Seacrest ‘Bank’-ing On New Reality Series

First Published: November 4, 2009 3:03 PM EST Credit: Getty Images

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- Caption Ryan Seacrest is all smiles at the premiere of ‘Funny People’ in Hollywood on July 20, 2009 As if he doesn’t have enough projects on his hands, Ryan Seacrest is taking his production company to the “Bank.”

Ryan Seacrest Prods. and E! are teaming up for “Bank of Hollywood,” a new reality show hoping to capitalize on everyday Americans’ lack of capital.

“The idea’s simple,” Seacrest told The Hollywood Reporter. “We are giving away tons of money to everyday people to alleviate the stress of today’s climate and have fun.”

According to the trade, the proposals range from a do-gooder raising money for charity to a grad student who can’t afford a ring to propose to his girlfriend.

Moreover, panelists will be giving away their own money. They include Wilhelmina Models president and TV Land’s “She’s Got The Look” judge Sean Patterson, author Candy Spelling, poker player Vanessa Rousso, and Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton.

“It’s not business opportunities people are pitching,” Patterson tells Access. “It’s that anyone can come in front of us at any time to ask for money for anything. It’s the most fun, surreal experience you could ever imagine. I can tell you right now, there’s never been a show like this on the air. Ryan’s a genius.”

The eight-episode series premieres on E! at 10 PM on December 14.

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