Montel to Host 'American Candidate'
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Showtime's "American Candidate" (search) has elected its host — Montel Williams. (search)
Williams, host of "The Montel Williams Show," will guide "American Candidate" as the reality show ultimately chooses one person who's qualified to run for president of the United States.
The 10-episode series premieres Aug. 1 and is the brainchild of Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker R.J. Cutler ("The War Room," "American High").
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Among the participants is Chrissy Gephardt (search), the openly gay daughter of former Sen. Richard Gephardt.
"Montel Williams . . . has had years of experience interviewing and producing captivating stories about issues facing all types of Americans," says Showtime president Robert Greenblatt.
"This, along with his amazing life experience as a decorated naval officer, successful author and a man determined to bring an end to Multiple Sclerosis, makes him uniquely suited to host 'American Candidate.' "
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
The winner of "American Candidate" will snag $200,000 and a nationwide media appearance after the conclusion of the show — in order to "address" the nation.