UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – NBC’s popular reality series “The Biggest Loser” is launching a 13-city cross-country search to find new contestants for the next edition of the hit show. Individuals who have at least 85 lbs. to lose are encouraged to apply for the new season, which will air in January 2013.

Casting producers are looking for charismatic individuals who have the desire to change their lives forever and vie for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lose weight and compete for a grand prize of $250,000. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and legal residents of the United States. For those who are unable to attend a casting call, information on how to apply to the show and submit a video is available on http://www.thebiggestlosercasting.com.

People will not be allowed to line up prior to three hours before the start of the open call. Candidates should bring a non-returnable photo of themselves. The casting team will do their best to see everyone that arrives before the end time of the open call.

SATURDAY, JULY 14, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.: RALEIGH at Rex Healthcare, 6602 Knightdale Blvd., Knightdale, N.C. 27545

Alison Sweeney is the host of “The Biggest Loser,” which challenges and encourages overweight contestants to shed pounds in a safe and recommended manner through comprehensive diet and exercise as they compete for a grand prize of $250,000. The series provides the contestants with challenges, temptations, weigh-ins and eliminations until the final contestant remains to claim the title of "the biggest loser." Contestants work out under the supervision of professional trainers Bob Harper and Dolvett Quince. "The Biggest Loser" is a production of Shine America, 25/7 Productions and 3 Ball Productions. Ben Silverman, Dave Broome, JD Roth, Todd A. Nelson and Todd Lubin are the executive producers.