MTV develops U.S. version of ‘Skins’

As if MTV doesn’t have enough raunchy programming.

The network, in addition to all its reality offerings, is developing its own version of the controversial U.K. series Skins, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Skins chronicles a group of wild British teens in all their glory, and features some nudity, tons of swearing and copious amounts of drug use. The show also boasts an innovative production model, casts virtual unknowns and employs young, first-time writers.

MTV had wanted Skins as part of their lineup for two years, and beat out The CW for rights to the show. The network will also continue the original’s production model with co-creator Bryan Elsley writing and executive-producing the pilot.

“Skins is one of those rare shows that cuts through to its core audience with unusually authentic stories due to the unique writing and casting process that Bryan pioneered,” said Liz Gateley, the senior VP of MTV Series Development.

“Having personally pursued the U.K. project for almost two years, I am beyond thrilled to bring it to MTV in the U.S. We intend to preserve the authenticity of the British version and are excited to collaborate with the original team to develop stories that will speak to American youth.”

However, it will be changed a bit. Gateley confirmed that MTV’s version would not show nudity, nor would it use certain four-letter words. But Gately said the project will still break “new territory” for the network nonetheless.

The cast will consist of teens, aged 16 to 19 and producers plan to set the show in Baltimore. Focus groups have been held in the city to source story ideas for the pilot.

In Canada, the U.K. version of Skins airs on Super Channel.

denette@tvguide.ca

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