E! Entertainment Television announces a new series that unites a panel of celebrities to dish out money to people with the most compelling needs for cash and proves that Hollywood really is a place where dreams come true.  People can make requests for any amount of money for anything they choose.  The panelists include best-selling author and entrepreneur Candy Spelling, international poker phenomenon Vanessa Rousso, Wilhelmina Models President Sean Patterson and Pussycat Dolls singer Melody Thornton who determine which hopefuls are truly deserving of their riches.  The series is hosted by actor and comedian Bryan Callen.  The eight-episode, one-hour series “Bank of Hollywood” premieres Monday, December 14 at 10pmET/PT on E!

In each episode, hopefuls from across the country take center stage in front of a studio audience and present to the panel why they deserve a piece of the Hollywood pot.  From a do-gooder who wants to raise money for charity to a smitten grad student who can’t afford a ring to propose to his girlfriend to a cheerleading squad looking for funds to travel to their first national competition, the requests can result in intense, heartwarming and often humorous debate as to whether or not someone should receive a portion of their cash.

“The panelists are giving people the opportunity to garner life-changing sums of money,” said Lisa Berger, Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Series Development for E!  “Their big personalities and strong opinions, on top of requests that run the gamut from heartwarming to downright peculiar, are sure to keep things heated and unpredictable – you truly never know who’s going to walk away with cash.”

Ryan Seacrest added, "The idea's simple, we are giving away tons of money to everyday people to alleviate the stress of today's climate and have fun!"

The four panelists were approached by E! to participate in the show based on their wealth of experience and success across many industries, as well as unique personal journeys that influence their decision-making and generosity.  These panelists decided to forgo their compensation to create the Bank of Hollywood.  Thanks to their tremendous commitment to giving back, the Bank of Hollywood can now fulfill dreams across America…provided your plea can persuade them.

As a New York Times best-selling author, journalist, civic official, animal lover and humanitarian, Candy Spelling was sought after for her giving spirit, business smarts and engaging personality.  Spelling was married to legendary television icon Aaron Spelling for 38 years and her close ties to Hollywood are infinite.  Vanessa Rousso is a knockout French American professional poker player who ranks among the top five most successful women in poker history.  Sean Patterson is President of Wilhelmina Models and has worked with an impressive client roster that includes Fergie, Natasha Bedingfield, Justin Chambers, Gabriel Aubry and Ciara.  Melody Thornton is a sexy vocalist, dancer and model who rose to stardom as a member of the multi-platinum selling girl group Pussycat Dolls.  The series is hosted by comedian Bryan Callen.

“Bank of Hollywood” is produced by Ryan Seacrest Productions (RSP) in association with Fever Media and BBC Worldwide Productions.  Executive Producers are Ryan Seacrest for RSP, David Mortimer and Richard Hopkins for Fever Media, and Stuart Krasnow.  The show format is based upon the UK series “Fortune: Million Pound Giveaway” produced by Fever Media.