Netflix to release second series of UK’s answer to Selling Sunset despite ratings flop
NETFLIX clearly believes Buying London is a fixer upper, because despite it failing to set the market alight they are eyeing a second series.
The show followed the super-glam team at DDRE London, a group of estate agents flogging Mayfair mansions and country estates to multi-millionaires.
It was hoped that the seven-parter would emulate the success of its American counterpart, Selling Sunset.
But viewers failed to invest in the glossy reality show in the same way and it was critically panned.
Regardless, I can reveal Netflix believes the format is worth another spin and are in talks to follow Daniel Daggers’ team for another round.
A source said: “Buying London has all the right ingredients to be a hit and followed the Selling Sunset recipe for the letter – it had property porn, in-fighting, romance and drama plus a dusting of celebrity sparkle.
“It managed to make Netflix’s UK top ten twice, but otherwise it wasn’t a runaway ratings success.
“But it’s relatively cheap to make and bosses think it’s worth another lap of the block.”
The series followed self-styled Daniel, nicknamed Mr Super Prime, and his team, including glamorous ex-Sky Sports presenter Olivia Wayne and breakout star, Lauren Christy.
They toured footie ace Raheem Sterling’s rental property, actress Salma Hayek‘s Holland Park abode and London’s most expensive home – second only to Buckingham Palace.
I’m sure there is plenty more properties to take a nosy at.
STEPHEN: IT'S SHOO TO SUSHI
STEPHEN Mulhern could be jetting off to Japan for new TV show, but on one condition – he can stick to his beige diet.
The In For A Penny host won’t be tucking into any local delicacies, or even a sushi platter, if he does make the trip as he only likes bland food.
He told The Sunday Times: “I’m not very worldly – and I’m a plain eater. My good friend Emma Willis told me I should be called ‘Fifty shades of beige’.
“When I’m away, and I see people eating things like sushi, I wish I could try it, but I just can’t.
“There’s talk of me filming in Japan next year, and I’m thinking it would be great, but I don’t think I’ve got the guts to go – I mean literally.”
Ends in a triangle
BOBBY BRAZIER could be at the heart of an EastEnders love triangle.
The actor, who plays Freddie Slater in the soap, is seen joining Anna star Molly Rainford and Bobby’s Clay Milney Russell on their date next week.
Freddie gets stuck in helping his friend plan the fun day out for his girlfriend, who has little input or ideas when it comes to the romantic day out.
But it could leave Anna’s head turning if she realises that the special day has little to do with Bobby, as it was Freddie who came up with all the ideas.
The episode will be available to stream next Monday on BBC iPlayer, and air Tuesday night on BBC2.
KAYA HAS TOP ROLL
KAYA SCODELARIO loves playing a bolshy crime boss on The Gentlemen – because she gets plenty of chances to roll her eyes in disdain.
The actress, who portrays Susie Glass in the Netflix hit, loves her character’s tough, self-assured nature.
And Kaya – whose screen dad Bobby is played by Ray Winstone – also praised the tone of the Guy Ritchie-directed series.
She told Netflix’s Queue magazine: “That dry, dark humour and sarcasm is something Brits do uniquely well. I’ve never enjoyed getting to roll my eyes so much on camera.”
The Gentlemen racked up 215million viewing hours in its first two weeks, but hasn’t yet announced a second series.
TOGETHER FOR NEVER AND EVER
THE Nevermets is the controversial Channel 4 dating series that sees online couples meet each other face-to-face meet for the first time.
But despite fears of catfishing, and dating disasters, one pair on the show have proven the unusual arrangement can work – and wed days after meeting.
And what’s more, I can reveal Matt, from Warrington, and Maria, from the Philippines – who dated online for three years – are still together and living in the UK in their own apartment, and celebrate their fifth anniversary later this year.
Matt, who was a virgin and only had one serious girlfriend before meeting Maria via a dating app, said: “I joined dating sites because I’ve always been shy around girls. I hadn’t had a girlfriend since high school as I lacked confidence, but Maria made me feel comfortable.
“Of course there are a lot of scammers out there, there’s always going to be catfishing.
“When it comes to whether online dating works, there are doubters – people talk negatively about their experiences – but there are genuine relationships out there, too.
“We’ve proven it can be a success.”
- Watch Matt and Maria on The Nevermets, Friday, 10pm.
DIGITAL CURATOR DEBATE
THE booming world of cryptocurrency has made its fair share of millionaires.
But for art curator Ben Moore the world of NFTs – non-fungible tokens – is what finished his business empire.
NFTs are unique digital codes that represent digital or real items, such as art and property, and can be traded.
He’s the star of new BBC Two documentary The Stormtrooper Scandal, which airs on Thursday at 9pm. It documents his part in what is considered to be the biggest scam sale of NFT art ever.
The show reveals how Ben, who made millions from online sales, is far from living the high life.
He explains in the documentary: “There are a lot of people after me. They probably think I’m sauntering around in a silk robe on some sandy island. I don’t mind . . . I’d rather they thought I was rich than knowing I’m poor.
“I’ve got nothing. I can’t even afford a drink at the pub.”