Television production giant Banijay has named Steve Mathews to its scripted division, appointing the ex-HBO Europe alumni to the newly-created role of content partnerships executive. Starting from Feb. 1, Matthews will help coordinate co-productions at Banijay’s European scripted operations, focusing on opportunities across the Nordic territories and Spain.
“Scripted very much remains an area in which we want to grow our business,” noted Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti. “Through organic growth and M&a, we will continue to strengthen our capabilities in this arena and in Steve, we have vast amounts of knowledge, and hands-on experience, which will be invaluable as we continue to expand our portfolio.”
Banijay is the world’s largest international content producer and distributor with over 120 production companies across 22 territories, including Endemol Shine (MasterChef, The Office), Castaway Television Productions (Survivor) and Brit group Kudos (Broadchurch, Spooks).
Matthews joins Banijay from HBO Europe, where he was a VP,...
“Scripted very much remains an area in which we want to grow our business,” noted Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti. “Through organic growth and M&a, we will continue to strengthen our capabilities in this arena and in Steve, we have vast amounts of knowledge, and hands-on experience, which will be invaluable as we continue to expand our portfolio.”
Banijay is the world’s largest international content producer and distributor with over 120 production companies across 22 territories, including Endemol Shine (MasterChef, The Office), Castaway Television Productions (Survivor) and Brit group Kudos (Broadchurch, Spooks).
Matthews joins Banijay from HBO Europe, where he was a VP,...
- 1/12/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: This year’s Mipcom will place co-productions “front and centre” as the market moves with the times, according to Lucy Smith, who runs the annual Rx France event.
The Cannes market is introducing a 1000 sqft Producers Hub for the first time – where producers with projects in the early stages can meet and discuss partnerships – and Smith told Deadline the move is reflective of how the TV industry is changing, pivoting towards co-productions and away from traditional distributor-to-buyer sales.
“If you look at the way sales have developed, co-productions have become more important to everyone,” added Smith. “Co-pros were already organically part of the market but we feel that they have taken on a hugely important part of the TV business and wanted to pivot Mipcom to make sure they are front and centre.”
Markets such as Series Mania already place intense focus on co-production opportunities and Smith said the...
The Cannes market is introducing a 1000 sqft Producers Hub for the first time – where producers with projects in the early stages can meet and discuss partnerships – and Smith told Deadline the move is reflective of how the TV industry is changing, pivoting towards co-productions and away from traditional distributor-to-buyer sales.
“If you look at the way sales have developed, co-productions have become more important to everyone,” added Smith. “Co-pros were already organically part of the market but we feel that they have taken on a hugely important part of the TV business and wanted to pivot Mipcom to make sure they are front and centre.”
Markets such as Series Mania already place intense focus on co-production opportunities and Smith said the...
- 10/7/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Rome’s innovative Mia market dedicated to international TV series, feature films, and documentaries is gearing up for its eighth edition with an increased international industry presence, a new animation section, and lots of European content – most of which in early stages of production – on display.
The upcoming Oct. 11-15 Mia mart (whose acronym stands for the Mercato Internazionale Audiovisivo or International Audiovisual Market) this year is positioned prior to the Mipcom content market and conference that runs Oct. 17-20 in Cannes, since Mipcom has shifted its dates forward.
But the repositioning has not impacted the number of registered attendees which is up more than 12 compared with past Mia editions. More than 900 international industry execs are expected to make the trek, and counting, organizers said at a Rome press conference on Thursday.
Significantly, U.S. streamers will be at Mia in full force. Execs from Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Paramount, Apple,...
The upcoming Oct. 11-15 Mia mart (whose acronym stands for the Mercato Internazionale Audiovisivo or International Audiovisual Market) this year is positioned prior to the Mipcom content market and conference that runs Oct. 17-20 in Cannes, since Mipcom has shifted its dates forward.
But the repositioning has not impacted the number of registered attendees which is up more than 12 compared with past Mia editions. More than 900 international industry execs are expected to make the trek, and counting, organizers said at a Rome press conference on Thursday.
Significantly, U.S. streamers will be at Mia in full force. Execs from Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Paramount, Apple,...
- 10/6/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Italy’s International Audiovisual Market Mia is expecting a return to full force this year ahead of its eighth edition in Rome from October 11 to 15.
Speaking at a preview press conference on Thursday, director Gaia Tridente said the meeting had registered a 12 rise in attendance this year with accreditations still open, although she did not give precise figures.
Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Mia welcomed 2,500 attendees in 2019, while there were 2,000 registered attendees in 2021 when travel was still restricted.
This year marks the inaugural edition for Tridente who was previously head of scripted at Mia.
Based around Rome’s historic Barberini Palace and the nearby newly refurbished Barberini Cinema, the event spans a traditional market, co-production meetings and a conference.
Expected guests include Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti, Netflix Emea TV boss Larry Tanz, Lionsgate TV Group president Sandra Stern and Fremantle COO and continental Europe CEO Andrea Scrosati as well as...
Speaking at a preview press conference on Thursday, director Gaia Tridente said the meeting had registered a 12 rise in attendance this year with accreditations still open, although she did not give precise figures.
Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Mia welcomed 2,500 attendees in 2019, while there were 2,000 registered attendees in 2021 when travel was still restricted.
This year marks the inaugural edition for Tridente who was previously head of scripted at Mia.
Based around Rome’s historic Barberini Palace and the nearby newly refurbished Barberini Cinema, the event spans a traditional market, co-production meetings and a conference.
Expected guests include Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti, Netflix Emea TV boss Larry Tanz, Lionsgate TV Group president Sandra Stern and Fremantle COO and continental Europe CEO Andrea Scrosati as well as...
- 10/6/2022
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Deal is super indie group’s biggest since acquiring Endemol Shine Group in 2020.
Banijay is set to acquire Australian producer and distributor Beyond International.
The deal will add more than 8,000 hours of IP to Banijay’s existing catalogue of over 130,000 hours of content.
In English-language markets, Beyond Productions’ titles include eight-part scripted series Troppo, co-produced with Eq Media, airing on Freevee USA and ABC Australia.
Beyond’s sales arm, Beyond Rights, represents titles including Highway Thru Hell, Heavy Rescue: 401, Massive Engineering Mistakes, Halifax: Retribution, MythBusters and Deadly Women.
The deal is Banijay’s biggest since it acquired Endemol Shine Group...
Banijay is set to acquire Australian producer and distributor Beyond International.
The deal will add more than 8,000 hours of IP to Banijay’s existing catalogue of over 130,000 hours of content.
In English-language markets, Beyond Productions’ titles include eight-part scripted series Troppo, co-produced with Eq Media, airing on Freevee USA and ABC Australia.
Beyond’s sales arm, Beyond Rights, represents titles including Highway Thru Hell, Heavy Rescue: 401, Massive Engineering Mistakes, Halifax: Retribution, MythBusters and Deadly Women.
The deal is Banijay’s biggest since it acquired Endemol Shine Group...
- 10/6/2022
- by Rebecca Leffler
- ScreenDaily
Banijay announced its plans to formally acquire scripted and non-scripted multi-territory content group Beyond International on Wednesday.
Under the terms of the agreement, Banijay would assume full control of the Beyond International group of companies and departments — as well as its more than 8,000 hours of IP — with all elements of the business boarding the Banijay production and distribution footprint. Beyond’s titles includes “Highway Thru Hell,” “Heavy Rescue: 401,” “Massive Engineering Mistakes,” “Halifax: Retribution,” “MythBusters” and “Deadly Women.”
The deal remains subject to certain conditions, including Beyond shareholders’ approval, court approval and other customary closing conditions. It is hoped the deal will close at the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023. Once the deal is completed, Beyond International will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Banijay and its Australian Stock Exchange-listed shares will cease to be publicly traded.
Beyond International Managing Director and CEO, Mikael Borglund, will remain in his role through the acquisition.
Under the terms of the agreement, Banijay would assume full control of the Beyond International group of companies and departments — as well as its more than 8,000 hours of IP — with all elements of the business boarding the Banijay production and distribution footprint. Beyond’s titles includes “Highway Thru Hell,” “Heavy Rescue: 401,” “Massive Engineering Mistakes,” “Halifax: Retribution,” “MythBusters” and “Deadly Women.”
The deal remains subject to certain conditions, including Beyond shareholders’ approval, court approval and other customary closing conditions. It is hoped the deal will close at the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023. Once the deal is completed, Beyond International will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Banijay and its Australian Stock Exchange-listed shares will cease to be publicly traded.
Beyond International Managing Director and CEO, Mikael Borglund, will remain in his role through the acquisition.
- 10/5/2022
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Production giant Banijay has struck a deal to acquire scripted and non-scripted producer/distributor Beyond International (MythBusters), the company said on Wednesday.
Beyond has been listed on the Australian Securities Exchange since 1987, but will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Banijay and its shares will cease to be publicly traded. Headquartered in Dublin, it operates internationally.
Banijay has grown through acquisitions over the years, including its takeover of Zodiak Media in 2016 and Endemol Shine Group in 2020. Banijay — owned by Fl Entertainment, which in July became listed on the Euronext Amsterdam stock exchange — said the deal would complement its existing content catalog of more than 130,000 hours of content.
Beyond Productions listed its recently announced titles as “Back in the Groove, a new dating series for Hulu, produced in partnership with Walt Disney Television Alternative; multi-territory franchise, Love It or List It Australia; the eight-part...
Production giant Banijay has struck a deal to acquire scripted and non-scripted producer/distributor Beyond International (MythBusters), the company said on Wednesday.
Beyond has been listed on the Australian Securities Exchange since 1987, but will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Banijay and its shares will cease to be publicly traded. Headquartered in Dublin, it operates internationally.
Banijay has grown through acquisitions over the years, including its takeover of Zodiak Media in 2016 and Endemol Shine Group in 2020. Banijay — owned by Fl Entertainment, which in July became listed on the Euronext Amsterdam stock exchange — said the deal would complement its existing content catalog of more than 130,000 hours of content.
Beyond Productions listed its recently announced titles as “Back in the Groove, a new dating series for Hulu, produced in partnership with Walt Disney Television Alternative; multi-territory franchise, Love It or List It Australia; the eight-part...
- 10/5/2022
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Banijay is set to acquire Australia’s Beyond International in a deal worth more than 30M.
The Big Brother and MasterChef firm has entered into what’s been described as a Scheme Implementation Deed to buy Beyond, which has been listed on the Australian Securities Exchange since 1987.
According to a filing to the Asx, shareholders will get A0.77 a share, a representing a 57 premium. This values the deal at an estimated A47M (30.7M).
Once the deal closes, Dublin-headquartered Beyond will cease being publicly traded and become a wholly owned subsidiary of Banijay. Financial details were not disclosed.
For the international TV community, the deal will likely be the talk of Mipcom later this month and represents France-based Banijay’s biggest M&a move since it closed its deal to acquire Endemol Shine Group in 2020. Prior to that, it had merged with Zodiak Media in 2016.
Banijay itself is now part of Fl Entertainment,...
The Big Brother and MasterChef firm has entered into what’s been described as a Scheme Implementation Deed to buy Beyond, which has been listed on the Australian Securities Exchange since 1987.
According to a filing to the Asx, shareholders will get A0.77 a share, a representing a 57 premium. This values the deal at an estimated A47M (30.7M).
Once the deal closes, Dublin-headquartered Beyond will cease being publicly traded and become a wholly owned subsidiary of Banijay. Financial details were not disclosed.
For the international TV community, the deal will likely be the talk of Mipcom later this month and represents France-based Banijay’s biggest M&a move since it closed its deal to acquire Endemol Shine Group in 2020. Prior to that, it had merged with Zodiak Media in 2016.
Banijay itself is now part of Fl Entertainment,...
- 10/5/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Event director Lucy Smith tells Screen about the return of ‘supersized’ programme market.
After a cancelled 2020 event and toned down 2021 edition, the Mipcom TV sales and co-production market is poised for a return to pre-pandemic attendance levels for its 38th edition, which runs October 17-20.
Delegates from 96 countries have so far confirmed their participation and more than 10,000 delegates are expected to attend – more than double the numbers of the 2021 edition.
“Everyone is thrilled to get back to a real supersized Mipcom in Cannes,” the event’s director Lucy Smith told Screen at a press conference held by organisers Rx France in Paris today.
After a cancelled 2020 event and toned down 2021 edition, the Mipcom TV sales and co-production market is poised for a return to pre-pandemic attendance levels for its 38th edition, which runs October 17-20.
Delegates from 96 countries have so far confirmed their participation and more than 10,000 delegates are expected to attend – more than double the numbers of the 2021 edition.
“Everyone is thrilled to get back to a real supersized Mipcom in Cannes,” the event’s director Lucy Smith told Screen at a press conference held by organisers Rx France in Paris today.
- 9/20/2022
- by Rebecca Leffler
- ScreenDaily
Banijay UK has swiftly replaced Executive Chair Peter Salmon with BBC Factual director Patrick Holland.
Holland will join at the start of Q2 next year, following Salmon’s departure after six years with the firm and one as Executive Chair.
Holland has been with the BBC for more than a decade, most recently operating as Director of Factual, Arts and Classical Music in the new commissioning restructure, having overseen BBC2 for several years before that.
He oversaw an impressive transformation of BBC2 that saw it move into popular factual-entertainment such as Race Across The World and its celebrity counterpart, along with respected documentaries and heavy-hitting drama including Richard Gere’s MotherFatherSon.
He moved to become Director of Factual last year following a restructure that effectively did away with channel controllers. Since then, he has set about ordering a range of. powerful docs such as 9/11 Inside The President’s War Room...
Holland will join at the start of Q2 next year, following Salmon’s departure after six years with the firm and one as Executive Chair.
Holland has been with the BBC for more than a decade, most recently operating as Director of Factual, Arts and Classical Music in the new commissioning restructure, having overseen BBC2 for several years before that.
He oversaw an impressive transformation of BBC2 that saw it move into popular factual-entertainment such as Race Across The World and its celebrity counterpart, along with respected documentaries and heavy-hitting drama including Richard Gere’s MotherFatherSon.
He moved to become Director of Factual last year following a restructure that effectively did away with channel controllers. Since then, he has set about ordering a range of. powerful docs such as 9/11 Inside The President’s War Room...
- 12/14/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Pater Salmon, executive chair Banijay U.K., will step down from his role at Easter 2022.
The Banijay group took over Endemol Shine in a $2.2 billion deal, which was finalized in 2020. Salmon’s departure comes as the U.K. integration process has been completed.
Patrick Holland, who most recently served as director, factual, arts and classical music at the BBC, will replace Salmon. Previously, he was channel controller of BBC Two, where he oversaw “Once Upon a Time in Iraq” and the rejuvenated “Top Gear.” During his tenure BBC Two won the channel of the year awards in 2020 and 2021 at the Edinburgh TV Awards and Broadcast Awards.
Salmon served six years with Endemol Shine where he began as global chief creative officer before taking on the U.K. chair position, where he worked in tandem with CEO Lucinda Hicks to consolidate Banijay U.K.
Banijay U.K. now comprises 20 companies spanning scripted and unscripted,...
The Banijay group took over Endemol Shine in a $2.2 billion deal, which was finalized in 2020. Salmon’s departure comes as the U.K. integration process has been completed.
Patrick Holland, who most recently served as director, factual, arts and classical music at the BBC, will replace Salmon. Previously, he was channel controller of BBC Two, where he oversaw “Once Upon a Time in Iraq” and the rejuvenated “Top Gear.” During his tenure BBC Two won the channel of the year awards in 2020 and 2021 at the Edinburgh TV Awards and Broadcast Awards.
Salmon served six years with Endemol Shine where he began as global chief creative officer before taking on the U.K. chair position, where he worked in tandem with CEO Lucinda Hicks to consolidate Banijay U.K.
Banijay U.K. now comprises 20 companies spanning scripted and unscripted,...
- 12/14/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Banijay UK Executive Chair Peter Salmon is to step down next year as the global producer/distributor completes its integration with Endemol Shine in the UK.
Salmon had taken up the Banijay UK reins alongside CEO Lucinda Hicks when the acquisition completed last year, having served as Global Chief Creative Officer for five years prior. He will depart over Easter and a replacement will be sought.
“Peter has been a great partner with Lucinda leading the integration in the UK,” said Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti. “While the business continues to grow and evolve from here-on-in, the initial integration is complete, and we understand now is an opportune time for him to move on to pastures new.”
Salmon described a “logical time to move on” and said it had been “tremendous fun, first of all spearheading the creative charge globally for the group, then helping lead such a powerhouse of UK...
Salmon had taken up the Banijay UK reins alongside CEO Lucinda Hicks when the acquisition completed last year, having served as Global Chief Creative Officer for five years prior. He will depart over Easter and a replacement will be sought.
“Peter has been a great partner with Lucinda leading the integration in the UK,” said Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti. “While the business continues to grow and evolve from here-on-in, the initial integration is complete, and we understand now is an opportune time for him to move on to pastures new.”
Salmon described a “logical time to move on” and said it had been “tremendous fun, first of all spearheading the creative charge globally for the group, then helping lead such a powerhouse of UK...
- 12/14/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
When Banijay closed its $2.2 billion takeover of Endemol Shine earlier this summer, it became the largest independent production player outside the U.S. The formation of the super-group, during a pandemic no less, raised questions about how it might leverage a monster 88,000-hour catalogue, and what its plans were for super-brands like Endemol Shine drama “Black Mirror” and Banijay’s iconic “Survivor” format.
In her first interview since assuming leadership of Banijay’s distribution arm, Banijay Rights, industry veteran Cathy Payne tells Variety that the combined business hopes to be “the world’s best producer and distributor of content.” And while there’s certainly enough scale in the library to support its own VOD offering, Ott plans aren’t yet in the cards.
“At the moment, we’re focusing on production and distribution,” says Payne, who acknowledges that a clear brand proposition for consumers is needed for major SVOD platforms...
In her first interview since assuming leadership of Banijay’s distribution arm, Banijay Rights, industry veteran Cathy Payne tells Variety that the combined business hopes to be “the world’s best producer and distributor of content.” And while there’s certainly enough scale in the library to support its own VOD offering, Ott plans aren’t yet in the cards.
“At the moment, we’re focusing on production and distribution,” says Payne, who acknowledges that a clear brand proposition for consumers is needed for major SVOD platforms...
- 9/25/2020
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Endemol Shine Australia’s co-CEOs Mark and Carl Fennessy are leaving the company after more than 10 years following Banijay’s takeover.
The leading lights in Australian TV helped Elisabeth Murdoch establish Shine Australia in 2009 and oversaw its merger with Endemol in 2014. The former Fremantle executives have made hit shows including MasterChef and Married At First Sight.
Endemol Shine Australia’s chief content officer Peter Newman will step up to become CEO after an eight-year spell at the company. The British executive has been chief content officer since 2018.
In a statement, the Fennessy brothers said they would be taking a “much-needed break” before embarking on their “next adventure,” suggesting that they are not leaving the industry just yet.
Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti added: “The Fennessy brothers have long-served as commendable businessmen at the forefront of the country’s creative industry and we wish them all the best with where their artistic journey takes them next.
The leading lights in Australian TV helped Elisabeth Murdoch establish Shine Australia in 2009 and oversaw its merger with Endemol in 2014. The former Fremantle executives have made hit shows including MasterChef and Married At First Sight.
Endemol Shine Australia’s chief content officer Peter Newman will step up to become CEO after an eight-year spell at the company. The British executive has been chief content officer since 2018.
In a statement, the Fennessy brothers said they would be taking a “much-needed break” before embarking on their “next adventure,” suggesting that they are not leaving the industry just yet.
Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti added: “The Fennessy brothers have long-served as commendable businessmen at the forefront of the country’s creative industry and we wish them all the best with where their artistic journey takes them next.
- 9/22/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Mark and Carl Fennessy.
Endemol Shine Australia co-CEOs Mark and Carl Fennessy are departing after leading the company for 10 years, with chief content officer Peter Newman taking over as CEO.
This follows the $US2.2 billion global takeover of Endemol Shine Group by the European production and distribution giant Banijay Group.
Meanwhile, Rory Callaghan continues as CEO of Banijay-owned Screentime, which is yet to be integrated with Endemol Shine. Its slate includes Sas: Who Dares Wins, Rbt and Anh’s Brush with Fame.
Business partners for 26 years after founding indie producer Crackerjack, the Fennessys say they are looking forward to taking a long break. No date has yet been revealed for the handover to Newman, who joined Shine in 2012 as creative director and was upped to chief content officer in 2018.
Newman has overseen one of the world’s biggest unscripted production slates including MasterChef Australia, Big Brother, Gogglebox Australia, Australian Survivor,...
Endemol Shine Australia co-CEOs Mark and Carl Fennessy are departing after leading the company for 10 years, with chief content officer Peter Newman taking over as CEO.
This follows the $US2.2 billion global takeover of Endemol Shine Group by the European production and distribution giant Banijay Group.
Meanwhile, Rory Callaghan continues as CEO of Banijay-owned Screentime, which is yet to be integrated with Endemol Shine. Its slate includes Sas: Who Dares Wins, Rbt and Anh’s Brush with Fame.
Business partners for 26 years after founding indie producer Crackerjack, the Fennessys say they are looking forward to taking a long break. No date has yet been revealed for the handover to Newman, who joined Shine in 2012 as creative director and was upped to chief content officer in 2018.
Newman has overseen one of the world’s biggest unscripted production slates including MasterChef Australia, Big Brother, Gogglebox Australia, Australian Survivor,...
- 9/22/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Bear Grylls has teamed with European production group Banijay to launch a new production company.
Grylls, star of Netflix’s You Vs Wild and Running Wild With Bear Grylls, which aired on NBC before moving to Nat Geo, is launching The Natural Studios with his Bear Grylls Venture partner Delbert Shoopman and Banijay, which owns production companies including Keeping Up With The Kardashians producer Bunim/Murray Productions.
The company will focus on adventure TV series and feature films across all platforms.
Grylls and Shoopman are co-CEOs of the company, which ias backed and funded by Banijay, which will distribute its titles globally.
It is the latest move into adventure for Banijay, which owns the Survivor format as well as titles including Fort Boyard, The Crystal Maze and Sas: Who Dares.
The Natural Studios’ current slate of shows includes Hostile Planet (Nat Geo), Eco-Challenge (Amazon), Running Wild with Bear Grylls (Nat...
Grylls, star of Netflix’s You Vs Wild and Running Wild With Bear Grylls, which aired on NBC before moving to Nat Geo, is launching The Natural Studios with his Bear Grylls Venture partner Delbert Shoopman and Banijay, which owns production companies including Keeping Up With The Kardashians producer Bunim/Murray Productions.
The company will focus on adventure TV series and feature films across all platforms.
Grylls and Shoopman are co-CEOs of the company, which ias backed and funded by Banijay, which will distribute its titles globally.
It is the latest move into adventure for Banijay, which owns the Survivor format as well as titles including Fort Boyard, The Crystal Maze and Sas: Who Dares.
The Natural Studios’ current slate of shows includes Hostile Planet (Nat Geo), Eco-Challenge (Amazon), Running Wild with Bear Grylls (Nat...
- 10/14/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Bear Grylls, the face of survival and outdoor adventure television, and his longtime producing partner, Delbert Shoopman, have teamed with leading global production and distribution powerhouse Banijay Group to launch production company The Natural Studios, which will produce both non-scripted and scripted adventure content.
The company, with Grylls and Shoopman as co-CEOs, is funded by Banijay, which serves as its production and distribution partner. Grylls and Shoopman will maintain full strategic control, Banijay said. The outfit will “develop original IP with mass global appeal and nurture the next generation of adrenaline-fueled TV stars worldwide,” according to a statement.
Grylls said: “At its heart this is about building the ultimate home of adventure programming worldwide. The Natural Studios will be providing a home for the best adventure talent to help them create shows with us that inspire and move people to go for it in their lives and to never give up.
The company, with Grylls and Shoopman as co-CEOs, is funded by Banijay, which serves as its production and distribution partner. Grylls and Shoopman will maintain full strategic control, Banijay said. The outfit will “develop original IP with mass global appeal and nurture the next generation of adrenaline-fueled TV stars worldwide,” according to a statement.
Grylls said: “At its heart this is about building the ultimate home of adventure programming worldwide. The Natural Studios will be providing a home for the best adventure talent to help them create shows with us that inspire and move people to go for it in their lives and to never give up.
- 10/14/2019
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Mip TV is staying close to home this year after organizers revealed that France is to be the country of honor for the Cannes event.
The event, which runs 8-11 April 2019, will dedicate a series of conferences and promotional events to the French TV industry. This comes after France’s export association TV France International reported that sales were up over the last twelve months to €325M, it second best performance in 20 years.
This growth has been driven by animation and documentary sales as well as drama series, such as The Bureau and Midnight Sun, which increased international sales by 28% since 2016.
“It could not be better timing to celebrate France’s creativity and savoir-faire on the international content scene. Over the years, French production has taken a growing share of the international market in every genre, from animation to documentary, formats and, of course, drama series. French creators and producers...
The event, which runs 8-11 April 2019, will dedicate a series of conferences and promotional events to the French TV industry. This comes after France’s export association TV France International reported that sales were up over the last twelve months to €325M, it second best performance in 20 years.
This growth has been driven by animation and documentary sales as well as drama series, such as The Bureau and Midnight Sun, which increased international sales by 28% since 2016.
“It could not be better timing to celebrate France’s creativity and savoir-faire on the international content scene. Over the years, French production has taken a growing share of the international market in every genre, from animation to documentary, formats and, of course, drama series. French creators and producers...
- 1/17/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Yellow Bird Sweden, the Banijay-owned Scandinavian production company behind “Headhunters” and “Occupied,” is joining forces with its sister company Bunim/Murray Productions to launch Yellow Bird U.S.
A close joined venture between the two Banijay-owned banners, Yellow Bird U.S. will be headed by Marianne Gray, a producer at Yellow Bird Sweden who played a key role in some of the company’s biggest hits, “Headhunters” and “Occupied.” Yellow Bird launched in the U.K. earlier this year.
“Yellow Bird U.S. is the result of two of the group’s leading brands coming together in one of the world’s biggest markets,” said Marco Bassetti, CEO of Banijay Group. “The original Swedish label has long built a strong reputation for high-quality, award-winning drama, and we look forward to seeing this success replicated via the partnership with fellow market-leader, Bunim/Murray Productions.”
Gray is currently spearheading the production on an upcoming series shooting in Italy.
A close joined venture between the two Banijay-owned banners, Yellow Bird U.S. will be headed by Marianne Gray, a producer at Yellow Bird Sweden who played a key role in some of the company’s biggest hits, “Headhunters” and “Occupied.” Yellow Bird launched in the U.K. earlier this year.
“Yellow Bird U.S. is the result of two of the group’s leading brands coming together in one of the world’s biggest markets,” said Marco Bassetti, CEO of Banijay Group. “The original Swedish label has long built a strong reputation for high-quality, award-winning drama, and we look forward to seeing this success replicated via the partnership with fellow market-leader, Bunim/Murray Productions.”
Gray is currently spearheading the production on an upcoming series shooting in Italy.
- 10/11/2018
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
European superindie Banijay Group is making its first original move into scripted drama in the U.S. with a joint venture between two of its biggest production companies.
Keeping Up With The Kardashians indie Bunim/Murray Productions has teamed with Wallander producer Yellow Bird Sweden to launch Yellow Bird U.S. with Headhunters producer Marianne Gray heading up the firm. It follows the launch of scripted label Yellow Bird UK earlier this year.
Based in Bunim/Murray’s La offices, Gray will work closely with its Chairman and CEO, Gil Goldschein to build the new entity. It has already hired former TNT executive Jonathan Marcus as Director of Development and has set up its first few development projects.
Yellow Bird U.S. has optioned three books: Åsa Schwartz’s The 7 Keys, Lisa Jewell’s I Found You and Mats Strandberg’s The End. It will develop and produce these in English for U.
Keeping Up With The Kardashians indie Bunim/Murray Productions has teamed with Wallander producer Yellow Bird Sweden to launch Yellow Bird U.S. with Headhunters producer Marianne Gray heading up the firm. It follows the launch of scripted label Yellow Bird UK earlier this year.
Based in Bunim/Murray’s La offices, Gray will work closely with its Chairman and CEO, Gil Goldschein to build the new entity. It has already hired former TNT executive Jonathan Marcus as Director of Development and has set up its first few development projects.
Yellow Bird U.S. has optioned three books: Åsa Schwartz’s The 7 Keys, Lisa Jewell’s I Found You and Mats Strandberg’s The End. It will develop and produce these in English for U.
- 10/10/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Banijay Group has taken control of Terence Films, the French drama outfit behind TF1 and Amazon series “Les Innocents,” and “Fortunes” for Arte and France 2, among others.
Banijay is currently in advanced talks to acquire Endemol Shine Group and considered a frontrunner for the production and distribution giant. Meanwhile, it is continuing to expand the roster of production companies in the group with the deal for a majority stake in Terence Films.
Banijay’s distribution arm sells the English-language France-set period drama “Versailles” and Nordic drama “Occupied.” It recently launched Banijay Studios Italy to focus on drama. The latest M&A deal ups its profile in French drama production.
Terence Films was founded in 2005 by Stephane Meunier and Bertrand Cohen (left). Meunier started out in journalism and documentaries before moving into scripted over a decade ago. Cohen started in the marketing department of TF1, France’s largest commercial broadcaster, and went...
Banijay is currently in advanced talks to acquire Endemol Shine Group and considered a frontrunner for the production and distribution giant. Meanwhile, it is continuing to expand the roster of production companies in the group with the deal for a majority stake in Terence Films.
Banijay’s distribution arm sells the English-language France-set period drama “Versailles” and Nordic drama “Occupied.” It recently launched Banijay Studios Italy to focus on drama. The latest M&A deal ups its profile in French drama production.
Terence Films was founded in 2005 by Stephane Meunier and Bertrand Cohen (left). Meunier started out in journalism and documentaries before moving into scripted over a decade ago. Cohen started in the marketing department of TF1, France’s largest commercial broadcaster, and went...
- 10/8/2018
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
The auction for production and distribution giant Endemol Shine is heating up, with one report saying the Big Brother outfit could sell for north of $3B.
ITV has withdrawn from the race, leaving French TV group Banijay and Endeavor among the final players in the market for one of Europe’s biggest content creators, according to the Ft. MasterChef, Black Mirror and The Fall outfit Endemol is co-owned by 21st Century Fox and private-equity fund Apollo Global Management.
Bids have been received and are being evaluated, according to one source with familiar with the bidding process.
Sony, FremantleMedia and Liberty Global reportedly were among interested parties since it went on the block earlier this year. Endeavor had been pursuing the asset, but not aggressively, according to a person with knowledge of the bidding process.
Survivor, Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Versailles firm Banijay is now reported to be in pole position to buy Endemol.
ITV has withdrawn from the race, leaving French TV group Banijay and Endeavor among the final players in the market for one of Europe’s biggest content creators, according to the Ft. MasterChef, Black Mirror and The Fall outfit Endemol is co-owned by 21st Century Fox and private-equity fund Apollo Global Management.
Bids have been received and are being evaluated, according to one source with familiar with the bidding process.
Sony, FremantleMedia and Liberty Global reportedly were among interested parties since it went on the block earlier this year. Endeavor had been pursuing the asset, but not aggressively, according to a person with knowledge of the bidding process.
Survivor, Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Versailles firm Banijay is now reported to be in pole position to buy Endemol.
- 10/4/2018
- by Andreas Wiseman and Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
French TV group Banijay is in advanced talks to acquire production and distribution giant Endemol Shine, Variety has confirmed.
The deep-pocketed Banijay Group, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, is controlled by Stéphane Courbit’s Lov Group and De Agostini Group’s DEA Communications. French media giant Vivendi also holds a significant stake.
Endemol Shine, the Netherlands-based producer of “Big Brother,” “MasterChef” and “Black Mirror,” is jointly owned by 21st Century Fox and private equity fund Apollo Global Management. It was put on the block earlier this year.
Although a number of companies are believed to have expressed an initial interest in acquiring Endemol, the field has narrowed considerably in recent weeks. On Wednesday, ITV, the U.K.’s biggest commercial broadcaster, ruled out a bid, joining Fremantle in publicly disassociating itself from the Endemol sale. Sony has bowed out, and Endeavor, which took a look at Endemol, is...
The deep-pocketed Banijay Group, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, is controlled by Stéphane Courbit’s Lov Group and De Agostini Group’s DEA Communications. French media giant Vivendi also holds a significant stake.
Endemol Shine, the Netherlands-based producer of “Big Brother,” “MasterChef” and “Black Mirror,” is jointly owned by 21st Century Fox and private equity fund Apollo Global Management. It was put on the block earlier this year.
Although a number of companies are believed to have expressed an initial interest in acquiring Endemol, the field has narrowed considerably in recent weeks. On Wednesday, ITV, the U.K.’s biggest commercial broadcaster, ruled out a bid, joining Fremantle in publicly disassociating itself from the Endemol sale. Sony has bowed out, and Endeavor, which took a look at Endemol, is...
- 10/4/2018
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.