Press release
Sydney, 28 October 2013: Two of the world’s leading content companies have formed a new partnership to produce BBC Worldwide’s general entertainment formats for the Australian market.
The multi-year deal will see FremantleMedia Australia (FMA) working alongside BBC Worldwide Australia & New Zealand to provide programming from the BBC’s world-class entertainment catalogue.
The production partnership includes current library and future general entertainment formats.
Jon Penn, Managing Director of BBC Worldwide Australia & New Zealand , said: ‘There is huge potential in our entertainment formats catalogue but, in order to fully exploit this, we needed a partner who could bring excellent production skills and the ability to create multi-platform brands to the mix. FremantleMedia Australia has a proven track record in both these areas, with shows like Australia’s Got Talent, the X Factor, Project Runway and Grand Designs, all of which are well produced and have a strong connection with audiences beyond the TV screen.
‘This deal will enable BBC Worldwide to grow its content business in Australia, which in turn will provide more exciting commercial opportunities off screen. This is a key plank of our strategy going forward and I am delighted that we have found the best partner to help us to realise this.’
Ian Hogg, FMA Regional CEO Australia/Asia Pacific, said: ‘FremantleMedia and BBC Worldwide have a shared DNA for creative excellence. We very much look forward to working with the BBC Worldwide ANZ leadership team. This is a powerful partnership that will be transformational for both companies.’