MTV’s venerable unscripted format is heading deep into the heart of Texas — where, rumor has it, the stars at night are big and bright — for its 16th season. Production on “Real World XVI” will begin in Austin in the first quarter of 2005.

“They say everything is bigger and better in Texas, and ‘The Real World’ is no exception,” says Jon Murray, the show’s co-creator and president of Bunim-Murray Productions. “Our Austin cast may be the best we’ve ever assembled, and I know they’re going to feel right at home in this vibrant city.”

Given the number of problems MTV had while filming “Real World XV” in Philadelphia, the Austin civic leaders seem happy that the rowdiness is coming to their hometown.

“MTV has discovered what we all know: that Austin is a great place to live, work and play,” says Will Wynn, Austin’s mayor. “We have a spectacular quality of life, particularly if you’re young, energetic, educated, driven and have a passion for the outdoors and live music. I’m excited about the opportunity to showcase our city to viewers around the world.”