Syfy goes for the 'Obvious'

Billy Ray Cyrus, son team to investigate paranormal

Syfy is getting into the Billy Ray Cyrus business, moving into development on "UFO: Unbelievably Freakin' Obvious," a new reality skein in which conspiracy theories involving unexplained activity and paranormal phenomena are investigated.

Cyrus and son Trace will travel cross-country and offer a skeptical solution to many of the theories. Pilot, to be produced by Peacock Prods., will be shot in a few weeks.

"The existence of paranormal phenomena is something I've always wanted to explore further," Cyrus said. "Getting the opportunity to take this adventure with my son, who has always had a keen interest in this area, is a dream come true. I hope this series can shine a light on some of the activities we have questioned, and the mysteries that have long inspired us."

Said Mark Stern, exec VP of original programming for Syfy: "Allegations of cover-up and conspiracy around unexplained phenomena has inspired heated debate for decades, and it will be interesting to see what truth Billy Ray and Trace may discover."

Cyrus, a country music star who's 1992 song "Achy Breaky Heart" made him a worldwide phenomenon, appeared as a contestant on "Dancing With the Stars" and hosted reality series "Nashville Star." He also co-starred on Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana" alongside his daughter, Miley Cyrus.

NBC Universal cabler recently ordered four-hour miniseries "Neverland," a prequel to "Peter Pan" from Brit writer-director Nick Willing.

Contact Stuart Levine at stuart.levine@variety.com.