Hairy Bikers US coming to History channel

BBC Worldwide Productions has confirmed that an American version of cooking show the Hairy Bikers is to be produced for the History channel in the US.

The commission is part of a partnership struck with the Hairy Bikers to licence their brand and programme formats around the world. The bikers - Dave Myers and Simon King – are managed by the James Grant Group (JGG) both domestically and internationally.

US cable channel History has commissioned Los Angeles-based BBC Worldwide Productions to produce 12 episodes for broadcast later this year. The show will feature former White House Chef Paul Patranella and his motorcycle mechanic and friend of 20 years, Bill Allen, as the US bikers.

This marks Worldwide's first deal for the Hairy Bikers brand since striking the partnership, which includes DVD, merchandise and live events rights globally.

In February, Myers and King also signed an exclusive two-year deal with the corporation to keep their various cookery shows to BBC Two.

Matt Paice, the executive vice president of international production at BBC Worldwide, said: "The Hairy Bikers have really captured viewers' attention in the UK and the introduction of their Stateside doppelgangers is a really exciting development.

"We look forward to striking innovative new deals for Dave & Si and we will be looking for talent to replicate this success for broadcasters around the world."

Holly Pye, head of television at JGG, said: "The History deal represents the first of its kind for the Bikers. We look forward to working in partnership (for our clients) with BBC Worldwide in the coming months and years. History has the ideal platform and audience from which to showcase the Bikers unique concept."

In a joint statement, the Hairy Bikers commented: "We are delighted to be working with BBC Worldwide. The company has a fantastic track record of building successful international brands and we are looking forward to seeing what tasty treats our American cousins will be cooking up across the pond!"

Worldwide has already brokered deals for a US version of Top Gear, which recently finished its second series. The organisation reported record underlying profits of £160.2 million in the year to March, buoyed by continuing popularity of brands such as Top Gear and Doctor Who.