Food Network Whips Up ‘Candy Land’ Competition Series

Food Network will sweeten up its lineup with the development of a new series Candy Land, hosted by actress/singer Kristin Chenoweth.

The six-episode series, based on the popular Hasbro children’s game, features five groups of players made up of cake and sugar artists creating eye-popping and delectable confectionery showpieces for a chance at at $25,000 grand prize, the network said. The players must also make their way through the iconic and visionary world of Candy Land seeking out different flavors and unique ingredients to use in each edible land as they work to reach their final destination: King Kandy's Castle, said Food Network.

"Whether it is exploring the Peppermint Forest or a hike to the Gumdrop Mountains, Candy Land has long been a childhood staple, allowing players' imaginations to run free,” said Food Network president Courtney White in a statement. “We are thrilled to be able to offer our audience an escape to this magical land, and with Kristin Chenoweth as host, there is nobody better at taking viewers on this immersive journey for some fun and excitement." 

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.