MTV announces 'Washington Heights' premiere date

An MTV docu-series will premiere Jan. 9 with back-to- back episodes.

“Washington Heights” will have 11 hour- long episodes. It is set in Washington Heights, an exciting and diverse New York neighborhood, and will follow nine best friends working toward individual pursuits.

“’Washington Heights’ is an honest, intimate and entertaining look inside the lives, spirit and hustle of a unique group of individuals as they strive to pursue their passions,” Chris Linn, executive vice president programming and head of production at MTV, said. “The show celebrates their friendship, neighborhood pride and mutual support as they make their mark – even when the challenges are great. We are optimistic that the stories of this incredibly appealing cast will connect with our audience in a deep and meaningful way.”

Cast members include JP (a.k.a. Audubon), Reyna, Frankie, Ludwin, Jimmy, Eliza, Rico, Fred and Taylor. MTV is apparently hoping this show and “Buckwild” will fill the void “Jersey Shore” will create when it concludes this season.

Gigantic! Productions is producing the series. Cheryl Horner Sirulnick, George McTeague and Patrick Reardon will exec produce with Linn, Shannon Fitzgerald, Christy Spitzer, Beck Hickey, Craig Sloane and Jim Czarnecki.

The show will also air on MTV international networks next year.