MTV launches antidote to "Pop Idol"

MTV is to counter the "Pop Idol" formula through a new major series dubbed "Breaking Point".

15:00 06 April 2004

MTV is to counter the "Pop Idol" formula through a new major series dubbed "Breaking Point".

The fly-on-the-wall rock documentary series will follow several real bands as they try to get a break in the music business.

According to MTV, the show will follow A&R executives from Island Records as they tour tiny venues in search of the next The Darkness or Coldplay.

"Breaking Point" will show the groups during meetings with Island's executives, recording sessions, video shoots and media interviews.

The show culminates with the release of their first singles.

Included in the first series are acts by an Irish all-girl group, a Norwegian skate punk ensemble, and an American rock band.

Chris Sice, MTV UK and Ireland's vice-president of development, said: "It's an eye opener for anyone who ever entertained dreams of rock stardom and an entertaining look at the characters behind the hit records."

"Breaking Point" will hit screens on Mondays to Wednesdays, starting from May 17th at 9pm, and is being produced by Money Productions.