Talpa Studios and Novy Channel bring successful format The Floor to Ukraine

In this special version of The Floor, the 100 contestants are Ukrainians who fled the war in their home country and most of them currently live in the Netherlands. From women and young adults trying to build up an existence in the Netherlands, to veterans who are currently in the Netherlands for physical rehabilitation. They are selected by a Ukrainian casting crew, working from Talpa Studios’ local office in Laren. During the selection process, contestants shared moving stories and personal stories of the past 1,5 years.

Olga Zadorozhna, General Manager, Novy Channel: “Talpa Studios’ support means a lot to us and all Ukrainians. The show’s unique format fosters a sense of unity within society, emphasizing the importance of socialization for veterans and promoting our language and culture. We know that there is an increasing demand for entertainment shows in Ukraine and we greatly appreciate the sympathy of Talpa Studios and their local partners for our country. We are honored to work with the world leader in formats”.

John de Mol, owner Talpa Studios: “At the beginning of the year, we welcomed a Ukrainian colleague to our Global Distribution team, and she told us how much the people in her home country craved entertainment as a temporary distraction from the war. We were all moved by her story and decided to contribute by doing what we do best: making great entertainment shows. Ukraine has always been a frontrunner in locally producing formats such as The Voice, I Love My Country and Dating in the Dark – shows I had a key role in developing. We’re happy that we are now also able to bring the successful quiz show The Floor to Ukraine, and we hope it will offer them a welcome distraction.”

About The Floor
The Floor had a remarkable debut season in the Netherlands on RTL4, and a second season has already been announced. The popular quiz show continues its success, with major broadcast commissions in France, Spain, Romania, Germany, Italy and the U.S. In The Floor, 100 contestants face off in quiz duels on a giant LED floor divided into one hundred squares, representing categories ranging from ‘famous athletes’ and ‘Hollywood actors’ to ‘iconic buildings’ and ‘mammals.’ A random contestant challenges an adjoining opponent to a quiz duel in his or her category. The winner of a duel takes over the opponent’s square, gaining more ground – the loser leaves the game. The contestant who takes over the entire floor wins a large cash prize.