Fox orders downsizing reality series

"You're fired" -- but for real.

Fox has ordered a one-hour unscripted series that turns real-life company layoffs into a reality contest.

The show's working title is Someone's Gotta Go. Employees are called to a meeting and informed there will be layoffs, but with a reality show twist: The staff will be allowed to determine who is fired.

The employees will have access to the company's internal information -- budgets, HR files, salaries, etc. -- to help make their decision.

It's the anti-Apprentice: Instead of contestants vying for a dream job, they're fighting to keep the lousy one they already have.

Each episode will focus on one small company (less than 20 employees). The host is a business expert, not yet named, who also serves as a consultant to the companies featured on the show. There's no word yet when Someone's will air. 

The show's concept (produced by Endemol) goes against the instincts of most broadcaster programmers, who are picking up shows that remind viewers of anything but the economy. "Escapism" and "comfort food" have been mandates as networks try to find programs that help viewers forget the recession. The order comes on the heels of Fox announcing More to Love, a dating show for overweight contestants. 

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