Channel 4 has ordered a UK version of Ghost, a moving documentary format where terminally ill people deliver a message to their families from beyond the grave. The series is based on the A+E Networks format Voices From the Grave that is in development for A&E by Simon Andreae’s Naked TV.
The British broadcaster has commissioned a three-part series based on the format as part of Ian Katz’s latest programming schedule.
The format, which was being sold by A+E Networks International at October’s Mipcom, follows terminally ill people and creates holograms of them before they die so they can give their families a message when they pass. It offers people facing their final weeks and days the chance to show that death is not the end of their story.
Each contributor will create three or four personal messages, offering comfort, closure, support and advice that they couldn’t or wouldn’t whilst alive, and encouraging those they love to move forward, heal old wounds, or chase their dreams. The messages may be for groups or individuals, family, friends or lovers, and will be delivered via their own hologram in a range of settings pertinent to the contents of the message, whether a favorite restaurant or the family living room.
Ghost was created by Naked’s Andreae, the former Fox reality chief. It was commissioned by C4’s Jonah Weston and is executive produced by Andreae and Becky Clarke.
“Death is an inevitable part of the life cycle, but its finality is often abrupt and heart-rending,” said Andreae. “Working closely with British psychologists, bereavement experts and holographic technology we’ve created an opportunity to enable some families to see and remember their relative or friend looking and sounding vibrant and healthy in vivid 3D holographic form – delivering a personal message that could only come from them. We feel very privileged that the contributors have let us share their loss, and we hope the messages their loved ones have left comfort their families, help them cope with their grief and inspire them throughout their lives.”
Weston added: “Death is the ultimate taboo and I think many people find it hard to say what they really feel in those last moments. To have the chance to leave messages and final wishes for the people you love most is an incredible opportunity, and I am humbled by the people taking part and excited by seeing what they say from ‘beyond the grave.’ ”
Must Read Stories
Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy.