Banijay is the world's largest independent content creation Group for television and multimedia platforms. Banijay is present in 16 territories.
Banijay is the world's largest independent content creation Group for television and multimedia platforms. Banijay is present in 16 territories.

Tag Archive: Banijay UK

  1. Banijay Rights Sends Bergerac to Japan

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    Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment, today announces WOWOW, Japan’s leading premium pay TV broadcaster, has acquired six-part drama series Bergerac.

    Produced by BlackLight TV, part of Banijay UK, Jersey-based Westward Studios and supported by Visit Jersey for U and U&DRAMA in the UK, the 6 x 60’ series sees Damien Molony (The Split, Brassic, Crashing) star in the iconic role of Jim Bergerac.

    In a deal negotiated by Rashmi Bajpai, EVP Sales Asia, Banijay Rights, WOWOW will launch the series on WOWOW Prime channel and WOWOW On Demand in August 2025. The agreement follows previously announced international sales to broadcasters including NPO in Netherlands, VRT in Belgium, SVT in Sweden, YLE in Finland, NRK in Norway, DR in Denmark, BBC First in Poland, TVNZ in New Zealand and ABC in Australia. Renewed last week for a second season, Bergerac premiered on U and U&DRAMA on 27th February in the UK and is U&DRAMA’s second-highest rated show ever.

    Rashmi Bajpai said: “With its superb cast and engrossing storytelling, this enthralling new version of Bergerac is clearly proving to be a hit with broadcasters across the world. WOWOW is the perfect home in Japan for this iconic series and we look forward to its success with a whole new viewership.”

    Rie Izumi, International Acquisition, WOWOW, said: “It’s an honour to present this wonderful production to our Japanese audience. We are sure the audience will be captivated by this fascinating story and cast, and confident that Jim Bergerac will become one of the people’s favourite detectives in Japan.”

    Ben Bickerton and Phil Trethowan, Joint Managing Directors, BlackLight TV, said: “We’re delighted that with the help of our partners at Banijay Rights, Bergerac is finding a new audience around the globe.  We’re confident in the universal appeal of Bergerac and can’t wait for more people to see it.” 

    Based on the original series created by Robert Banks Stewart, which starred John Nettles and ran for nine series on the BBC between 1981 and 1991, this modern re-imagining honours the iconic detective drama, but with a contemporary twist. Unlike the original hit from the 80s, the new series sees one character-led murder mystery run across all six episodes, in place of a new storyline each episode.

    Bergerac is written by Toby Whithouse (The Red King, Being Human), alongside Brian Fillis (Trust, Sirens), Catherine Tregenna (The One That Got Away, Three Pines) and Polly Buckle (Love Rat, A Discovery of Witches). The drama also features Zoë Wanamaker (My Family, Shadow and Bone, Black Ops) as Charlie Hungerford, Philip Glenister (Steeltown Murders, Life on Mars) as Arthur Wakefield and introduces Chloé Sweet Love a Jim’s daughter, Kim.

  2. Re-imagined series of Bergerac set to return to U and U&DRAMA in 2026

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    UKTV today announces that the re-imagined series of Bergerac will return for a second instalment, following the overwhelming success of the recent launch. The critically acclaimed drama, starring Damien Molony, will return to the free streaming service U, and U&DRAMA in 2026. The six-part U&Original series is produced by BlackLight TV, part of Banijay UK, in collaboration with Jersey-based Westward Studios and with support from Visit Jersey.

    The first series of Bergerac, which launched on 27th February on U and U&DRAMA, has become the second highest rating programme on U&DRAMA ever, with record numbers of 1.8million consolidated viewers tuning in. The launch contributed to a record-breaking performance on U, helping to achieve the best week ever for the platform. This follows the success of The Marlow Murder Club as the top U&Original drama to launch on the free streaming service in 2025.

    Damien Molony said: “I’m so excited to be returning for a second series and to be heading back to the beautiful island of Jersey. Bringing this iconic role back has been an incredible experience. My predecessor had solved six crimes in the time it’s taken for me to solve one, so I have a bit of catching up to do. I can’t wait to explore the character of Jim Bergerac further and see what case we crack next.”

    Zoë Wanamaker will return as Charlie Hungerford and Robert Gilbert as Barney Crozier. Further cast will be confirmed in the coming months.

    Bergerac is based on the original series created by Robert Banks Stewart, starring John Nettles and running for nine series on the BBC between 1981 and 1991, which is available on U. The modern re-imagining honours the iconic detective drama, but with a contemporary twist. Unlike the original hit from the 80s, the new series sees one character-led murder mystery run across all six episodes, in place of a new storyline each episode.

    The second series will see Jim Bergerac (Molony) starting to put his life back together, while his mother-in-law Charlie Hungerford (Wanamaker) has a new man in her life. Jim’s even tentatively dating, with his daughter’s encouragement, although it’s a big step for him. But then he meets Nicola, a visitor to Jersey, and they connect. Could this be the start of something for Jim?

    However, before the relationship even has time to blossom, Jim is pulled back into his next big case. When the groom at a wedding reception on the island is found murdered in his hotel room, the wedding party comes under intense suspicion and scrutiny. Jim will have to decipher the victim’s cryptic last words from his speech if he is ever going to bring the killer to justice. And when Jim starts to unravel old secrets, more skeletons come to light, making this his most intricate case yet.

    The second series will be written by Toby Whithouse, alongside Ashley Sanders, Emilie Robson and Faebian Averies.

    Helen Perry, head of drama, commissioning said, “I am so delighted we’re retuning to Jersey for a second series of Bergerac. Toby Whithouse and Blacklight TV have done a remarkable job, taking a much-loved classic and re-inventing it for today’s audience. Damien is mesmerising as Jim, and is matched by Zoë and Robert brilliantly. Viewers loved the first series, so we’re thrilled to be taking them back to the beautiful island of Jersey for another thrilling investigation that’s even more twisty than the first.”

    BlackLight TV commented: “Bringing this iconic show back to life with Toby Whithouse has been a true honour.  We have been thrilled with the response to series one and that we are able to continue the journey with our partners at UKTV, Visit Jersey, Banijay Rights and Westward Studios. We can’t wait for fans to enjoy Jim Bergerac’s thrilling new case, full of dark secrets, huge twists and unforgettable new characters that we know will keep the audience gripped to the end.”

    Tricia Warwick, chief executive of Visit Jersey, commented: “We are delighted that Bergerac will be returning to Jersey to film the second series this summer. The first series has significantly raised Jersey’s profile as a must-visit destination, and we are excited to see even more of our island’s stunning landscapes and unique locations featured in series two. The iconic connection between Bergerac and Jersey has long been cherished, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with UKTV, Banijay UK, and BlackLight TV to showcase the unique charm of both Jersey and Bergerac to audiences around the world.”

    Bergerac has been commissioned by Helen Perry, head of drama, commissioning, and ordered by Paula Fitzgerald, head of digital curation for U.  Executive producers for BlackLight TV are Ben Bickerton, Philip Trethowan and Toby Whithouse. Brian Constantine is executive producer for Westward Studios. Helen Perry will be executive producer for UKTV. Banijay Rights will handle international distribution for the series.

    Bergerac is available to stream for free on U.

  3. Location Location Location celebrates 25 years on Channel 4

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    • Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer reflect on 25 years of helping the nation find places they can call home.
    • Channel 4 commissions dedicated night of celebratory programming with two new specials on Wednesday 14 May.

    Pioneering property programme Location Location Locationcelebrates a quarter of a century on Channel 4 this spring. To mark the series’ silver anniversary and 25 years of TV’s most influential property experts, Kirstie and Phil, Channel 4 is to air a special night of programmes featuring the launch of a brand-new series of Location Location Location as well as two new one-offs.

    IWC Media (a Banijay UK company), producers of Location Location Location, have been commissioned to make 25 Years of Location Location Location and Kirstie & Phil: Bleeps, Bloops & Best Bits.

    In 25 Years of Location Location Location (1×60’), Kirstie and Phil take a trip down memory lane and look chronologically at the dramatic socio-economic timeline of the UK property market since the show’s inception, showing the ups and downs of a nation wanting a place to call home. The pair also examine the changing demands, property trends and technology across the years – including an offer chat in a phone box!

    Kirstie & Phil: Bleeps, Bloops & Best Bits (1×30’) sees Kirstie and Phil share their candid memories of 25 years of house hunting together, squeamishly looking back at the noughties, as well as revealing never-before-seen bloopers and outtakes past series.

    Kirstie Allsopp says: “However many times I hear it I still can’t believe it has been 25 years, it is an enormous privilege to have the opportunity to travel around the whole country working with so many lovely house hunters and such brilliant crew.  When Phil and I started we knew a bit about property and nothing about TV, we’ve learned a great deal more about property and a bit about TV. “

    Phil Spencer adds: “Although quite surreal, it’s also been fun looking back and seeing not only how we have changed through the 25 years, but also watching how our friendship developed and then strengthened across the years. Being able to visit every part of the four nations and support hundreds of people in their home searches has been an enormous privilege – none of which would have been achievable without so many brilliant people behind the camera.”

    Over 25 years, Kirstie and Phil have helped nearly 750 people in their property searches and viewed over 1,800 homes, being entrusted with over £175 million of Brits’ money. In the new series of Location Location Location, beginning as part of the anniversary night on 14 May, Kirstie and Phil assist more home seekers in North Wales and North London, before heading to Stirling and East Dunbartonshire, Oxfordshire, South London, Surrey, Chelmsford and Glasgow.

    Deborah Dunnett, Commissioning Editor for Channel 4, said:

    “Location Location Location is not only a pioneer in being one of the first property series on television, it has also led the way in taking its production into the nations and regions with its Glasgow base. That’s where I first worked with Phil and Kirstie, directing Location Location Location, and it is a huge privilege to now commission a glorious night of TV celebrating the show’s enduring legacy – which, ultimately, is making peoples’ dreams come true. Cheers to 25 years of Kirstie and Phil!”

    Gerard Costello, Head of Popular Factual at IWC Media, comments:

    “All of us at IWC are hugely proud of Location Location Location and it has been our pleasure to celebrate it in this way. Kirstie and Phil’s fondness for their house hunters, for each other and for the thrill of the search resonates in these anniversary programmes. With the show now helping house hunters who tell us they grew up with the programme, it is wonderful to see Kirstie and Phil just as determined to help them as they’ve always been. Long may it continue.”

    Location Location Location, 25 Years of Location Location Location and Kirstie & Phil: Bleeps, Bloops & Best Bits are IWC Media productions for Channel 4. They are commissioned by Deborah Dunnett, Commissioning Editor, Lifestyle, with Jasper Hone, Commissioning Executive, Lifestyle and Jo Street, Director of Commissioning, Nations & Regions and Head of Lifestyle. The executive producers for IWC Media are Gerard Costello and Julyan Sinclair with Series Producer, Harriette Powell.

    Celebrate 25 years of Location Location Location with Channel 4. Watch or stream the new series and specials from 8pm on Wednesday 14 May. Kirstie and Phil’s top 10 episodes will also be available to stream on Channel4.com.

  4. BRENDA BLETHYN AND JESSICA REYNOLDS TO LEAD CHANNEL 4 ADAPTATION OF A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE

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    Filming has commenced in Yorkshire on a brand-new adaptation of A Woman of Substance for Channel 4, starring Brenda Blethyn (Vera, Pride and Prejudice) as Emma Harte and Jessica Reynolds (Kneecap & The Wolf, The Fox & The Leopard) as the younger version of the iconic character, a housemaid-turned-mogul, daughter, mother, lover, fighter and a 20th century feminist icon who refused to know her ‘place’.

    Produced by The Forge Entertainment (National Treasure, The Buccaneers, Marriage), a Banijay UK company, the eight-part series is written by Katherine Jakeways (The Buccaneers) and co-written by Roanne Bardsley (The Buccaneers, Screw).

    Joining the ensemble cast are Emmett J Scanlan (Fool Me Once, Kin) as Adam Fairley, Lydia Leonard (The Mirror and The Light, Ten Percent) as Olivia Wainwright, Leanne Best (This City Is Ours, Line of Duty) as Adele Fairley, Ewan Horrocks (The Last Kingdom, Domina) as Edwin Fairley, Harry Cadby (In Flight, Everything Now) as Gerald Fairley, Will Mellor (Mr Bates vs the Post Office, Line of Duty) as Jack Harte, BAFTA-winning Lenny Rush (Am I Being Unreasonable, Doctor Who) as Frank Harte, Niall Wright (Hope Street, Slow Horses) as Mac, Robert Wilfort (Gavin and Stacey, Wolf Hall) as Murgatroyd, Mara Huf (Tetris, Death Us Do Part) as Paula,  Toby Regbo (Medici, A Discovery of Witches) as Jim Fairley, Hiftu Quasem (The Witcher, Ten Percent) as Priya Chandra, Sophie Bould (Waving, Sex Education) as Elizabeth Harte and Georgina Sadler (Silo, Boarders) as Polly.

    1. Emma Harte, an impoverished ambitious maid in Yorkshire, England goes on a dizzying journey to become the world’s richest woman, gazing down from a sprawling luxury New York penthouse. A rags-to-riches tale of women through the 20th century, Emma defies the expectations of her society, fearlessly challenging the roles she’s given, smashing glass ceilings, and never, ever deviating from her masterplan: Get to the top. Whatever it takes.

    Previously Emmy-nominated and Channel 4’s biggest ever drama when it was made 40 years ago, this new revenge romp is a re-imagining of the multi-million bestselling novel and global phenomenon written by Barbara Taylor Bradford, which feels just as searingly relevant today as it did back then.

    Brenda Blethyn says: “I’m overjoyed to be taking on this iconic role, in the footsteps of the great Deborah Kerr. As a fan of Barbara Taylor-Bradford, it is an unmissable opportunity to play the fierce Emma Harte.”

    Jessica Reynolds says: “To be a part of A Woman of Substance and to step into the shoes of Emma is an absolute dream for me. The team and cast we have behind this are truly inspiring and I’m so excited to bring the stunning scripts and this great piece of literature to the screen.”

    Rebecca Holdsworth, Commissioning Editor, Drama at Channel 4 adds: “Attracting an ensemble cast of this quality is testament to Katherine and Roanne’s exceptional scripts. We are so excited to be bringing this fresh, sexy and bold adaptation of an iconic book to Channel 4.”

    An 8×60’ drama series by The Forge Entertainment, Beth Willis, Joe Innes, George Faber and Katherine Jakeways are the executive producers alongside Barbara Taylor-Bradford. Roanne Bardsley is co-executive Producer.  Charlie Palmer (Extraordinary, Agatha Raisin) is producer and John Hardwick (The Buccaneers, One Day, The A Word) will direct block one.

    A Woman of Substance has been commissioned for Channel 4 by Ollie Madden, Director of Film4 and Channel 4 Drama and Rebecca Holdsworth, Commissioning Editor, Drama. A Woman of Substance will be distributed internationally by Banijay Rights.

    Transmission details will be announced in due course.

  5. KEELEY HAWES AND PAAPA ESSIEDU TO LEAD NEW DRAMA ‘FALLING’ WRITTEN BY JACK THORNE

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    Filming has commenced in Wales and Bristol on major new Channel 4 drama, Falling, produced by The Forge Entertainment, a Banijay UK company (National Treasure, The Buccaneers, Marriage). Keeley Hawes (Scoop, Miss Austen) will star as Anna, a devoted nun, and Paapa Essiedu (Black Mirror, The Lazarus Project) as David, a Catholic priest, in BAFTA award-winning writer Jack Thorne’s (Adolescence, Help) first ever love story.

    Both are deeply committed to their work in the church and in their community. Neither are expected to fall in love. But when they do, both are forced to wrestle with what it means for them, their vows, and their relationship with God. Falling is a witty, moving, contemporary romantic drama that is as honest as it is full of heart. 

    Also joining the cast of Falling are Rakie Ayola (The Pact, Kaos), Jason Watkins (Coma, The Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies), Niamh Cusack (The Virtues, Heartbeat), Adrian Scarborough (Gavin and Stacey, The Chelsea Detective), David Dawson (My Policeman, The Last Kingdom), Susan Brown (Mr Bates vs The Post Office, It’s A Sin), Sandra Voe (Howards End, Vera Drake) and introducing TV newcomers, Holly Rhys and Shayde Sinclair. 

    Keeley Hawes says: “I’m thrilled to be taking on the role of Anna and so looking forward to working alongside the brilliant Paapa Essiedu to bring Jack Thorne’s beautiful scripts to life.” 

    Paapa Essiedu says: “Falling is a story that has Jack Thorne’s singular talent of mining the sublime out of the ordinary running all the way through. I can’t wait to work with Keeley, Peter and the rest of the team to bring this world to life.” 

    Jack Thorne says: “I never thought I’d write a love story, but I am very excited to be making one with the brilliant Peter Hoar. We feel so lucky we have persuaded the mighty (and lovely) Keeley Hawes, the brilliant (and also lovely) Paapa Essiedu and the most amazing company of (lovely) actors to come make this with us, The Forge and Channel 4.” 

    Gwawr Lloyd, Commissioning Editor, Drama adds: “The combination of Keeley Hawes and Paapa Essiedu, alongside Jack Thorne’s incredible scripts and Peter Hoar’s direction means this will be the most extraordinary show. We are so excited to bring this unique and compelling love story to Channel 4.” 

    A 6×60’ drama from The Forge, Falling is executive produced by George Ormond, George Faber and Jack Thorne. Joe Donaldson (Cobra, Ripper Street, Peaky Blinders) is the producer and Peter Hoar (It’s A Sin, The Last of Us, Umbrella Academy) will direct. Falling has been commissioned for Channel 4 by Ollie Madden, Director of Film4 and Channel 4 Drama and Gwawr Lloyd, Commissioning Editor, Drama. 

    Falling will be distributed internationally by Banijay Rights.

  6. Banijay Rights Triumphs with Bergerac International Deals

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    Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment, today announces landmark acquisitions of major new six-part drama series Bergerac ahead of this month’s London TV Screenings.

    In deals negotiated across the Banijay Rights global sales team, Bergerac has been acquired by NPO in Netherlands, VRT in Belgium, SVT in Sweden, YLE in Finland, NRK in Norway, DR in Denmark, BBC First in Poland and TVNZ in New Zealand. ABC in Australia has also acquired the series, as previously announced.

    Produced by BlackLight TV, part of Banijay UK, Jersey-based Westward Studios and supported by Visit Jersey for U&DRAMA in the UK, the 6 x 60’ series sees Damien Molony (The Split, Brassic, Crashing) star in the iconic role of Jim Bergerac.

    Based on the original series created by Robert Banks Stewart, which starred John Nettles and ran for nine series on the BBC between 1981 and 1991, this modern re-imagining honours the iconic detective drama, but with a contemporary twist. Unlike the original hit from the 80s, the new series sees one character-led murder mystery run across all six episodes, in place of a new storyline each episode.

    Claire Jago, EVP Sales & Acquisitions EMEA, Banijay Rights said: “Bergerac is an enthralling, contemporary re-imagining of the much-loved 1980s crime drama, once again set in Jersey and featuring the iconic Triumph Roadster car. We have a fantastic new cast, writing and directing talent and are privileged to bring this drama to broadcasters and platforms around the world as we head into London TV Screenings this month.”

    Ben Bickerton, BlackLight TV, said: “We are so excited to be bringing back such an iconic title that means so much to so many people. With Toby Whithouse’s compelling scripts and Colm McCarthy’s outstanding direction, the relaunch will delight fans of the original and introduce Bergerac, and the beautiful island of Jersey, to a new audience around the world.”

    Bergerac is written by Toby Whithouse (The Red King, Being Human), alongside Brian Fillis (Trust, Sirens), Catherine Tregenna (The One That Got Away, Three Pines) and Polly Buckle (Love Rat, A Discovery of Witches). The drama also features Zoë Wanamaker (My Family, Shadow and Bone, Black Ops) as Charlie Hungerford, Philip Glenister (Steeltown Murders, Life on Mars) as Arthur Wakefield and introduces Chloé Sweet Love as Jim’s daughter, Kim.

    Viewers meet Bergerac (Molony) as a broken man, grappling with grief and alcoholism following his wife’s recent death. His mother-in-law, Charlie (Wanamaker), is concerned Jim isn’t putting his daughter Kim first and, when a woman from a wealthy Jersey family is murdered, Jim must fight through his personal struggles to become the formidable investigator he once was. With a troublesome convict resurfacing from his past, Bergerac is required to call on his sharp investigative instincts and past successes to navigate the intricate family dynamics, and watchful eyes of the police force, in order to solve the case.

    The series was commissioned by Hilary Rosen, director of commissioning for UKTV, with Helen Perry, head of drama commissioning, acting as executive producer for UKTV. Executive producers for BlackLight TV are Ben Bickerton, Philip Trethowan and Toby Whithouse. Brian Constantine is executive producer for Westward Studios. The series is directed by Colm McCarthy (The Bastard Son & the Devil Himself, Peaky Blinders) and Sean Spencer (The Lazarus Project, A Town Called Malice) and produced by Clare Alan (Resistance, Rebellion).

    Bergerac is one of several scripted highlights on Banijay Entertainment’s slate for London TV Screenings 2025, with the content powerhouse’s full line up due to be announced shortly. The Banijay Entertainment Showcase will be held on Wednesday 26th February at BAFTA, 195 Piccadilly.

     

  7. BBC announces new drama Open Water based on the award-winning debut novel by Caleb Azumah Nelson

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    The BBC has commissioned Open Water, a new drama based on Caleb Azumah Nelson’s multi award-winning debut novel of the same name. The eight-part series for BBC iPlayer and BBC One will be produced by Mam Tor Productions (a Banijay UK company) and B-Side Productions, with Azumah Nelson serving as the drama’s lead writer, director and executive producer.

    Marcus works in retail while trying to develop a career as a photographer. Effie is studying dance at university in Dublin. From the moment they meet, they feel an immediate, undeniable connection. But, as Marcus soon learns, Effie is in a relationship with Marcus’ friend Samuel. It’s a boundary that Marcus is unwilling to cross. A shared project, photographing and documenting Black creatives in London, draws them into each other’s orbit, but can their burgeoning friendship resist the pull of desire?

    They seem destined for each other, their crush evolving into a love that is ocean-deep. But love is never enough, and their path towards one another is treacherous. Will they sink or swim in open water?

    Caleb Azumah Nelson says: “It’s been an absolute joy working alongside Mam Tor, B-Side and the BBC to adapt Open Water for the screen. I can’t wait for viewers not only to meet Marcus and Effie but to step into their world: their private, intimate spaces, their communities, their desires. I’m incredibly grateful to be telling this story at this time.”

    Tally Garner, executive producer, Mam Tor Productions, says: “The incredible Caleb Azumah Nelson’s Open Water is the most profound and vital love story, and I am overjoyed to be bringing his beautiful and distinctive vision to the screen with Lindsay Salt, Rebecca Ferguson and Danielle Scott-Haughton at the BBC, and Matimba Kabalika at B-Side who are the perfect partners.”

    Matimba Kabalika, executive producer, B-Side Productions, says: “Open Water is such a beautiful ode to love, youth, and joys big and small, as well as an honest exploration of the journey of finding your way in love and life. I’m thrilled to be working on it with Caleb Azumah Nelson, Tally Garner at Mam Tor and the brilliant team at the BBC. We cannot wait to bring this story to life.”

    Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, says: “Open Water is a tender, bold and dazzling story about the dance of early love and being seen for who you really are. The response to Caleb’s book was phenomenal, and we feel privileged to be working with him to bring this breathtaking romance to the BBC.”

    Open Water (8×30) is made by Mam Tor Productions (a Banijay UK company) and B-Side Productions for BBC iPlayer and BBC One. It was commissioned by Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama. Banijay Rights handles international distribution. Caleb Azumah Nelson is the lead writer and director and will also serve as executive producer alongside Tally Garner for Mam Tor Productions, Matimba Kabalika for B-Side Productions, and Rebecca Ferguson and Danielle Scott-Haughton for the BBC.

  8. BIG BROTHER AND CELEBRITY BIG BROTHER RETURN IN 2025 AS BRAND HITS 96 MILLION STREAMS ON ITVX

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    ITV today announced that Big Brother (produced by Initial, part of Banijay UK) will return for a third series in 2025 following a second series of Celebrity Big Brother set to air in spring, marking 25 years of Big Brother in the UK.

    The channel’s second instalment of the original reality format is set to conclude tomorrow night (Nov 15) after another successful series which once again dominated conversations on social media. During tomorrow’s Live Final, viewers will crown the winner of the current series, who will walk away victorious with a life-changing cash prize.

    The third series of Big Brother on ITV2 and ITVX will follow another iconic star-studded edition of Celebrity Big Brother which is set to air on ITV1, STV, ITVX and STV Player in spring 2025, as a new batch of famous faces take up residence in the UK’s most famous abode.

    Applications for next year’s series of Big Brother are now open – hopefuls who believe they have what it takes to take on the original social experiment can now apply by visiting BigBrother.com.

    The global television phenomenon made a triumphant return to UK television screens in 2023 on its new home – ITV and ITVX. Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother alongside the iconic Live Stream and Late & Live companion show, has now been streamed an enormous 96 million times on ITVX.

    Paul Mortimer, Director of Reality Commissioning and Acquisitions said, “Big Brother programming has firmly established itself across ITV’s platforms and become a favourite with our viewers. Together, Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother have grown audiences on ITV1 and ITV2 and amassed almost 100 million streams on ITVX. We’re therefore very excited to be able to throw open the House doors once again for another series of both Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother in 2025 which are sure to promise more unmissable entertaining and captivating moments.”

    Katy Manley, Managing Director of Initial, said: “We are so excited to be coming back with more Celebrity Big Brother and Big Brother. Both series have really resonated with audiences, and we can’t wait to make more. As always, viewers can look forward to Big Brother keeping Housemates – celebrities and civilians alike – on their toes.”

    Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother are commissioned for ITV and ITVX by Paul Mortimer, Director of Reality Commissioning & Acquisitions and Peter Tierney, Commissioning Editor, Reality. The return of Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother was secured by leading entertainment and format producers Natalka Znak and Claire O’Donohoe for Initial (part of Banijay UK). Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother are overseen by Initial’s Managing Director Katy Manley, Director of Production Jody Collins and Creative Director Tamsin Dodgson.

  9. Global Buyers Catch Welsh Crime Drama The One That Got Away From Banijay Rights

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    Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment, today announces that UK public broadcaster the BBC has acquired new crime drama series The One That Got Away for BBC Wales, BBC Four and BBC iPlayer, as MIPCOM 2024 gets underway.

    Produced by BlackLight TV (a Banijay UK company), the series has also been acquired by SVT in Sweden, RTÉ in Ireland and Warner Bros Discovery in New Zealand in deals negotiated by the Banijay Rights global sales team.

    Written by Catherine Tregenna (Law & Order UK, Lewis, DCI Banks) and starring Elen Rhys (The Mallorca Files, Craith/Hidden), Richard Harrington (Y Gwyll/Hinterland) and Rhian Blythe (Y Golau / The Light in the Hall, Craith / Hidden), The One That Got Away is a psychologically driven thriller that sees DI Ffion Lloyd (Rhys) partnering up with her ex-lover DS Rick Walters (Harrington) to find out who is responsible for murdering a nurse in a Welsh coastal town. The series is the English language version of Welsh-language drama Cleddau, an original series for Welsh language broadcaster S4C.

    Chris Stewart, SVP Sales, UK & Eire, Banijay Rights, who brokered the BBC deal, said: “The One That Got Away is a thrilling new crime drama that combines gripping murder mystery with an electrifying love story. Set against the coastal backdrops of beautiful West Wales and fronted by a stellar cast, the series reinforces the BBC’s reputation in showcasing the strength in Welsh storytelling and helping to bring the best in Welsh drama to a global stage.”

    Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, says: “The One That Got Away is a deliciously dark and atmospheric thriller – sure to keep BBC viewers gripped to the very end…”

    Ben Bickerton and Phil Trethowan, Joint Managing Directors, BlackLight TV, said: “The One That Got Away is as interested in the personal as it is the professional, with high stakes and captivating characters. We’re delighted it’s found a home in the UK on the BBC and internationally in Australia, Ireland, New Zealand and Sweden, where we are sure it will hook and thrill the audience.”

    Filmed and set on location in Pembroke Dock, Wales, the shocking murder of a nurse opens old wounds in a small-town community, throwing a historic conviction into doubt, raising the horrifying prospect of a copycat killer and reuniting two former lovers tasked with finding the killer. With twists and turns leading to a heart-stopping finale, The One That Got Away is a forensic examination of a town, a killer and a relationship, past and present.

    The series was produced by Blacklight TV for S4C and supported by Welsh Government via Creative Wales. The drama is one of several scripted highlights on Banijay Entertainment’s slate for MIPCOM 2024, which includes Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light and the re-imagining of iconic detective drama Bergerac. The company will exhibit at C.20 in Cannes.

  10. France, Poland and the Netherlands Bid For Return Masters

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    Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces Return Masters has been picked up by France’s 6ter for 6×52’, Poland’s Super Polsat for a 24×60’ run, and the Netherlands’ RTL5 for a 50×43’ series. Originally created by Endemol Shine Germany and DSP (part of Banijay UK), the latest versions will be produced by Banijay Entertainment’s Endemol France, Endemol Shine Poland (part of Banijay Germany), and SimpelZodiak (part of Banijay Benelux) respectively.

    Return Masters follows second-hand traders competing to make the most profit by bidding on mystery pallets filled with returned goods. Using their expertise, they go head-to-head as they haggle, bid, and bag bargains galore in the ultimate battle of returns dealers. It has run for four seasons on RTL in Germany and the French, Polish and Dutch versions mark the first international adaptations.

    Jean-Louis Blot, CEO, Endemol France says: “This fun-filled game show combines the thrill of bidding, with the mystery of not knowing exactly what’s inside the pallets, making it a must-watch for the entire family. Given its long-running success in Germany, we look forward to seeing Return Masters’ debut on 6ter’s primetime line-up.”

    Małgorzata Perkowska-Czaja, MD, Endemol Shine Poland says: “Return Masters is an authentic, character-driven show, featuring experienced and passionate dealers that audiences can’t help but root for. This format has been captivating audiences in Germany for four series. We are pleased to bring it to Poland and we believe it will resonate with Polish viewers and be well-received here.”

    Justine Huffmeijer, Managing Director at SimpelZodiak says: “By leaning into the shared expertise of the Banijay Entertainment teams around the group, we can give audiences in the Netherlands the best, premium formats from all around the world. Return Masters is a great fit for RTL5, incorporating light-hearted competition that is fun and entertaining for viewers.”

    Fabian Tobias, Managing Director Endemol Shine Germany, says: “Touching on hot topics, from sustainability to the current unboxing returned goods trend on social media, the show is well-suited for many international broadcasters. With its strong format pillars interwoven with local second-hand industries, we look forward to seeing how Endemol France, Endemol Shine Poland and SimpelZodiak adapt the series for their respective markets.”

    Endemol France, part of Banijay France, is a non-scripted juggernaut having produced recent hits such as Star Academy, LEGO® Masters, Celebrity Hunted, and LOL: Last One Laughing.

    Endemol Shine Poland has over 20 years’ experience producing hit shows including local adaptations of renowned brands Don’t Forget The Lyrics, MasterChef, LEGO Masters, All Together Now, You Can Dance, New Generation, Money Drop and Big Brother, amongst others. In addition, it is behind premium scripted programming such as Our Century for TVP 1, and Squared Love for Netflix.

    SimpelZodiak is a specialist in reality, adventure, 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 and Your Home Made Perfect.

  11. Jack Whitehall Spreads Christmas Cheer With Brand New Comedy Special For Prime Video – Jack in Time for Christmas

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    Prime Video unveiled its brand-new Christmas Special Jack In Time For Christmas, led by comedian and actor, Jack Whitehall. The UK Original is set to launch exclusively on Prime Video worldwide in December 2024. The special is produced by Workerbee (a Banijay UK company) and Jackpot Productions.

    ‘Tis the season for gifts, goodwill, and of course genre-bending seasonal semi-scripted specials. That’s why Prime Video has wrapped up the ultimate Christmas present for comedy lovers. In this hilariously festive feature, Jack Whitehall finds himself stranded in the USA with just four days to make it back to the UK for Christmas. With time ticking away, Jack embarks on an incredible and, some would say, implausible journey involving planes, trains, huskies, and bobsleighs. A stockingful of conveniently located famous faces help (and hinder) along the way as Jack navigates the chaos of Christmas and tries to make it home in time.

    Part scripted comedy, part unscripted travelogue – Jack is joined by Michael Bublé, Dave Bautista, Rebel Wilson, Jimmy Fallon, Daisy May Cooper, and Tom Davies, who, together with Jack’s unmistakable British wit, deliver a sparkling international cast set to deliver heaps of laughter. Will Jack make it home in time to make the gravy? Or will he be spending the holidays in the states, and the doghouse?

  12. WRITER IN RESIDENCE SCHEME LAUNCHED BY CONKER PICTURES NORTHERN IRELAND

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    Belfast-based TV production company, Conker Pictures Northern Ireland (part of Banijay UK), is looking for up-and-coming writers from Northern Ireland for their brand-new, year-long Writer In Residence scheme.

    The scheme, which runs from January-December 2025, is being launched to help nurture the next generation of showrunners from Northern Ireland.

    It is being aimed at emerging and established writers who can represent the culture of Northern Ireland with authenticity – for example they may be from, or have lived or worked in, Northern Ireland. They will need to have had one script produced in either theatre, TV, radio or film, but ideally no more than one produced credit in film or TV.

    The chosen writer will have access to development meetings, writers’ rooms, feedback on ideas and scripts, invitations to industry events and mentoring workshops with leading industry creative talent. The scheme will culminate in a guaranteed in-house script commission that will be pitched to broadcasters with a view to getting the idea on TV.

     Kim Varvell and Tommy Bulfin, Conker Pictures CEOs, said: 

    “We’re delighted to be launching this writer in residence scheme out of our new Northern Irish base for Conker Pictures. Northern Ireland has such a long history of talented creatives from screenwriters, authors, playwrights and poets. We’re really thrilled to be nurturing the next generation of screenwriting talent from the region and can’t wait to get started.”

    Agents should email info@conkerpictures.com with a bio and sample for any writer they would like to put forward for the scheme. The closing date for applications is Friday 18th October. The recipient of the writer in residence scheme will be announced during the week of the Belfast Media Festival (w/c 11th November).

    In line with Banijay Entertainment’s commitment to championing new voices with creative ambition, this scheme is supported by the company’s Scripted Fund. Available to producers across the group’s footprint, the fund enhances the scope of projects, allowing creatives to fully realise their vision. Other recent scripted initiatives include Banijay Bootcamp, which paired in-house development executives from five different countries with emerging writers in a dynamic residency.