Pasadena, Calif. -- A&E Network will move its original reality programming from the skies to the road with the creation of two new auto-based reality series -- part of a slate of original shows the network is expected to announce Thursday at the Television Critics Association press tour here.
With reality series Airline officially grounded late last year after three seasons on the air, A&E will look to move viewers with a behind-the-scenes look at drag racing, courtesy of new series Driving Force, according to network officials. The series will focus on the lives of champion dragster John Force and his three drag-racing daughters.
The world of car sales will also be explored in a new series dubbed King of Cars. The reality skein will focus on the life of a successful Las Vegas auto salesman who has to balance his business with the demands of being a father, rap impresario, radio host, Vegas player and TV-infomercial star and producer.
As part of its new development slate, A&E will also get up close and personal with rock star and KISS band member Gene Simmons and his family in a new reality series titled Gene Simmons Family Jewels.
In the mold of MTV: Music Television's The Osbournes and A&E's recently canceled Growing Up Gotti, Family Jewels will profile the day-to-day lives of Simmons, his significant other and former Playboy Playmate Shannon Tweed and their two kids as they balance fame with the simple home life, according to network executives.
