Jordan Peele is set to breathe new life into the classic hidden camera prank show “Scare Tactics,” with his production company, Monkeypaw Productions, taking the reins for a reboot on USA Network. The show is scheduled to premiere this fall, promising a fresh take on the beloved series that originally aired on Syfy from 2003 to 2013.
The revamped “Scare Tactics” aims to transform unsuspecting individuals into the stars of their own horror films. According to the official description, the show will feature participants who are unwittingly placed in comically terrifying situations, orchestrated by their friends and family. These scenarios will blend elements of reality, horror, and comedy, creating a unique viewing experience that is sure to elicit both laughter and gasps from the audience.
Win Rosenfeld, president of Monkeypaw Productions, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “We’re so grateful at Monkeypaw to help reimagine one of our all-time favorite hidden-camera shows. Working with showrunner Elan Gale, one of the most creative and mischievous minds in unscripted television, and Scott Hallock, the brilliant creator of the original ‘Scare Tactics,’ has been an absolute blast.” He added that the scenarios crafted for this season are “really wild” and that they can’t wait to share the fun with viewers.
The original “Scare Tactics” was known for its outrageous pranks, which included scenarios like campers believing they were being attacked by Bigfoot and staged UFO abductions. The show was hosted by various personalities over its five-season run, including Shannen Doherty, Stephen Baldwin, and Tracy Morgan. The combination of horror and humor made it a standout in the realm of hidden camera shows.
Toby Gorman, president of Universal Television Alternative Studio, also shared his enthusiasm for the reboot, saying, “What do you get when you combine Jordan Peele, hidden cameras, unsuspecting people, and horror-movie scenarios? You’re about to find out!” He emphasized the collaborative effort with Monkeypaw Productions and USA Network, highlighting the creative potential of the project.
The new series will be produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio in association with Monkeypaw Productions and WMTI Productions, Inc. Peele, Rosenfeld, and Jamal Watson will serve as executive producers for Monkeypaw, while Scott Hallock will executive produce for WMTI Productions. Elan Gale, known for his work on “The Bachelor” franchise and Netflix’s horror series, will take on the role of showrunner and executive producer.
The anticipation surrounding the reboot is palpable, especially given Peele’s reputation as a master of horror. His previous works, including “Get Out,” “Us,” and “Nope,” have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, establishing him as a prominent figure in the film industry. The combination of his creative vision and the comedic elements of “Scare Tactics” is expected to deliver a unique and entertaining experience for viewers.
Corie Henson, Executive Vice President of Unscripted Content at NBCUniversal Entertainment, praised Peele’s talent, stating, “As one of the most visionary creators of the day, there is nothing Jordan Peele can’t do. We’re honored to be making our first unscripted series together.” She expressed confidence that the reimagined “Scare Tactics” would be filled with laughs, jump scares, and outrageous moments, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
The original “Scare Tactics” has maintained a loyal fan base over the years, with many viewers expressing their desire for its return. Hallock noted, “Reimagining ‘Scare Tactics’ with Jordan, Monkeypaw, and UTAS has been a dream come true. Fans have been asking us to bring ‘Scare Tactics’ back for years, and working with this team was an amazing opportunity.” He emphasized that there is no one better at blending horror and comedy than Peele and Monkeypaw.
As the fall premiere approaches, excitement continues to build for the return of “Scare Tactics.” The show promises to deliver a fresh and thrilling take on the hidden camera format, with Peele’s signature style adding a new layer of creativity to the mix. Viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions as they watch unsuspecting participants navigate the hilariously twisted scenarios designed to keep them on the edge of their seats.
In conclusion, Jordan Peele’s involvement in the reboot of “Scare Tactics” is a significant development for fans of the original series and newcomers alike. With a blend of horror, humor, and reality, the show is poised to capture the attention of audiences when it debuts on USA Network this fall. As the anticipation builds, viewers are left wondering what surprises Peele and his team have in store for them.
Source: Variety, NBCUniversal Entertainment, USA Network
