ITV teams up with Bauer magazines for journalists' 'The Apprentice'

ITV has partnered with some of Bauer Media's biggest magazine brands for a new ITV2 series that promises to be The Apprentice for journalists.

The Exclusives, produced by Educating Essex maker Twofour, is a new reality TV series set in the "fast-paced and competitive world of magazine publishing".

The show will feature six young journalists competing in a series of challenges to win a 12-month contract with Bauer Media, working on titles such as Heat, FHM, Closer, More, Kerrang and Empire.

Each trainee will refine their skills under the tuition of staff at the magazines, including coaching on how to cover major events, interview stars, organise photoshoots and write articles that connect with readers.

ITV's director of digital channels and acquisitions Angela Jain, who commissioned The Exclusives, said: "We're very excited about The Exclusives and we're grateful to Bauer Media for allowing unparalleled access to their biggest and best magazines and for providing a fantastic role at the end of the process for one lucky candidate.

"Twofour have great experience in making engaging and must-watch multi-platform TV shows and we're confident that this seven-part series will prove to be a real hit for our ITV2 audience."

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The Exclusives was co-conceived by Bauer creative director Julian Linley, but the company will not provide any funding for the production.

However, ahead of the series premiering on ITV2 later in the year, Bauer will promote the programme across its magazine, online and radio portfolios, which reach a combined audience of more than 19m UK adults.

This will start with a casting call for the six candidate journalists in print across Bauer Media brands featured in the show, including Heat, Closer and More.

Bauer Media managing director of lifestyle and advertising Abby Carvasso said: "This breakthrough media partnership will deliver an exciting new TV programme that shows what it really takes to create the most exciting magazines in the country.

"We're on the hunt for a gutsy, fearless and talented individual who stands out from the crowd and we're sure it will be a great watch!"

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