Los Angeles, April 30, 2012 - From International Emmy(R) winning producer Nigel Lythgoe comes the new series that breaks the mold of talent/reality television. In "Opening Act", Lythgoe and his A-List Artist Development Team - including Grammy(R) winning superstar Mary J. Blige and chart-topping producer Antonina Armato from Rock Mafia - comb the Internet to find the web's most talented amateurs, then give them the once-in-a-lifetime chance to open for a top music superstar. But here, there are no judges to woo, auditions to pass or rounds to win: Each band or solo act has only days to prepare after a surprise visit that presents them with an opportunity they never knew existed, and viewers follow them from obscurity to the big-time gig that could change their lives forever. A true first of its kind, "Opening Act" will showcase not only some extraordinary, unknown talent, but the emotional and very personal journey that awaits them on their way to perform on a national stage. Produced by Nigel Lythgoe Productions, "Opening Act" premieres July 9 at 10:00 pm ET/PT only on E!