Spy: TVNZ set to get dirty

The cast of Filthy Rich, one of TVNZ's new shows premiering next year and showcased at today's launch.

The star of today's TVNZ season launch was the hot, sexy, scandalous multi-night TV2 drama Filthy Rich. Glossy TVNZ show reels showed a stellar line-up of programming across TV One, TV2 and On Demand for the coming year.

Multi-night TV has been the domain of reality television until now, but today's launch signaled drama is now on trend, with reality television on the outer.

TVNZ unveiled its new season line up to media at the Viaduct Events Centre this afternoon, where the broadcaster reiterated its strong focus on local content, alongside some of the best of what's available from around the world.

Key members of the TVNZ executive beamed smiles as they delivered sales-worthy pitches on the brand new and returning shows that will grace our screens next year.

Leading the local slate is the Filthy Rich series (which indeed looks hot!); spectacular Sir Edmund Hillary drama series Hillary; and the gritty new drama Dirty Laundry.

Other highlights include local versions of the beautifully shot Coast New Zealand and iconic quiz show Mastermind, as well as new factual series The Big Ward.

The international slate includes the hotly anticipated contemporary reboot of The Muppets; new medical drama Code Black; chilling dramas Blindspot and The Catch; and action-packed series The Player and Supergirl.

A scene from the TV show Supergirl.

TVNZ's Director of Content Jeff Latch told Spy: "The company has a history of leading in terms of local content and 2016 will be no different.

"Our local content strategy is something we are very proud of, we prioritise our news and current affairs offerings and invest heavily in a range of key drama, entertainment and factual projects.

"In 2016 you will see us diversify further with our first ever locally produced multi-night drama Filthy Rich. Multi-night has traditionally been reality-only territory and we think Kiwi audiences will be open to something new on this front - the show is also outrageously good!" says Latch.

The 1980s style mini-series worked for Spy, so bring it on we say.

The Muppets.

Reality TV still has a place on the TVNZ schedule, in the form of cooking show MKR New Zealand, which will screen shortly on TV2. Spy hears it has been rebooted and will have the mix of guests and slick production on par with its Australian version.

Guests were bribed with a range of canapés and 'show-themed' cocktails including the 'Code Black Bloody Mary', and, a particular Spy favourite, 'Sir Ed's Iced Tea'. Tonight TVNZ will present the whole show again with its stable of stars mixing with advertisers and media.

Catch Spy's exclusive interview with Filthy Rich lead actor, Josh McKenzie, in the Herald on Sunday this week and find out what McKenzie means when he says his character is open minded.

- nzherald.co.nz