Banijay Rights sells travelogue, Ray Winstone’s Sicily, to media network for UK broadcast on free-to-air channel, BLAZE®.

Banijay Rights, the leading distribution arm of Banijay, and A+E Networks® UK, today announces the 6×60’ travelogue series, Ray Winstone’s Sicily, will premiere this Autumn in the UK on free-to-air channel BLAZE®, Freeview channel 63.

In his first foray into factual programming, the internationally renowned and multi award-winning British actor, Ray Winstone, sets out on a journey to discover more about the island he now calls his second home.

From its culture and way-of-life to its ancient and classical history, Sicily and the Sicilians have had a profound impact on Winstone and in this intimate, upbeat series, he sets out to find out why. He travels the island with restauranteur Bruno Zoccola, and TV broadcaster Matt Lorenzo, on a gastronomic and cultural tour of Sicily’s famous kitchens, historical sites, churches, temples and vineyards, as well as looking at the Mafia’s impact on the country and visiting the house from The Godfather films. The trio film from the summit of the active volcano, Mount Etna, in addition to visiting the Aeolian island of Lipari and the historic yet frantic city of Palermo.

Ray Winstone said about the series: “I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world with my work, butSicily has really got under my skin and I wanted to find out why – it’s something to do with the people you meet and finding a place that hasn’t been spoiled. I hope this helps people see Sicily and say – I want to go there.”

The deal was brokered by Chris Stewart, Commercial Director, Banijay Rights, and Dan Korn, VP of Programming at A+E Networks UK, who ordered the series for free-to-air channel BLAZE in the UK.

Dan Korn said: “…who better to enjoy the sites, scenes and history of one of the world’s most famous and celebrated islands than with the Sexy Beast himself, Mr Ray Winstone. We’re delighted towelcome Ray to Blaze and to give British viewers the chance to enjoy his wonderfully entertaining tour of Sicily.”

Ray Winstone’s Sicily is produced by SWR Media in association with Dash Pictures. The series is executive produced by Daniel Sharp (Disasters Engineered, Top Gear America). International distribution is handled by Banijay Rights.

Chris Stewart comments: “We’re excited to be partnering with A+E Networks UK to give the BLAZE audience an opportunity to see Ray shed his infamous hard-man image in this unique and highly- entertaining series, as he lifts the lid on his much-loved Sicily in his own inimitable style. What better way to emerge from lockdown than with an onscreen holiday with Ray Winstone?!”