‘Grandpas’ to get U.S. adaptation
A U.S. version of the popular Korean reality TV show “Grandpas over Flowers” is scheduled to hit American airwaves in the first half of next year on NBC.
This is the first time a Korean television show format has been adapted for U.S. audiences.
On Thursday, “Grandpas over Flowers” producer Na Young-seok shared details in a roundtable interview about the upcoming series, titled “Better Late than Never.”
Taking the lead will be former “Star Trek” star William Shatner; Henry Winkler of “Happy Days” fame; former football quarterback Terry Bradshaw and former professional boxer and spokesman George Foreman.
The show will follow the same format as the Korean version, in which the cast’s four senior actors are escorted around each destination by a younger counterpart.
In the American version, actor and comedian Jeff Dye has been tapped to serve as tour guide.
“NBC purchased the TV show format the year before last, and the broadcaster spent a year on preparations,” Na said. “It began shooting last fall, and as far as I know, they are adding final touches. It took them three years to produce the show.”
Na added that he has been in talks with producers over the adaptation.
However, he remained cautious when asked about the chances for the show’s success in the United States.
“It’s hard to expect whether it will be a hit because it may not appeal to the U.S. viewers,” he said.
“Grandpas over Flower” first aired in July 2013. Na has produced all four seasons.
By Sung So-young
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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