Comments Off on Banijay Entertainment Presents Shine Iberia’s Game of Chairs
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces its latest nostalgia-driven, family-friendly, competition format, Game of Chairs. Created by Shine Iberia (part of Banijay Iberia), the series was part of Banijay Entertainment’s exclusive line-up at this year’s London TV Screenings, Banijay @ BAFTA 195 Piccadilly.
The traditional game of musical chairs has been transformed into a vibrant competition, blending tactical and skill-based challenges. As the music plays, ten contestants circle around nine chairs, but when the music stops, one will be left without a seat. They must battle it out with another contestant, in a challenge to determine who stays in the game. As the show progresses, the prize pot grows, and the number of chairs decreases. The victor will then face The Master Chair, where they will compete to win the grand final prize. If they fail to secure it, they will compete again the next day alongside the last four eliminated contestants.
Macarena Rey, CEO, Shine Iberia says: “Fun for all the family, Game of Chairs is inspired by a classic childhood game played all around the world. Our dynamic blend of game show and nostalgia elevates the party favourite, resulting in a dynamic format with international appeal.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development at Banijay Entertainment adds: “Nostalgia, tension, strategy, and knowledge come together in this original concept, which appeals to a wide demographic. Reimagining childhood favourites is a firm favourite with our clients, and Game of Chairs is a fantastic addition to our slate, complementing our successful formats in the space with the likes of LEGO® Masters and Bear Hunt.”
Since 2012, Shine Iberia has produced hit shows in Spain and Portugal, with home-grown content such as the documentary boxset series Bosé Renacido, as well as local adaptations from Banijay Entertainment’s diverse catalogue, including MasterChef, alongside third-party formats such as Next Level Chef,Sewing Bee and The Voice Portugal. Shine Iberia also creates premium branded content such as Hairstyle: The Talent Show, producing five local versions covering Spain, Italy, the U.S., Mexico and Brazil, and Mistura Beirão. It recently moved into scripted programming with biopic Bosé, a collaboration with Elefantec Global and Legacy Rock for Paramount+.
Comments Off on Banijay Entertainment and SimpelZodiak Kick Off Football Island at London TV Screenings
Content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment today unveils Football Island, a groundbreaking format blending sports, survival and competition reality. Created by SimpelZodiak (part of Banijay Benelux), the premium title is set to be a highlight in the exclusive London TV Screenings line-up for Banijay @ BAFTA 195 Piccadilly. Football Island will be the first co-production between SimpelZodiak and Banijay Benelux label Southfields, the largest sports production company in the Netherlands.
Making its global debut in the Netherlands, Football Island drops 13 legendary footballers in a remote tropical location, stripping them of stadiums, status and comfort. Battling the elements they fight for the basics, and victory, in high-stakes, football-inspired challenges. With friendships tested, rivalries reignited, and legacies on the line, this raw and unscripted adventure brings the beautiful game into the brutal wild.
Justine Huffmeijer, Managing Director at SimpelZodiak says: “Football Island is a one-of-a-kind concept bringing legendary footballers back into the heat of fierce competition. This is more than just a game – it’s also a test of strategy, and endurance. Watching football icons relive past clashes and push their unceasing competitive spirit in a high-stake survival environment is set to be a thrilling spectacle for audiences to enjoy.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development, Banijay Entertainment: “Football Island’ electrifying fusion of genres will appeal to sports and entertainment fans alike, offering an intense, character-driven reality format to meet the needs of our many clients around the world. With an outstanding track-record producing high-profile global formats like Survivor and Hunted, SimpelZodiak has raised the bar, pushing survival and reality to the next level, where strategy, resilience and football collide.”
Banijay Benelux label, SimpelZodiak, specialises in adventure reality and factual entertainment for linear and VOD platforms. The company is behind local versions of global hits including Survivor, Special Forces and Hunted. Other credits include Good Luck Guys, Shaolin Heroes, and Banged Up.
Additional titles within Banijay Entertainment’s format line-up for London TV Screenings include Against All Odds (Meter/Jarowskij), Mission Unknown: Atlantic (Banijay Productions Germany), The Rest of Your Life (Pineapple Entertainment), AI Love You (Nordisk Film TV) and 30 Days and 30 Dates (Cuarzo Producciones).
This new title taps into Banijay Entertainment’s growing efforts in sport following its launch of Banijay Sports.
Comments Off on Banijay Entertainment Brings Comedian Cupids to London TV Screenings with Date on Stage
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today unveils Date on Stage, a fresh and hilariousnew dating format joiningits exclusive London TV Screenings event, Banijay @ BAFTA 195 Piccadilly. Created and produced by Banijay Benelux label TwentyTwo, and commissioned byOmroep Zwart for NPO Start and NPO3, this format puts love and laughs literally in the spotlight.
In Date on Stage, singles search for romance without looks getting in the way. Blindfolded, one single embarks on a date with two potential matches, guided only by conversation, chemistry and instinct. But there’s a twist, imagine a first date live on a theatre stage, with a real audience watching every awkward moment and flirtatious attempt. Thankfully, the singleton isn’t all on their own. Two quick-witted comedian cupids are on hand to stir the action, and they aren’t shy at sharing their honest and entertaining opinions, making sure the journey to love is anything but predictable.
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development at BanijayEntertainment, comments: “This original new format is packed with real heart and a hugedose of chaotic comedy energy, providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. It is a unique take on the dating genre, mixing humour, theatre and romance. Date on Stage is perfect for buyers looking for a scalable, high-energyseries to draw fans of comedy and love, whether they’re searching for romance or just a good laugh.”
Paul van der Maesen, Producer, TwentyTwo Productions says:“Dating is sometimes taken too seriously, both on television and in real life. But it can be light-hearted, and full of hilarious moments. Date on Stagebrings romance and comedy together: it’s live, unfiltered and packed with surprises.This format taps into the mostpopular dating trends you see on social media, bringing them to life in an unpredictable and wildly entertaining way. With witty comedians leading the charge, and real singletons putting their heart, and dignity on the line, it’s dating at its most spontaneous and fun.”
Other titles within Banijay Entertainment’s format line-up for London TV Screenings include Spain’s 30 Days and 30 Dates (Cuarzo for Mitele Plus), Sweden’s Against All Odds(Meter/ Jarowskij for SVT),Germany’s Mission Unknown: Atlantic(Banijay Productions Germany for Prime Video),Denmark’sThe Rest of Your Life (Pineapple Entertainment for DR1 and DR TV)and AI Love You (Nordisk Film TV for TV 2).
Comments Off on Banijay Entertainment Lifts the Curtain on Must-See London TV Screenings Line-Up
Global content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces its top-tier premium line-up for its exclusive London TV Screenings event, Banijay @ BAFTA 195 Piccadilly.With a range of captivating and multi-genre programming, the group’s event will span three sessions on Wednesday, 26th February.
Headlining the 2025 showcase is Maigret the first contemporary television adaptation of Georges Simenon’s beloved detective novels, from the Golden Globe and BAFTA award-winning production company behind Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light; landmark documentary series 7/7: The London Bombings, marking the 20th anniversary of the London attack; and reality dating format 30 Dates in 30 Nights with several brand new formats to be announced on the day. Additionally, the powerhouse will spotlight highly-anticipated reboots including fan-favourite reality series Faking It.
Cathy Payne, CEO, Banijay Rights says: “From high-end dramas to gripping factual series, this year’s line-up highlights the exceptional depth and quality of our burgeoning catalogue, reinforcing our reputation for delivering standout content across multiple genres to buyers worldwide. We cannot wait to come together later this month with our partners at BAFTA 195 Piccadilly for what has become an unmissable event in the TV industry calendar.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development and Lucas Green, Chief Content Officer, Operations at Banijay Entertainment, comment: “The London TV Screenings is the perfect stage to showcase Banijay Entertainment’s latest and most innovative IP, alongside reimagined hit formats. Creativity is brimming across our footprint, and with global partners seeking bold new formats, our portfolio of buzzworthy titles truly set us apart.”
For its UK premium scripted slate, Banijay Rights’ offering includes Maigret for MASTERPIECE from Playground, which reframes Parisian Chief Inspector, Jules Maigret, as an unconventional young detective; a modern re-imagining of iconic detective series Bergerac, an U&Original seriesfor U and U&DRAMA from Blacklight TV; Emmy-winning Baby Reindeer-creator Richard Gadd’s deeply personal drama Half Man for BBC and BBC Scotland, in coproduction with HBO, from Mam Tor Productions; Wild Mercury and Capricorn Productions’ psychological thriller FEAR for Amazon Prime Video; The Forge Entertainment’s Just Act Normal a comedy drama series about three stubbornly optimistic siblings with a dark secret, for BBC iPlayer and BBC Three; and The Feud, a domestic thriller for Channel 5 from Lonesome Pine Productions in association and North East Screen.
Crossing over to continental Europe is French crime series The Family Detective for TF1 from Shine Fiction; Dutch thriller Elixir for NPO and New8 from Banijay Benelux label Topkapi Films; and French horror thrillerThe Rose Family for Cine+ OCS from Black Sheep Films. Also featured are the eagerly awaited second seasons of Marie Antoinette, the CANAL+ Creation Originale, produced by CAPA Drama, Banijay Studios France and Beside Production; and Filmlance’s Swedish crime drama Fallen for TV4.
A range of fascinating documentaries headline the factual slate including 7/7: The London Bombings from The Slate Worksfor BBC Two and BBC iPlayer; true-crime series The Drowning Pool from Caravan for Channel 5;Workerbee’s gripping title Anatomy of a Murder; investigative climate justice documentary The Silence of the Earth,from Diagonal TV with Crescendo Media Production for TVE and ARTE;and CNN Original series Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain from Hyphenate Media Group.
Banijay Entertainment’s formats continue to push boundaries, with a blend of original and highly-entertaining offerings including Meter/Jarowskij’s cross-country skiing competition Against All Odds for SVT; influencer-fuelled adventure Mission Unknown: Atlantic from Banijay Productions Germanyfor Prime Video; life-changing Danish reality format TheRest of Your Life for DR1 and DR TV; and Nordisk Film TV’s docu-format AI Love You for TV 2.
On the reality front comes 30 Dates in 30 Nights from Cuarzo Producciones (part of Banijay Iberia) for Mitele Plus (Mediaset España) and highly-anticipated popular reboots including Faking it; Ladette to Lady and hit extension LEGO Masters: Out of the Box.
From its third-party non-scripted portfolio is reality format My Name Is Gabriel for JTBC and Disney+; unique culinary format Atypical Critics featuring autistic food critics; ultimate gameshows Genius Game for ITV and Clone Heads; and competitive knitting series Game of Wool for More 4. This follows yesterday’s announcement of The Insider, the first format to stem from a newly-announced co-development deal between Endemol Shine Australia and Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) – a reinvention of Junya Ueda’s Actor Vs Reactors.
These London TV Screenings highlights complement Banijay Entertainment’s globally renowned catalogue, which includes superbrands Big Brother and Peaky Blinders; travelling hits The Fifty and Good Luck Guys from Banijay France’s B Prod; and streamer launches Celebrity Bear Hunt, co-produced by Banijay UK’s Workerbee, The Natural Studios and Talkback for Netflix; Last One Laughing UK from Zeppotron and Initial for Prime Video, created byHitoshi Matsumotoand produced by Banijay Entertainment labels in 11 markets; and visually-stunning French drama Carême, a Shine Fiction (part of Banijay France) and VVZ Production for Apple TV+.
Comments Off on Banijay Entertainment Says AI Love You at London TV Screenings
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today unveils AI Love You, a pioneering tech-driven factual format headlining its exclusive London TV Screenings event, Banijay @ BAFTA 195 Piccadilly. Created and produced by Banijay Nordic label Nordisk Film TV, Denmark and commissioned by TV 2, the life-affirming format incorporates cutting-edge AI technology, available to global buyers as part of the international package.
AI Love You celebrates love’s resilience against life’s impermanence. Exploring everlasting love and loss, the show follows couples who face an early end to life, as they decide to use AI to preserve their love beyond life itself. Guided by a psychologist and tech expert, they spend their final months cherishing each moment while creating a digital avatar of their loved one. The journey begins with a heartfelt gathering where family and friends contribute memories, letters, videos and anecdotes shape the AI, capturing the quirks and essence of the person. As they construct the avatar, couples also visit dream destinations, mend old wounds and reconnect with those who shaped their lives. Once complete, the AI is stored away until needed, and after their partner’s passing, the surviving loved one, supported by a psychologist, chooses whether to engage with it, or leave it untouched.
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development at Banijay Entertainment, comments: “This trailblazing docu-format redefines how technology can enhance human storytelling. Packed with raw emotion, AI Love You pushes the creative boundaries and sets a new benchmark for non-scripted innovation. It’s a powerful concept, and impossible to ignore, adding even more scale and ambition to our London TV Screenings line-up.”
Ulrik Jørgensen, CEO Nordisk Film TV adds: “Bold and boundary-breaking, AI Love You merges tender human emotion with innovative technology. It’s a provocative exploration of love, loss, and memory, capturing the intimacy of personal connections and embracing the unfamiliar possibilities of AI. In true Nordic style, this docu-format dares to challenge conventions, offering a ground-breaking perspective on how we sustain our relationships in the digital age.”
One of Denmark’s leading production companies, Banijay Nordic’s label Nordisk Film TV creates premium content across a range of genres, with successes including All Against 1, Wonderkids and Home of the Year.
Other titles within Banijay Entertainment’s format line-up for London TV Screenings include Sweden’s Against All Odds (Meter/ Jarowskij for SVT), Germany’s Mission Unknown: Atlantic (Banijay Productions Germany for Prime Video), Denmark’s The Rest of Your Life (Pineapple Entertainment for DR1 and DR TV) and Spain’s 30 Days and 30 Dates (Cuarzo for Mitele Plus)
Comments Off on Banijay Entertainment Activates Banijay Launch Cycle Two
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today opens its application process for a second cycle of its award-winning global initiative, Banijay Launch. Designed to exclusively support women creators with promising unscripted formats, the program was first launched at MIPCOM ’23, with winners for its initial cycle announced in March.
Coinciding with its second run, Banijay Launch is today set to accept this year’s “Behind the Scenes Impact Award” at the Diversify TV Awards (MIPCOM ’24), owing to its contribution to diversity and inclusion within the content community. Those around the world wishing to apply to this year’s initiative, dedicated to discovering and incubating untapped talent from all backgrounds to support the next generation of global franchise makers, can apply here.
The winner(s) of Banijay Launch will emerge victorious from the three to five finalists in the process who are all mentored by a local creative to develop their formats, with the aim of nurturing them to screen. Supported over several months, the competition culminates with a live pitch presentation before a judging panel. The winner(s) are then given additional guidance and support as they take their ideas out to buyers.
Sharon Levy, CEO, Endemol Shine North America and James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development, Banijay Entertainment: “It’s very difficult to nurture and navigate an idea to screen for even the most experienced creators, let alone women creators who don’t have ‘connections’ to a prodco or group. The recent study we conducted with the Geena Davis Institute really reinforced the gender imbalance in unscripted creation, and with Banijay Launch we hope to open the door to women whose ideas may not otherwise be heard and facilitate positive change for these creators while supercharging our pipeline, and the industry’s at-large. The market and creative economy relies on great ideas, and we don’t want to leave any behind… particularly from women.”
In its first run, Banijay Launch received an extraordinary 500+ applications from 30+ territories and a diversity of backgrounds. With the finalists pitching their ideas in-person to an esteemed jury comprisingEndemol Shine North America CEO, Sharon Levy; Banijay Chief Content Officer, Development, James Townley; Banijay Chief Business Officer, Fred Balmary; Banijay Iberia CEO, Pilar Blasco; and Founder and CEO of Everywoman Studios, Abby Greensfelder, two winners were selected – Amber Kane (Australia), for variety talent concept, Double Act; and Emily Wilson (UK), for psychological dating format, Can’t Buy Love. This year, the judges will be joined by Cathy Payne, CEO, Banijay Rights, and Alexia Laroche-Joubert, CEO, Banijay France.
The first cycle of Banijay Launch was initiated by Levy, co-led by Townley, and supported by a network of creative ambassadors across Banijay Entertainment who nurtured the finalists in developing their bold new formats from concept to pitch, with the aim of the winning ideas eventually landing on screen. The pair continue to oversee the operation, supported by a new wave of ambassadors dotted across the group’s 23-territory footprint.
The inaugural Banijay Launch was supported by the commission of a first-of-its-kind study with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, in partnership with Everywoman Studios. The findings of the ground-breaking study, which highlighted significant gender disparity in unscripted production across Brazil, U.K., U.S., and France, were unveiled in July, with the key findings available here.
Banijay Launch was inspired by the Propelle program, a female-focused accelerator initiative created and developed in 2020 by Everywoman Studios’ CEO, Abby Greensfelder. At Banijay Entertainment, the initiative capitalises on the infrastructure and expertise of Creative Networks, its central unscripted content department co-led by Townley and Lucas Green, Chief Content Officer, Operations.
Comments Off on Original French Comedy Format Liars Club to Launch on Prime Video
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces a new comedy format, Liars Club, produced by Endemol France exclusively for Prime Video.
In Liars Club, five celebrity duos compete in a riotous game of truth and lies. Each pair must use their acting skills and powers of persuasion to convince the others of their honesty, as only one duo will be telling the truth each round. The challenge is to separate the genuine from the fabricated, as the best liars fight for victory. The star-studded French cast includes Kad Merad and Olivier Baroux, Freddy Gladieux and Anis Rhali, Melha Bedia and Oulaya Amara, Ahmed Sylla and Hakim Jemili, and McFly and Carlito.
Jean-Louis Blot, CEO of Endemol France says: “Delivering high-energy entertainment is at the core of what we do, and Liars Club is the perfect example of that. We are positive this comedic format will delight viewers and complement our diverse catalogue.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development at Banijay Entertainment adds: “Liars Clubblends comedy, surprise and mischief into a delightful package. With a sharp and witty cast, paired with Endemol France’s expertise in delivering the next generation of superbrands, audiences can expect an unmissable series.”
Endemol France, part of Banijay France, is a non-scripted powerhouse having produced recent hits: Star Academy, which is co-produced with DMLS TV and is coming back for a third season this month; LEGO®Masters, Celebrity Hunted, LOL: Last One Laughing, and Drag Race France.
Banijay Entertainment boasts a globally renowned catalogue which includes superbrands like MasterChef, Big Brother and Survivor, and hit travellers like The Summit, Good Luck Guys, and Love Triangle. These titles are complemented by highly-anticipated streamer launches such as Bear Hunt and Building the Band (w/t) for Netflix, and Last One Laughing UK for Prime Video.
Comments Off on Banijay Entertainment Showcases Must-See Slate for MIPCOM 2024
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces this year’s standout titles across all genres for MIPCOM 2024, bolstering its position as the number one European studio.
Leading the charge is the re-imagining of iconic detective drama Bergerac; original new competition format, Three Are The Champions; Dutch reboot By Land, Air and Sea; and high-end travelogue series, Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain. Additionally, the powerhouse will celebrate its latest travelling formats launched last MIPCOM, including The Summit and Deal or No Deal Island.
This year’s premium UK scripted offering includes the revival of Bergerac for UKTV’s U&DRAMA and free streaming service, U; the much-awaited Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light for the BBC and Masterpiece PBS; Welsh crime drama The One that Got Away for S4C; We Go Again (w/t), a comedy drama for BBC Three and BBC iPlayer; and The Feud, a domestic thriller for Channel 5. From New Zealand is new returnable crime procedural A Remarkable Place to Die for TVNZ, ZDF, and Acorn TV, and crossing over to Europe, is Italy’s pop band drama Accidentally Famous for Sky Italia; Dutch thriller Elixir for NPO and New8, and French crime drama The Family Detective for TF1. Anticipated returners Marie Antoinette for Canal+, PBS, BBC Two and BBC iPlayer and SASRogue Heroes for BBC iPlayer and MGM+ will also be highlighted.
New formats making their international debut include the Dutch reboot of iconic entertainment programme By Land, Air and Sea, and Germany’s ratings success Three Are The Champions for RTL. Australia brings competitive renovation show Dream Home, insightful comedy travelogue Origin Odyssey, and music themed social experiment Headliners; the US launches new dating series The Never Ever Mets, and from the UK is strategic reality format, The Fortune Hotel. Building the next generation of superbrands, Banijay Entertainment will also highlight its successful travelling formats, including blockbuster adventure reality series The Summit; latest MasterChef iteration, Dessert Masters; and spin-off Deal or No Deal Island.
On the factual front, CNN Original travelogue series Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain will headline, alongside feature-length documentary, Atomic People for the BBC, as well as docu-series 7/7: Three Weeks in July for the BBC and BBC iPlayer. In addition, two feature-length premium documentaries from Scenery, a joint venture with Banijay Benelux, are available to buyers in Cannes: Front Row and LARA: The Man Who Tried to Save Colombia.
Cathy Payne, CEO Banijay Rights, says: “Our dynamic line-up for this year’s MIPCOM truly highlights the continued growth and global appeal of our catalogue. From riveting dramas such as Bergerac and Wolf Hall, to high-end factual series like Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain, we are eager to present a diverse and competitive slate that celebrates the power of storymaking and the outstanding talent behind our IP.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development and Lucas Green, Chief Content Officer, Operations at Banijay, add: “Our offering of distinctive and fresh formats coming from the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, UK, and the US, underscores our commitment to creating popular IP like Three Are The Champions, and evolving classic favourites like By Land, Air and Sea. The success of our new travelling hits, The Summitand Deal or No Deal Island, speaks to the creativity of our talented teams across the footprint, and illustrates our expertise in building the next generation of superbrands.”
The UK continues to offer strong premium scripted content, including the modern re-imagining of Bergerac, based on the original series created by Robert Banks Stewart and starring Damien Molony (The Split, Brassic),produced by Blacklight TV, a Banijay UK company. Blacklight TV also brings The One That Got Away, a thriller about a nurse’s murder that questions a historic conviction. Additionally, The Forge, recently acquired by Banijay UK, presents We Go Again (w/t), a new comedy drama from Janice Okoh about three stubbornly optimistic siblings with a dark secret.
Launching this year, Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, a Playground Entertainment and Company Pictures co-production, continues the Tudor saga of Thomas Cromwell’s complex journey. Additionally, The Feud, a Lonesome Pine Productions title in association with Banijay Rights and Northeast Screen, uncovers dark secrets through a family’s contentious home renovation, leading to a spiral of paranoia and fear.
Screentime New Zealand’s A Remarkable Place to Die, features a detective facing a series of intriguing local homicides, and from Groenlandia, a Banijay Italia company, and Sky Studios, comes Accidentally Famous, depicting the rise of Italian pop band 883. Elixir, a thriller from Banijay Benelux label Topkapi Films, along with NTR and BNNVARRA, revolves around a pharmaceutical scandal, while The Family Detective, from Banijay France’s Shine Fiction, brings a new crime drama about a family immersed in solving police cases. Finally, the group celebrates eagerly awaited second seasons of Marie Antoinette, The CANAL+ Creation Originale, produced by Capa Drama, Banijay Studios France and Beside Production; and SAS Rogue Heroes produced by Kudos (a Banijay UK company) and created, written and executive produced by Steven Knight.
Banijay Entertainment will showcase an array of formats available for adaptation globally. Three Are The Champions from EndemolShine Germany and Potatohead Pictures (part of Banijay Germany), has a second season greenlit, and spotlights three celebrities as they compete in challenges against top champions. Adrenaline-fuelled reboot By Land, Air and Sea from EndemolShine Nederland (part of Banijay Benelux) features contestants navigating creative obstacle courses using custom-built vehicles. Dream Home from Endemol Shine Australia for Channel 7 sees six teams face-off in an epic renovation showdown, while Origin Odyssey for SBS explores cultural roots in a new comedy travelogue, and Headliners for SBS, is a celebration of music and inclusion. Elsewhere, the US brings The Never Ever Mets from Bunim/Murray Productions (part of Banijay Americas), a returning series for OWN, where online dating comes to life. And from Tuesday’s Child, the producer behind hit competition reality series, LEGO Masters, is strategy gameshow The Fortune Hotel for ITV.
Banijay Entertainment’s travelling formats will be celebrated with the 9Network and Endemol Shine Australia original series, The Summit, which has travelled to three territories, including the US, with more to be announced; spin-off Deal Or No Deal Island by Endemol Shine North America, which has been renewed for by NBC; and Endemol Shine Australia’s MasterChef spinoff, Dessert Masters, which has recently launched in Brazil, showcasing top pastry chefs competing in high-stakes challenges.
Crossing over to factual with Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain from Hyphenate Media Group, takes viewers on a delectable culinary journey in Spain. Minnow Films’ Atomic People explores the human fallout from atomic bombs, while Slate Work’s 7/7: Three Weeks in July, explores the 2005 UK terrorist attacks in a compelling docu-series. Meanwhile, Front Row, from Scenery and Pretty Matches and Executive Produced by award-winning actor and producer Sarah Jessica Parker, highlights the resilience of Ukrainian ballet dancers during wartime where an unlikely friendship forms between a dancer and a front-line soldier, while LARA: The Man Who Tried to Save Colombia recounts the extraordinary reconciliation story behind Pablo Escobar’s most famous assassination.
These MIPCOM highlights complement Banijay Entertainment’s globally renowned catalogue, which includes superbrands like Big Brother and Peaky Blinders, new travelling hits such as The Fifty and Good Luck Guys,and its highly-anticipated streamer launches Bear Hunt, co-produced by Banijay UK’s Workerbee, The Natural Studios and Talkback for Netflix; Last One Laughing UK from Zeppotron and Initial for Prime Video, created byHitoshi Matsumotoand produced by Banijay Entertainment labels in 11 markets; Culte from Banijay France’s label Screenline Productions and 27 Tribe for Prime Video; Billionaire Island from Banijay Nordics’ label Rubicon;and the second series of The Rig, from Banijay UK’s Wild Mercury for Prime Video. The company will exhibit at C.20 at MIPCOM 2024.
Comments Off on DMLS TV Readies Original Musical Competition Sounds The Same
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment,today announcesthe launch of all-new primetime musical competition, Sounds the Same(Voix de Stars) for France 3. Created by DMLS TV, part of Banijay France, the exhilarating show will sit as part of the group’s burgeoning 2024 portfolio of fresh IP.
Sounds the Same will feature twelve contestants, from all walks of life, as they take the stage to mimic the voices of legendary artists, ranging from Claude François toCéline Dion. Their standout performances are scrutinised by a panel of renowned professionals, including Liane Foly, Jarry, VéronicDicaire, and Michaël Gregorio, before they determine who is crowned best vocal extraordinaire, taking home the grand prize of €10,000. Each judge will have the option to be isolated in a soundproof glass cube or shielded behind a screen, preventing them from seeing the performers so they can focus solely on the vocals. They will also receive three clues before each performance to help them with their evaluation. Adding a unique twist, 250 studio spectators will be wearing headphones, ensuring an immersive auditory experience. The thrilling competition will be hosted by French actress and presenter, Julia Vignali.
Mathieu Vergne, CEO of DMLS TV comments: “Sounds the Same brings musical competition to a whole new level.The audience and judges will be spellbound by the sheer talent and high calibre of the contestants. With thrilling performances, this show promises to deliver unforgettable entertainment forthe whole family.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Developmentadds: “We instantly recognised the immense potential of this format and backed it through the Creative Fund. This show highlights extraordinary vocal talent with a fresh and innovative twist to musical competitions, making it ideal for adaptation. With DMLS TV’s expertise in this genre, audiences can expect an unmissable series.”
Since joiningBanijay France in 2021, DMLS TVhas becomea go-to production company with access to the greatest French and international artists. Hit formats include Le Plus Grand Karaoké de France, Chanson Secrète (The Secret Song), La Chanson Challenge (The Celebrity Song Challenge) and DuosMystères (Mystery Duets). It is also behind the reboot of Popstarsavailable on Prime Video, a co-production with ALP.
Thisnew title will sit alongside Banijay Entertainment’s vast catalogue of hit travellers like The Summit, Good Luck Guys, and Love Triangle;superbrands MasterChef, Big Brother and Survivor, and highly-anticipatedstreamer launches Bear Hunt and Building a Band(w/t).
Comments Off on French label Banijay Production Media Lights Up All-New Primetime Gameshow
Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces the launch of all-new gameshow, Qui Restera dans la Lumière ? on France 2. Created and produced by Banijay Production Media, part of Banijay France, the show will sit as part of Banijay’s burgeoning 2024 portfolio of fresh IP.
Hosted by Bruno Guillon, the one-of-a-kind format promises to be a battle of wits and strategy, featuring 100 competitors vying for the chance to win up to €100,000. Qui Restera dans La Lumière ? is not just another quiz show; it introduces an innovative visual mechanism where contestants must navigate through general knowledge questions while attempting to keep their opponents in the dark. This unique format requires players to be tactical in selecting the difficulty of their questions; armed with nothing but the initial part of the statement to guide their choice.
Nagui, CEO of Banijay Production Media says: “Qui Restera dans la Lumière ? is a game of risk and reward, which promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, as the contestants navigate questions while strategically keeping their opponents on their toes. With our proven success with hit formats like Chacun son Tour, Votre Vie en Jeux and Tout le Monde Joue, as well as Bruno Guillon’s hosting expertise, we are positive the show will be a must-watch for viewers across France.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development at Banijay adds: “We’re seeing a huge amount of creativity coming out of France right now, and with entertainment formats continuing to be popular with broadcasters around the world, it’s perfect timing to add a new gameshow, with a unique visual USP, to our portfolio. With Nagui and Banijay Production Media’s commitment to high-quality entertainment series, we’re poised to see another exceptional production.”
Banijay Production Media, part of Banijay France, has built a strong foothold in music-based programming with the likes of successful long-running live music shows Taratata and Don’t Forget the Lyrics. The company has expanded its repertoire, and it now stands as a premium producer of game and entertainment programming.
Comments Off on Banijay Enters Exclusive Global Development Deal with The Traitors Creator, Marc Pos
Media and entertainment powerhouse, Banijay, today announces an exclusive global development deal with leading Dutch creator and producer, Marc Pos, through his independent label MPLab. Set to complement Banijay’s already impressive efforts in content creation, the partnership is concentrated on driving the development of new entertainment formats for its burgeoning 185k hours-strong portfolio.
As the multi-award-winning mastermind behind The Traitors (All3Media International), recently named Format of the Year by K7, Pos is an industry-renowned creative entrepreneur. With a career spanning TV, video, theatre, events and advertising, he has been celebrated globally as producer and director, most notably by the New York Festivals TV & Film Awards; Emmys; BAFTAs; the Dutch Gouden Televizier-Rings; Dutch Directors Guild Awards, as well as via a host of other industry honours. Running his own label POSVIDEO since 2015, most recently the company worked with IDTV (an All3Media company) on a special collaboration.
Pos, via his label MPLab – a growing collective of highly esteemed creatives including format developer, Kirsten Jan van Nieuwenhuijzen, who is exclusively affiliated with the company – will now team with Banijay’s Chief Content Officer, Development, James Townley, to devise original non-scripted formats with broad international appeal. As part of the partnership, the rights to all IP created will sit with the leading global group and be available to its growing portfolio of production labels, and distribution engine Banijay Rights.
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development, Banijay: “Marc’s creative talents are irrefutable, and we feel fortunate to be welcoming him to the Banijay fold. The deserved success of The Traitors has enthralled the industry and illustrated, with our own recent travelling hits Good Luck Guys, The Summit and The Fifty, that good shows are still able to draw global audiences. As K7’s ‘Distributor of the Year’, we feel we’re the perfect partner for MPLab’s ambitions, and look forward to collaborating on original IP that influences the cultural zeitgeist.”
Marc Pos, Founder, MPLab: “Banijay is the home of the superbrand. With a vast production network and leading distribution unit, it is the perfect testing ground for new formats, and in partnering with James and the group’s producers globally, I look forward to exploring, and rolling out, an ambitious development slate internationally. Here’s to creating the next ‘ones to watch’.”
Pos is also renowned for directing season one in of Banijay’s Big Brother in the Netherlands; Prinsengrachtconcert (a classical festival on Amsterdam’s canals); Maestro; and the Popsecret concerts with Robbie Williams and Alicia Keys. Additionally, he worked on 2021’s Eurovision Song Contest, and enjoyed success through his ad agency Brand New Telly and event company, Kingcanary. A true entrepreneur, his credits outside TV include award-winning Nike campaign, Nike Panna Knockout, and theatre show Resilience,which premiered in 2023. With the likeminded, entrepreneurial team at Banijay, he will now contribute to the media and entertainment powerhouse’s pipeline from which titles like The Summit (EndemolShine Australia), Shaolin Heroes (Metronome), The Fifty (Banijay Productions France), and Deal or No Deal Island (EndemolShine North America) have recently been born.
Coinciding with International Women’s Day, media and entertainment powerhouse, Banijay, today confirms Amber Kane and Emily Wilson as joint winners of its inaugural Banijay Launch program. Kane, a freelancer from Australia, scooped the prize for her high-octane variety talent concept, Double Act; and Wilson, for her original psychological dating format, Can’t Buy My Love. Selecting two owing to the fierce competition amongst the four finalists, the judges commended both entries as “fantastic ideas with significant international appeal.”
Designed to exclusively support women creators with promising unscripted formats, Banijay Launch was unveiled at MIPCOM 2023 and received an extraordinary 500+ applications from 30+ territories. Spanning Australia (Amber Kane), UK (Emily Wilson), France (Yasmina Salmandjee), and Denmark (Lisbet Winther), the respective finalists assembled in London on Tuesday 6 March for the grand finale, where they pitched their ideas to an esteemed jury comprising Endemol Shine North America CEO, Sharon Levy; Banijay Chief Content Officer, Development, James Townley; Banijay Chief Business Officer, Fred Balmary; Banijay Iberia CEO, Pilar Blasco; and Founder and CEO of Everywoman Studios, Abby Greensfelder. But there could only be… two winners!
Kane’s idea was credited by the judges for its brilliant reality elements, highly-clipable offering, and the way in which it taps into the zeitgeist of the “mash-up” in a spectacular way to create a new competition show. Elsewhere, Wilson’s was enjoyed by judges for its twist and turns, strong format pillars, brandable moments, and original “gifting” concept everyone can identify with.
Sharon Levy, CEO, Endemol Shine North America comments: “Banijay Launch was envisioned as a bridge for women to gain access to our industry, and based on the sheer volume and quality of pitches we received, its time was long overdue. Mirroring the global reach of Banijay, we heard from applicants far and wide, and I hope the result illustrates just how strong the four finalists were. The two fantastic women who share the ‘winner’ title had unbelievably competitive ideas that were well-pitched, original, and highly sellable. The ambassadors and Banijay at-large feel fortunate to continue collaborating with them to bring their amazing concepts to life. We are all so proud to have played a role in opening the door to the next generation of talent, and with the study results from the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media imminent, we hope to keep doing more to foster a wider community of women in non-scripted.”
Amber Kane says: “I still can’t quite believe it. I had been working on Double Act for six years and it always felt taking it to screen may be impossible given the continued challenges for women in the content industry. However, Banijay Launch truly opened the door for me. Working with the talented Amelia Fisk, I have not only strengthened my idea but also my confidence in pitching, and I look forward to continuing to partner with her, and Banijay’s Creative Networks, in hopefully landing my idea on-screen. I am hugely thankful for the opportunity and feel inspired to keep going with creating great formats for the world to enjoy.”
Emily Wilson says: “As a huge reality TV fan, it was always my dream to create my very own unscripted format that could transcend audiences across the globe. In Can’t Buy My Love I feel I have crafted an original show that I truly believe has all the elements for success, and with the help of Banijay, and my brilliant mentor Claire O’Donohoe, could tap into the buyer demand for social experiments everywhere. I’m hugely grateful for this life-changing experience and look forward to seeing where this opportunity can take me in a career capacity.”
Addressing gender equality by discovering and incubating untapped women talent, Banijay Launch was initiated by Levy, co-led by Townley, and supported by the group’s network of creative ambassadors who nurtured the finalists in developing their bold new formats from concept to pitch, with the aim of the winning ideas eventually landing on screen. It was inspired by the Propelle program, a female-focused accelerator initiative created and developed in 2020 by Everywoman Studios’ CEO, Abby Greensfelder. Both Kane and Wilson will now work with their ambassadors and Banijay’s Creative Networks to develop their ideas further, and the group hopes to unveil both ideas fully at launch.
Coinciding with the program, Banijay Americas announced the commission of a first-of-its-kind study with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, in partnership with Everywoman Studios. The findings of the ground-breaking study, which investigates women’s inclusion in creative leadership roles in unscripted production across Brazil, U.K., U.S., and France, will be unveiled at an event in Los Angeles in May. Further news will follow in the coming weeks.