired by classic camp games. The competition will lead to an end-of-the-summer "Campathalon," which will have the remaining contestants facing off in an Olympic-style event. According to USA, the idea of the show is to combine quirky characters with a fun, energizing and nostalgic concept.
Deadline points out that NBC also has a camp-focused series in the works, though their 10-episode scripted dramedy Camp. However, Summer Camp sounds a bit more like Big Brother in its format and concept. Though the CBS reality series quarantines its contestants for the season and incorporates mental and social strategizing, it also features adults being subjected to over-the-top physical and mental competitions as part of the strategy to make it through the game. And Big Brother also happens to be a summer series, so it shares that in common with Summer Camp as well. Regardless of the similarities, Grodner and Meehan (through Fly on the Wall Entertainment) certainly have experience in this area, so we'll have to wait and see what they put together for USA.
