NBC Orders Sixth Helping of The Biggest Loser

Weight-Loss Reality Series Returning to NBC for Sixth Season

By Alex Weprin -- Broadcasting & Cable, 2/11/2008 4:12:00 PM

NBC ordered a sixth season of popular reality show The Biggest Loser, the network announced Monday.

The series, currently in its fifth season, is having its strongest season yet since it launched in 2004. NBC has aired Loser against American Idol on Tuesday nights and, while it has trailed behind its Fox competition, it is up 40% compared with last year, when it also ran against Idol.

"The Biggest Loser has become a year-round success story for NBC," executive producer Mark Koops said in a statement. "We're excited to continue making great primetime TV while inspiring and motivating millions of Americans to live healthier lives."

In keeping with the success of the show’s fifth season -- which features teams of couples, family members and co-workers trying to lose weight together -- the network is seeking teams for the sixth installment. Specifically, NBC said, producers for the show will be traveling to America’s fattest cities to cast for contestants.

"The current 'couples' season of The Biggest Loser has been one of the best and most compelling so far in this important franchise," NBC Entertainment executive vice president of alternative programming, development and specials Craig Plestis said in a statement. "We look forward to continuing to inspire and entertain viewers with more remarkable and life-changing weight-loss stories."

NBC did not announce a premiere date for the sixth season.