Much-loved TV host Paddy McGuinness is announced today as presenter of BBC One’s brand new tribute act spectacular, Even Better Than The Real Thing, from BBC Studios.

Paddy McGuinness says: “This show is a belter! A talent show that’s only about the talent - with the best tribute acts from around the world singing their hearts out. You'll never have to fork out for expensive concert tickets again. You've got front row seats!"

The 60-minute special will celebrate the biggest names in pop music by bringing together the world’s top tribute artists for a glamorous night of performing and competing.

With music from the likes of Whitney Houston, George Michael, Little Mix, Ariane Grande and Bruno Mars - Even Better Than The Real Thing will bring together performances from tribute artists who are quite simply the very best in the game.

At the end of the show the live studio audience will vote for their favourite performer; the one act on the night that truly is even better than the real thing.

Also announced today, Even Better Than The Real Thing will have the festive treatment in an additional Christmas special for 2017. The tribute acts will perform much adored Christmas favourites from across the decades. More details will be revealed in due course.

Rachel Ashdown, BBC Entertainment Commissioning Editor says: "We are thrilled that Paddy will be bringing his unique brand of warmth and wit to these shows which promise to give you some of the best loved songs, performed as you have never seen them before."

Even Better Than The Real Thing has been commissioned by Charlotte Moore, Director, Content and Kate Phillips, Controller, BBC Entertainment Commissioning. Rachel Ashdown is the Commissioning Editor.

It is produced by BBC Studios Entertainment, Music and Events in Salford and films this summer at MediaCity UK.

The Executive Producers are Andrew Cartmell and Kieron Collins, Managing Editor of BBC Studios Entertainment North. The Series Producer is Maisie Maguire.