Foxtel announces reboot of cult music gameshow Rockwiz – and Julia Zemiro is returning to host
Rockwiz is set to make a comeback in 2023 after being off the air since 2016.
Foxtel has commissioned eight episodes of the cult favorite for next year, reports TV Tonight.
Originally broadcast on SBS from 2005, the music trivia panel show hosted by Julia Zemira, 55, lasted for 14 seasons before being cancelled.
Julia Zemiro (pictured) will return to host cult game show Rockwiz on Foxtel in 2023
Fans can look forward to a new look for the show, which will be filmed in front of a live audience.
The show mixes comedy with live music as contestants are quizzed on their knowledge of rock and pop music.
In addition to Zemiro, adjudicator Brian Nankervis and ‘human scoreboard’ Dugald McAndrew will also be returning for the new season.
Meanwhile, a new Rockwiz orchestra, which will play musical ‘clues’ for contestants, as well as provide backing for guest artists, has been commissioned for the reboot.
Originally broadcast on SBS from 2005, the music trivia panel show hosted by Julia Zemira, 55, lasted for 14 seasons before being cancelled
The band will feature musicians Peter Luscombe (musical director and drums), Clio Renner (keyboards and backing vocals), Bill McDonald (bass), and Olympia (lead guitar and vocals).
‘It’s not often you get a second bite at the cherry,’ Julia said, commenting on the show’s unexpected revival.
‘Rockwiz hasn’t been on TV in a long time, but we will be back on screens to celebrate our music genius contestants. I can’t wait to welcome back new and established musicians to join in the quiz and surprise us with an unexpected duet.’
The show mixes comedy with live music as contestants are quizzed on their knowledge of rock and pop music
Rockwiz has been kept alive as a successful touring stage show since it was canceled seven years ago.
Viewers were outraged at the cancellation of the show in 2016. Almost 20,000 music fans signed a petition to keep Rockwiz on the air.
The reboot will be produced by Renegade Films for Foxtel and is created by Ken Connor, Peter Bain-Hogg and Brian Nankervis.
Rockwiz has been kept alive as a successful touring stage show since it was canceled seven years ago