Joel Osteen, Mark Burnett Partner For Reality Show About Lakewood Church Mission Trips

Megachurch Leader Gets Reality Show

Houston megachurch leader Joel Osteen will soon be coming to a television near you -- this time as the star of his own reality show.

The preacher and his family have partnered with "Survivor" producer Mark Burnett for a show about Lakewood Church's mission trips, the Associated Press reports. The show, which will focus on "people helping people," is expected to air some time in 2012.

Osteen has reportedly been approached for several reality shows in the past, but this one caught his attention, according to the Houston Chronicle.

"We have great respect for Mark and we know that the finished product will not only entertain but will illustrate the generosity and selflessness that is a hallmark of the American people," Osteen told "Entertainment Tonight".

Don Iloff, Lakewood spokesperson, told the Chronicle that the program will have a feel-good premise similar to that of reality shows such as "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."

At least one expert says he's not surprised by the pastor's new endeavor.

"In an era where media exposure is the Holy Grail, this is to be expected," Richard Flory, an expert at the American Christianity at the Center for Religion and Civic Culture at USC told the Chronicle.

Osteen currently hosts weekly religious broadcasts that reach around 200 million homes, according to the Associated Press.

Joel Osteen is famous for his toothy smile--take a look at him flashing those pearly whites:

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