BBCA Expands 'Nerdist' Specials With Full Series Order

Series will be part of 'Supernatural Saturday' programming block, which Hardwick will host

By Tim Baysinger -- Broadcasting & Cable, 12/19/2012 2:43:31 PM

BBC America is expanding on its Nerdist specials, giving the Chris Hardwick-hosted talk show a 10-episode series order. The Nerdist is based on Hardwick's popular podcast of the same name.

The Nerdist will premiere in spring 2013 as part of the channel's "Supernatural Saturday" programming block, which features top-rated dramas Doctor Who, Being Human and the upcoming series Orphan Black. Hardwick will host the entire "Supernatural Saturday" programming block in the spring.

Matt Mira and Jonah Ray, Hardwick's partners in the Nerdist podcast, will return as contributors. The Nerdist series will feature celebrity guests, U.K. and U.S.-based correspondents as well as stand-up and musical performances. The Nerdist podcast was named one of the best comedy podcasts by Rolling Stone and is a top 10 comedy podcast on iTunes.

Perry Simon, GM, channels, BBC Worldwide America said: "We could not be more pleased to be expanding our relationship with Chris by ordering The Nerdist series with an exciting new format, as well as having Chris host our 'Supernatural Saturday' block. Ever since early 2011, Chris has brought his loyal legion of fans to BBC America through his successful Nerdist specials and, as America's No. 1 Doctor Who fan, hosting countless Doctor Who-related events for our channel."

Hardwick also hosts AMC's Walking Dead aftershow, Talking Dead.