PREMIERE

AN OVER-ACHIEVING YOUNG WOMAN BATTLING OBESITY TAKES ON THE CHALLENGE OF HER LIFE - TO LOSE OVER 200 POUNDS -- ON THE SERIES PREMIERE OF ABC'S "EXTREME MAKEOVER: WEIGHT LOSS EDTION," MONDAY, MAY 30

In This Unique, Non-Competitive Show About Weight Loss, Each of Eight Stand-Alone Episodes Chronicles One Extraordinary Year in One Person's Life

Trainer and Transformation Specialist Chris Powell Guides Participants in Their Year-Long Process As They Undergo a Transformation Not Only of Their Bodies, But of Who They Are as Individuals

"Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition" is a one-hour alternative series that will document the amazing makeover of eight courageous, "super obese" people who, in an unprecedented 365 days, attempt to safely lose half of their body weight, ultimately completing an amazing metamorphosis. The term "super obese" is used to define those who exceed their estimated ideal weight by approximately 225 percent and who are roughly 200 pounds or more overweight. "Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition" premieres MONDAY, MAY 30 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

In the premiere episode, "Rachel," trainer and transformation specialist Chris Powell takes on proverbial over-achiever Rachel, who has been able to accomplish nearly everything she has set out to do so far in her young life -- except the one goal that eludes her, to lose weight. At only 21 years old, Rachel weighs nearly 400 pounds. While living at home surrounded by her fit siblings, she feels she's the "elephant in the room." As a result, she believes she can never make her parents truly proud, until she loses weight. However, Rachel soon learns she will get the opportunity of a lifetime when Chris surprises her at the school where, ironically, she teaches young children physical education.

During her first week with Chris in "boot camp" at California Health & Longevity Institute, Rachel goes through extensive medical testing, nutrition classes and intense workouts. Chris then takes her back home to Georgia, where he lays out the goals for each of her four, three-month phases of weight loss. With Chris by her side, Rachel pushes hard, hoping to reach her first goal of shedding 80 pounds in three months. Still, her efforts are constantly challenged by her family's inability to fully support her new lifestyle. But Rachel has the tools, and she has Chris in her corner. Does she have the fortitude to succeed on this one-year journey and ultimately change her life forever?

From the producers of "The Biggest Loser" and "MasterChef," "Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition" is executive-produced by JD Roth, Todd A. Nelson and Matt Assmus. It is produced by 3 Ball Productions/Eyeworks USA.

The series is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.