Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces international expansion for its premium adventure reality format, Shaolin Heroes. Originally created by Danish label Metronome, there are now two additional versions coming down the track from Banijay Benelux – Banijay Belgium has struck a deal with broadcaster VTM; and in the Netherlands, SimpelZodiak has a greenlight from RTL.
Since its debut on TV2 Denmark last year, Shaolin Heroes has captivated viewers with a 31% share surpassing the channel’s average primetime slot, leading to a second season renewal launching this month. The series sees celebrities embark on a transformational journey to master the ancient martial art of the Shaolin Warrior Monks. Under the guidance of two Shaolin Masters, contestants face intense trials testing their physical and mental boundaries, all while uncovering facets of themselves they never knew existed.
Isabelle Dams, Managing Director, Banijay Belgium says: “Metronome’s Shaolin Heroes is an adventure reality format unlike any other, taking the audience on an immersive and transformational journey. Bringing this unique format to Belgium with VTM is an exciting step, and we know viewers will be enticed by its intensity.”
Justine Huffmeijer, Managing Director, SimpelZodiak comments: “Shaolin Heroes is a bold and unique format which respectfully highlights the Shaolin tradition. Enjoying a solid performance in Denmark, we are eager to launch the Dutch version and watch these celebrities embark on this challenging, yet rewarding experience.”
Tina Christensen, Managing Director, Metronome adds: “This premium adventure reality series is a testament to the creativity and ambition of the Metronome team, blending stunning scenery and human endurance. Shaolin Heroes has all the key elements to captivate global audiences and it’s exciting to see this original format expanding its international footprint, while returning here in Denmark for another thrilling season.”
Banijay Belgium is a leading producer of high-quality, cross-genre television, with a slate that includes Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Hunted, Fear Factor, and more recently, it adapted hit travelling format Starstruck.
Dutch label SimpelZodiak is a specialist in reality, adventure, documentaries and factual entertainment, with the aim of telling stories with impact, which leave viewers inspired and entertained. Amongst its slate is Good Luck Guys, Hunted, Survivor, SAS: Who Dares Wins, Temptation Island and Banijay UK’s hit fact-ent format Banged Up.
Danish production company Metronome is behind Banijay Entertainment’s latest comedy format Roast On The Coast for Amazon Prime Video. It also produces a range of long-running non-scripted series including MasterChef, Hunted, Taskmaster, Alone Together and The Block.