"Tontine" to Offer Largest Giveaway in Reality TV History  6/19/07

'Tontine' Boasts Largest Giveaway in Reality TV History - $10 Million Prize to Be Awarded on New Reality Game Show

LOS ANGELES, June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Survivor contestant and reality show personality "Boston Rob" Mariano announced today that he will host a new reality game show, "TONTINE," where one contestant will win the biggest cash prize in the history of reality television -- $10 million.

"TONTINE" is an exhilarating new reality TV game show that will give 15 competitive individuals the chance of a lifetime. Beginning June 30 and continuing throughout the summer, Rob Mariano and the entire "TONTINE" casting team will travel to select cities across the nation including Dallas, Nashville, New York, Boston, St. Louis, Minneapolis, San Diego and Los Angeles where they will choose 15 lucky contestants to participate in an adventure that will undoubtedly change their lives. Applicants who are unable to come to a casting event are encouraged to visit http://www.JoinTheTontine.com to find out how to apply online.

The series is based on the premise of a "TONTINE," an arrangement that allows a group of individuals to contribute to a common fund and awards the money to the person who remains in the "TONTINE " the longest. At the start, each contestant will be given a special key that has the ability to unlock part of the $10 million fortune. Then, over the course of 100 days of mental and physical challenges, contestants will battle for possession of keys held by their fellow competitors. In the end, the one person who possesses all 15 keys wins the $10 million prize.

Mariano, a Boston native known as "Boston Rob," from Survivor Marquesas is a reality TV star who has appeared on Survivor: All-Stars, The Amazing Race, The Amazing Race All-Stars, and Rob & Amber: Against the Odds. Mariano's extensive reality TV experience makes him a seasoned expert on game strategy and, more importantly, how to motivate contestants to give their all. "My own personal experiences will provide insight for the competitors to go for the win, no matter what it takes," said Mariano.

The "TONTINE" casting tour kicks off in Dallas, Texas on June 30, 2007. The signature vehicle, a tricked-out armored transport truck will visit city landmarks throughout the week providing an opportunity for people to learn more about the "TONTINE" and try their luck at "cracking the safe" for additional prizes. At each location Mariano will be joined by acclaimed Hollywood casting director Tad Frank, whose credits include Survivor, The Amazing Race and The Bachelor. "We are looking for some really great game players who are also risk takers," said Frank.

"TONTINE" is slated to premiere on television in Spring 2008. Additional information can be found online at http://www.JoinTheTontine.com. 

SOURCE TONTINE

-0- 06/19/2007