E! Orders Jonas Brothers Docu-Series, Nigel Lythgoe Music Show - Hollywood Reporter

E! is delving deeper into the music business with opening acts and a Jonas Brother.

As part of its upfront presentation to advertisers Monday, the cable network will announce new unscripted series from Nigel Lythgoe and Ryan Seacrest, in addition to a robust scripted slate. The former, Opening Act, revolves around finding acts to open for some of music’s biggest names; the latter, Married to Jonas, centers on the oldest of the Jonas Brothers, Kevin Jonas and his wife Danielle.

On Act, Lythgoe will usher the cable network into the competitive music competition market with a series that counts Mary J. Blige and Rock Mafia producer Antonina Armato as part of its artist development team. That team will comb the Internet in search of talented amateurs capable of opening for such acts as Nicki Minaj, LMFAO, Brad Paisley, Gym Class Heroes and Jason Mraz. 

Olivia Lee, best known for her hidden camera segments on The Tonight Show, will surprise these unknown acts at their homes to present them with the opportunity. From there, they're brought to Hollywood for a performance boot camp, mentoring sessions and, finally, a one-night only performance that could make or break their career. The series, which is being produced by Nigel Lythgoe Productions, will bow July 9 at 10 pm. In addition to Lythgoe, Steve Schnur, Simon Lythgoe andKary McHoul will serve as executive producers.

“With this unexpected break and whirlwind journey comes raw emotion, nerves and intense preparation. The question is whether or not the opening acts can truly seize the moment and use this extraordinary opportunity as a stepping stone to the career they never thought possible,” says E! entertainment president Suzanne Kolb.

For its part, Jonas will track the young couple as they attempt to balance love, fame and business, a sometimes challenge as the Jonas Brothers head back into the studio to record new music. The show's 10 episode season is set to bow August 19, with half-hour installments airing at 10 pm.

To be sure, the cameras are nothing new for Kevin Jonas, whose every move was captured as he and his two brothers rose to fame on and off the Disney stage. Seacrest, too, has plenty of experience with such peek-behind-the-curtain celebrity docu-series including E’s hugely popular Kardashian franchise. In addition to Seacrest, the project will include Stephanie Bloch Chambers and Adam Sher for Ryan Seacrest Productions as EPs.

"The series presents a unique look at a young couple and their families from two entirely different worlds, one small town and one dealing with international fame, coming together as one and starting a whole new life together,” said E!’s entertainment programming chief Lisa Berger.

Email: Lacey.Rose@THR.com; Twitter: @LaceyVRose