Hulu’s gathering a cast of confident, sexy singles who are all looking for love. The catch? Every single one of them is a virgin.
The streamer has officially ordered Virgin Island, a new reality dating series that will follow a group of virgins who descend on an island resort for a summer of love and laughter as they all search for “the one.”
More from TVLineAndrew McCarthy, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore and Others Revisit 'Brat Pack' Ignominy in Hulu's Brats TrailerElisabeth Moss and Yumna Marwan Take Us Inside The Veil's Episode 5 Imogen/Adilah ThrowdownClipped Review: Hulu's Tawdry Tale of...
The streamer has officially ordered Virgin Island, a new reality dating series that will follow a group of virgins who descend on an island resort for a summer of love and laughter as they all search for “the one.”
More from TVLineAndrew McCarthy, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore and Others Revisit 'Brat Pack' Ignominy in Hulu's Brats TrailerElisabeth Moss and Yumna Marwan Take Us Inside The Veil's Episode 5 Imogen/Adilah ThrowdownClipped Review: Hulu's Tawdry Tale of...
- 5/22/2024
- by Nick Caruso
- TVLine.com
“The market is saturated and no one would deny that,” the BBC’s natural history boss admitted today, as she explained how she is combatting this with Game of Thrones-style series Kingdom.
Sreya Biswas said the “pretty bad downturn” has hit “expensive” natural history landmarks as much as other genres in production ecosystems around the world.
Commissioners and program makers therefore need to keep thinking about how to reinvent the wheel, she added at the Creative Cities Convention.
“Production costs are huge so we need to think about what a landmark is, how we want to make it and how to interrogate new technology and stories,” said Biswas. “We need to be clever about how we think about what to make next.”
Coupled with the downturn and rising costs, Biswas pointed to the issue of natural history lacking ‘bingeability’, which can be a turn off for the streamers or VoD platforms like BBC iPlayer.
Sreya Biswas said the “pretty bad downturn” has hit “expensive” natural history landmarks as much as other genres in production ecosystems around the world.
Commissioners and program makers therefore need to keep thinking about how to reinvent the wheel, she added at the Creative Cities Convention.
“Production costs are huge so we need to think about what a landmark is, how we want to make it and how to interrogate new technology and stories,” said Biswas. “We need to be clever about how we think about what to make next.”
Coupled with the downturn and rising costs, Biswas pointed to the issue of natural history lacking ‘bingeability’, which can be a turn off for the streamers or VoD platforms like BBC iPlayer.
- 4/24/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC has unveiled a landmark natural history series on insects as its head of unscripted brands the notion that the streamers are taking over “utter bollocks.”
The Traitors commissioner Kate Phillips talked tough on the BBC’s place in the ecosystem at Creative Cities Convention, citing research that BBC iPlayer is watched by more people in the UK than Disney+, Prime Video and Netflix combined. “This idea that broadcasters are irrelevant and streamers are taking over is utter bollocks,” she said. “More than nine out of 10 adults access the BBC in the UK.”
Notably, Phillips was speaking a session after Grant Mansfield, the EP behind Disney+’s most-watched natural history series of all time, A Real Bug’s Life, who had called on indies to embrace opportunities in the States.
The BBC unveiled Hidden Planet, a follow up to David Attenborough’s 2005 series Life in the Undergrowth, although the 97-year-old...
The Traitors commissioner Kate Phillips talked tough on the BBC’s place in the ecosystem at Creative Cities Convention, citing research that BBC iPlayer is watched by more people in the UK than Disney+, Prime Video and Netflix combined. “This idea that broadcasters are irrelevant and streamers are taking over is utter bollocks,” she said. “More than nine out of 10 adults access the BBC in the UK.”
Notably, Phillips was speaking a session after Grant Mansfield, the EP behind Disney+’s most-watched natural history series of all time, A Real Bug’s Life, who had called on indies to embrace opportunities in the States.
The BBC unveiled Hidden Planet, a follow up to David Attenborough’s 2005 series Life in the Undergrowth, although the 97-year-old...
- 4/24/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
“Most British producers will find themselves very welcome in America.”
That is the verdict of Grant Mansfield, the head of A Real Bug’s Life and Tiny World producer Plimsoll, who, along with ITV Studios boss Julian Bellamy, attempted to paint a glass-half-full portrait of the state of the UK production industry amid doom and gloom proclamations at the Creative Cities Convention.
Mansfield said he “understands the negative mood music” but posited that “the transformational thing [for UK producers] is international,” as he revealed that 90% of Plimsoll’s commissions come from outside the UK.
“The whole business of what your market is has become more porous and most British producers wil find themselves very welcome in America,” said Mansfield. “They are incredibly respectful and knowledgeable of the UK market.”
Mansfield, who was CEO of Zodiak USA before launching Plimsoll, joked that producers should be aware of American buyers’ “there is no such thing...
That is the verdict of Grant Mansfield, the head of A Real Bug’s Life and Tiny World producer Plimsoll, who, along with ITV Studios boss Julian Bellamy, attempted to paint a glass-half-full portrait of the state of the UK production industry amid doom and gloom proclamations at the Creative Cities Convention.
Mansfield said he “understands the negative mood music” but posited that “the transformational thing [for UK producers] is international,” as he revealed that 90% of Plimsoll’s commissions come from outside the UK.
“The whole business of what your market is has become more porous and most British producers wil find themselves very welcome in America,” said Mansfield. “They are incredibly respectful and knowledgeable of the UK market.”
Mansfield, who was CEO of Zodiak USA before launching Plimsoll, joked that producers should be aware of American buyers’ “there is no such thing...
- 4/24/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
ITV and UK-based natural history producer Plimsoll Productions, an ITV Studios company, have teamed on Shark! Celebrity Infested Waters, a reality series that is not for the celebrity faint-of-heart.
The entertainment and wildlife crossover format will dare a group of ocean-phobic celebrities to confront their greatest fear – sharks. “Throughout their adrenaline-fueled, challenge-heavy journey in the Bahamas – the shark capital of the world – these A-listers will push past their limits to come nose to nose with nature’s ‘villains,’ according to the official synopsis. “Their firsthand experiences will provide immeasurable excitement and new perspective; they’ll come to appreciate sharks’ valuable place on the food chain and in our ecosystem, recognizing that a world devoid of these notoriously terrifying creatures is downright frightening.”
The series is slated to air next year to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Oscar-winning film Jaws. Celebrity casting is currently underway,...
The entertainment and wildlife crossover format will dare a group of ocean-phobic celebrities to confront their greatest fear – sharks. “Throughout their adrenaline-fueled, challenge-heavy journey in the Bahamas – the shark capital of the world – these A-listers will push past their limits to come nose to nose with nature’s ‘villains,’ according to the official synopsis. “Their firsthand experiences will provide immeasurable excitement and new perspective; they’ll come to appreciate sharks’ valuable place on the food chain and in our ecosystem, recognizing that a world devoid of these notoriously terrifying creatures is downright frightening.”
The series is slated to air next year to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Oscar-winning film Jaws. Celebrity casting is currently underway,...
- 2/26/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
National Geographic is bringing back two of its Disney+ originals for second seasons.
The company has renewed Limitless with Chris Hemsworth and A Real Bug’s Life.
Limitless with Chris Hemsworth premiered in 2022 and follows the Extraction star as he explores secrets of improving our lives.
In season one, Hemsworth pushed the limits of his body and mind to discover how fasting can unlock the body’s anti-aging power, how to manage stress so it doesn’t kill you, and how exposure to extreme temperatures can trigger our bodies’ own defenses against the killer diseases of old age, all in a quest to live a longer, healthier life.
In the second season, he travels through Nepal, Italy, Australia, and the United Kingdom in four more challenges.
It comes from Darren Aronofsky’s Protozoa Pictures and Jane Root’s Nutopia. The pair exec produce alongside Hemsworth as well as Ari Handel, Tom Watt-Smith,...
The company has renewed Limitless with Chris Hemsworth and A Real Bug’s Life.
Limitless with Chris Hemsworth premiered in 2022 and follows the Extraction star as he explores secrets of improving our lives.
In season one, Hemsworth pushed the limits of his body and mind to discover how fasting can unlock the body’s anti-aging power, how to manage stress so it doesn’t kill you, and how exposure to extreme temperatures can trigger our bodies’ own defenses against the killer diseases of old age, all in a quest to live a longer, healthier life.
In the second season, he travels through Nepal, Italy, Australia, and the United Kingdom in four more challenges.
It comes from Darren Aronofsky’s Protozoa Pictures and Jane Root’s Nutopia. The pair exec produce alongside Hemsworth as well as Ari Handel, Tom Watt-Smith,...
- 2/8/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Chris Hemsworth will continue testing his phyical and mental boundaries for Nat Geo.
The Disney-owned company has renewed Limitless With Chris Hemsworth for a second season, which like the first will stream on Disney+. The formal pickup comes more than a year after the first season debuted in November 2022.
Nat Geo and Disney+ have also renewed A Real Bug’s Life, the (partially staged) nature series that uses the 1998 Pixar movie A Bug’s Life as its inspiration. That pickup was much quicker, coming two weeks after the series premiered. Nat Geo announced both pickups during its time at the Television Critics Association press tour on Thursday.
Season one of Limitless followed Hemsworth as he explored — using himself as a test subject — scientific developments in helping people live longer, healthier lives. Season two will focus on “a series of physical and mental obstaclesthat people across the world face daily: mental agility, pain,...
The Disney-owned company has renewed Limitless With Chris Hemsworth for a second season, which like the first will stream on Disney+. The formal pickup comes more than a year after the first season debuted in November 2022.
Nat Geo and Disney+ have also renewed A Real Bug’s Life, the (partially staged) nature series that uses the 1998 Pixar movie A Bug’s Life as its inspiration. That pickup was much quicker, coming two weeks after the series premiered. Nat Geo announced both pickups during its time at the Television Critics Association press tour on Thursday.
Season one of Limitless followed Hemsworth as he explored — using himself as a test subject — scientific developments in helping people live longer, healthier lives. Season two will focus on “a series of physical and mental obstaclesthat people across the world face daily: mental agility, pain,...
- 2/8/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Horror studio Blumhouse and natural history producer Plimsoll Productions have teamed up on a new factual series.
The two companies are developing Nightmares of Nature, a series that follows animal heroes battling to survive the true-life horrors only real nature can provide. The idea is to blend natural history filmmaking through a horror lens, a place where trees bleed, zombie snails dwell and vampire fish reign supreme.
Blumhouse is behind Amazon’s The Horror of Dolores Roach and films including Get Out and M3gan, while ITV-owned Plimsoll is behind series such as Hostile Planet, Tiny World and Night on Earth.
No network or platform is currently attached.
Nightmares of Nature is produced by Blumhouse Television and Plimsoll Productions. For Blumhouse, Jason Blum, Chris McCumber and Gretchen Palek are executive producers. For Plimsoll, Grant Mansfield, Alan Eyres, Tom Hugh-Jones and Martha Holmes are executive producers.
“Plimsoll is best...
The two companies are developing Nightmares of Nature, a series that follows animal heroes battling to survive the true-life horrors only real nature can provide. The idea is to blend natural history filmmaking through a horror lens, a place where trees bleed, zombie snails dwell and vampire fish reign supreme.
Blumhouse is behind Amazon’s The Horror of Dolores Roach and films including Get Out and M3gan, while ITV-owned Plimsoll is behind series such as Hostile Planet, Tiny World and Night on Earth.
No network or platform is currently attached.
Nightmares of Nature is produced by Blumhouse Television and Plimsoll Productions. For Blumhouse, Jason Blum, Chris McCumber and Gretchen Palek are executive producers. For Plimsoll, Grant Mansfield, Alan Eyres, Tom Hugh-Jones and Martha Holmes are executive producers.
“Plimsoll is best...
- 7/17/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
ITV Studios has forged a Global Partnerships division combining formats and finished tape, helmed by the newly-promoted Ruth Berry, who detailed her new role, the Plimsoll acquisition and Fast opportunities.
Berry said the move to rebrand Global Distribution and Global Entertainment is “emblematic of the inspiration for us to partner in a broader, deeper way with more content across our portfolio.”
“There is a fair amount of overlap in our clients looking at both formats and scripted,” Berry told Mip TV.
“If we can bring that all together we can really focus these conversations and look at how we can leverage the breadth and scale of our portfolio with what our buyers need.”
Berry, who now oversees a 90,000-strong catalog with more than 250 formats, took on the newly combined finished tape/formats role late last year, at which point Arjan Pomper departed the business. Soon after, former Film and TV...
Berry said the move to rebrand Global Distribution and Global Entertainment is “emblematic of the inspiration for us to partner in a broader, deeper way with more content across our portfolio.”
“There is a fair amount of overlap in our clients looking at both formats and scripted,” Berry told Mip TV.
“If we can bring that all together we can really focus these conversations and look at how we can leverage the breadth and scale of our portfolio with what our buyers need.”
Berry, who now oversees a 90,000-strong catalog with more than 250 formats, took on the newly combined finished tape/formats role late last year, at which point Arjan Pomper departed the business. Soon after, former Film and TV...
- 4/18/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple TV+ just released a gorgeous trailer for the docuseries Big Beasts. Two-time Emmy Award nominee – and everyone’s favorite Loki – Tom Hiddleston narrates the 10-part documentary series premiering on Friday, April 21, 2023, one day prior to Earth Day.
The docuseries will launch with the release of the first two episodes, followed by two new episodes every Friday leading up to its May 19th finale.
Big Beasts is executive produced by Emmy Award winner Tom Hugh-Jones (Planet Earth II), Emmy Award nominee Grant Mansfield (Hostile Planet), and two-time Emmy Award nominee Martha Holmes. The docuseries is produced by Plimsoll Productions.
Apple TV+ released this description of the documentary series:
From the acclaimed creative team of the Apple TV+ Award-winning docuseries Tiny World comes Big Beasts. Filmed over two years, the series takes audiences on an epic journey around the globe, from freezing poles to tropical rainforests, to meet nature’s most captivating giants.
The docuseries will launch with the release of the first two episodes, followed by two new episodes every Friday leading up to its May 19th finale.
Big Beasts is executive produced by Emmy Award winner Tom Hugh-Jones (Planet Earth II), Emmy Award nominee Grant Mansfield (Hostile Planet), and two-time Emmy Award nominee Martha Holmes. The docuseries is produced by Plimsoll Productions.
Apple TV+ released this description of the documentary series:
From the acclaimed creative team of the Apple TV+ Award-winning docuseries Tiny World comes Big Beasts. Filmed over two years, the series takes audiences on an epic journey around the globe, from freezing poles to tropical rainforests, to meet nature’s most captivating giants.
- 3/30/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Exclusive: Apple TV+ is continuing its natural history push.
The streamer is launching new wildlife series Big Beasts, narrated by Tom Hiddleston.
The series, which has been in the works for two years, takes viewers around the globe, from freezing poles to tropical rainforests, to meet nature’s most captivating giants.
It features massive species filmed across 17 countries, including the gray whale, the elephant seal, the giant otter, the gorilla, the hippopotamus, the brown bear, the ostrich, the orangutan, the tiger and the polar bear. Viewers will see that it’s not easy being big—the larger the animal, the greater the challenges they face.
Big Beasts comes from the creative team of Apple’s Tiny World, which launched in 2020 and was narrated by Paul Rudd. It is produced by ITV-owned Plimsoll Productions with Tom Hugh-Jones (Planet Earth II), Grant Mansfield (Hostile Planet) and Martha Holmes (Life) exec producing.
The streamer is launching new wildlife series Big Beasts, narrated by Tom Hiddleston.
The series, which has been in the works for two years, takes viewers around the globe, from freezing poles to tropical rainforests, to meet nature’s most captivating giants.
It features massive species filmed across 17 countries, including the gray whale, the elephant seal, the giant otter, the gorilla, the hippopotamus, the brown bear, the ostrich, the orangutan, the tiger and the polar bear. Viewers will see that it’s not easy being big—the larger the animal, the greater the challenges they face.
Big Beasts comes from the creative team of Apple’s Tiny World, which launched in 2020 and was narrated by Paul Rudd. It is produced by ITV-owned Plimsoll Productions with Tom Hugh-Jones (Planet Earth II), Grant Mansfield (Hostile Planet) and Martha Holmes (Life) exec producing.
- 3/30/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Plimsoll Productions, the prominent company specialized in wildlife and natural history programming now owned by ITV Studios, is bolstering its top management ranks.
The announcement follows the recent acquisition of Plimsoll by U.K. broadcaster ITV in a deal that valued the company at £130 million ($160 million).
The prolific U.K. outfit – which is coming off its busiest year ever with 20 shows in production, including National Geographic series “The Ascent” with Alex Honnold – has promoted Jonathan Jackson, its former chief financial officer, to the role of COO, alongside his CFO role, while production executive Lucy Bilson has been elevated to head of production.
Jackson joined Plimsoll four years ago after serving as group managing director at U.K. distributor Drg (now rebranded as Nent Studios), where he boosted growth. He has also held senior financial roles at BBC Studios and Channel 4. Jackson, who will continue to report directly to Plimsoll CEO and founder Grant Mansfield,...
The announcement follows the recent acquisition of Plimsoll by U.K. broadcaster ITV in a deal that valued the company at £130 million ($160 million).
The prolific U.K. outfit – which is coming off its busiest year ever with 20 shows in production, including National Geographic series “The Ascent” with Alex Honnold – has promoted Jonathan Jackson, its former chief financial officer, to the role of COO, alongside his CFO role, while production executive Lucy Bilson has been elevated to head of production.
Jackson joined Plimsoll four years ago after serving as group managing director at U.K. distributor Drg (now rebranded as Nent Studios), where he boosted growth. He has also held senior financial roles at BBC Studios and Channel 4. Jackson, who will continue to report directly to Plimsoll CEO and founder Grant Mansfield,...
- 3/27/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Natural history producer Plimsoll Productions has appointed leading formats and distribution executive Andrea Jackson as its new creative director of factual entertainment.
Jackson will report directly to CEO Grant Mansfield, and will be joining the Plimsoll executive leadership group. In her new role, she will develop, package and serve as executive producer across formats and factual content. She has a long history with the company, have transitioned from her role at Magnify Media, the independent distribution house she founded, led and sold to Plimsoll in 2020.
Establishing Magnify Media in 2015, Jackson collaborated with rights owners and worked across unscripted and scripted genres and formats to license to networks and streamers throughout the global market, including Netflix, Disney+, Discovery+, Svt, TV2 Denmark, Sbs Broadcasting, Nippon, BBC, France Television, Tvnz and Foxtel.
As part of Plimsoll Productions’ acquisition by ITV Studios, Magnify Media will fully integrate into the ITV Studios distribution business in 2023.
Prior to launching Magnify Media,...
Jackson will report directly to CEO Grant Mansfield, and will be joining the Plimsoll executive leadership group. In her new role, she will develop, package and serve as executive producer across formats and factual content. She has a long history with the company, have transitioned from her role at Magnify Media, the independent distribution house she founded, led and sold to Plimsoll in 2020.
Establishing Magnify Media in 2015, Jackson collaborated with rights owners and worked across unscripted and scripted genres and formats to license to networks and streamers throughout the global market, including Netflix, Disney+, Discovery+, Svt, TV2 Denmark, Sbs Broadcasting, Nippon, BBC, France Television, Tvnz and Foxtel.
As part of Plimsoll Productions’ acquisition by ITV Studios, Magnify Media will fully integrate into the ITV Studios distribution business in 2023.
Prior to launching Magnify Media,...
- 1/17/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
The UK’s Plimsoll Productions has appointed formats and distribution veteran Andrea Jackson as Creative Director of Factual Entertainment.
This makes her Plimsoll’s lead for developing, packaging and executive producing formats and factual entertainment content.
In her new role, Jackson will report to Plimsoll CEO Grant Mansfield and join the ITV Studios-owned company’s executive leadership group.
Plimsoll bought Jackson’s unscripted distribution business Magnify Media in 2020, five years after she established the company.
Magnify had continued to operate independently following the sale but is now set to “fully integrate” into the ITV Studios distribution operation. The distributor’s key titles include Fox’s Malika: The Lion Queen, BBC One’s My Unique B & B and ABC’s The Women of 9/11.
Jackson’s previous roles include eight years as Managing Director of Drg, which sold to Mtg before its catalogue was sold on to All3Media. She also co-founded...
This makes her Plimsoll’s lead for developing, packaging and executive producing formats and factual entertainment content.
In her new role, Jackson will report to Plimsoll CEO Grant Mansfield and join the ITV Studios-owned company’s executive leadership group.
Plimsoll bought Jackson’s unscripted distribution business Magnify Media in 2020, five years after she established the company.
Magnify had continued to operate independently following the sale but is now set to “fully integrate” into the ITV Studios distribution operation. The distributor’s key titles include Fox’s Malika: The Lion Queen, BBC One’s My Unique B & B and ABC’s The Women of 9/11.
Jackson’s previous roles include eight years as Managing Director of Drg, which sold to Mtg before its catalogue was sold on to All3Media. She also co-founded...
- 1/17/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Plimsoll Productions, the company behind series such as Apple’s Tiny World and Disney+’s James Cameron-executive produced and Benedict Cumberbatch-narrated Super/Natural, has hired National Geographic’s Alan Eyres to run its U.S. arm.
Eyres spent the last ten years as SVP of Unscripted Production and Development for the National Geographic Global Channels and was instrumental in launching the Nat Geo tile on Disney+.
He becomes head of Plimsoll USA, reporting to founder and CEO Grant Mansfield.
It marks the first major hire after British broadcaster ITV acquired the company, best known for natural history programming, for 126M earlier this summer, and comes after Saul Goldberg, who previously headed up U.S. operations at the company left to join CAA as a UK-based agent.
Eyres has worked with Plimsoll on a number of series and docs including serving as network programming executive for Hostile Planet,...
Eyres spent the last ten years as SVP of Unscripted Production and Development for the National Geographic Global Channels and was instrumental in launching the Nat Geo tile on Disney+.
He becomes head of Plimsoll USA, reporting to founder and CEO Grant Mansfield.
It marks the first major hire after British broadcaster ITV acquired the company, best known for natural history programming, for 126M earlier this summer, and comes after Saul Goldberg, who previously headed up U.S. operations at the company left to join CAA as a UK-based agent.
Eyres has worked with Plimsoll on a number of series and docs including serving as network programming executive for Hostile Planet,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
‘Allo Insiders, Jesse Whittock here. The sun is scorching out there in London today (I promise you this does happen occasionally), but I’ve stayed just cool enough to bring you a rundown of this week’s biggest stories.
Mountains Of Content In Canada
Rockie return: A bleary-eyed Max Goldbart here fresh from touching down at Heathrow Airport after an action-packed three days at the Banff World Media Festival. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Rockie Mountains (in the towering castle-like Fairmont Hotel) some of the most important people in the world of TV both in front of and behind the camera spent the early part of this week taking meetings and speaking to the interested public on all things television. As is customary these days, talk of Netflix’s travails dominated the chatter — it really was ever-present in the buzzy mid-panel conversations — and the streamer’s Head of...
Mountains Of Content In Canada
Rockie return: A bleary-eyed Max Goldbart here fresh from touching down at Heathrow Airport after an action-packed three days at the Banff World Media Festival. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Rockie Mountains (in the towering castle-like Fairmont Hotel) some of the most important people in the world of TV both in front of and behind the camera spent the early part of this week taking meetings and speaking to the interested public on all things television. As is customary these days, talk of Netflix’s travails dominated the chatter — it really was ever-present in the buzzy mid-panel conversations — and the streamer’s Head of...
- 6/17/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
The UK’s ITV has agreed to acquire a majority interest of 79.5 in Hostile Planet and Tiny World producer Plimsoll Productions for approximately £103.5M (126M), giving the company an enterprise value of £131M (159.7M).
The stake is being acquired from private equity group Ldc, which made a multi-million dollar minority share investment in Plimsoll in 2019.
Plimsoll, founded by Grant Mansfield — a former ITV factual boss — in Bristol in 2013, is the world’s largest independent producer of natural history programs and focuses on making premium factual. The BAFTA, Emmy and Oscar-winning firm has produced hundreds of hours of content, which has traveled to nearly 200 countries.
Among its credits are Tiny World and Giant World for AppleTV+; Hostile Planet and Supernatural Planet for Disney; Night On Earth and Animal for Netflix; and the upcoming series A Year On Planet Earth for new parent ITV, Tencent in China, Fox Nation in the U.
The stake is being acquired from private equity group Ldc, which made a multi-million dollar minority share investment in Plimsoll in 2019.
Plimsoll, founded by Grant Mansfield — a former ITV factual boss — in Bristol in 2013, is the world’s largest independent producer of natural history programs and focuses on making premium factual. The BAFTA, Emmy and Oscar-winning firm has produced hundreds of hours of content, which has traveled to nearly 200 countries.
Among its credits are Tiny World and Giant World for AppleTV+; Hostile Planet and Supernatural Planet for Disney; Night On Earth and Animal for Netflix; and the upcoming series A Year On Planet Earth for new parent ITV, Tencent in China, Fox Nation in the U.
- 6/14/2022
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
U.K. broadcaster ITV has completed its acquisition of leading natural history program producer Plimsoll Productions by taking a majority 79.5 stake.
The deal, which was revealed by Variety last week, values Plimsoll at £131 million (161 million) and ITV will pay £104 million (127 million) in cash for the stake.
Founded in Bristol in 2013, the BAFTA, Emmy and Academy award winning Plimsoll has produced hundreds of hours of content including “Tiny World” and “Giant World” for Apple+; “Hostile Planet” and “Supernatural Planet” for Disney; “Night on Earth” and “Animal” for Netflix and the upcoming series, “A Year on Planet Earth” for ITV, Tencent in China, Fox Nation in the U.S. and Ard Group in Germany.
Under the leadership of founder Grant Mansfield, the Plimsoll team includes chief creative officer Martha Holmes, creative director Tom Hugh-Jones, Karen Plumb as head of factual entertainment; and Richard Klein, former head of ITV Factual, and head of documentaries at the BBC.
The deal, which was revealed by Variety last week, values Plimsoll at £131 million (161 million) and ITV will pay £104 million (127 million) in cash for the stake.
Founded in Bristol in 2013, the BAFTA, Emmy and Academy award winning Plimsoll has produced hundreds of hours of content including “Tiny World” and “Giant World” for Apple+; “Hostile Planet” and “Supernatural Planet” for Disney; “Night on Earth” and “Animal” for Netflix and the upcoming series, “A Year on Planet Earth” for ITV, Tencent in China, Fox Nation in the U.S. and Ard Group in Germany.
Under the leadership of founder Grant Mansfield, the Plimsoll team includes chief creative officer Martha Holmes, creative director Tom Hugh-Jones, Karen Plumb as head of factual entertainment; and Richard Klein, former head of ITV Factual, and head of documentaries at the BBC.
- 6/14/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
U.K. TV giant ITV said Tuesday that it has agreed to acquire a majority stake of 79.5 percent in natural history TV program producer Plimsoll Productions for approximately £103.5 million (126 million) in cash.
The deal values Plimsoll at an enterprise value of £131 million (150 million). Founded in Bristol in 2013, it has produced hundreds of hours of content watched and sold in nearly 200 countries.
“Through Plimsoll Productions, as a studio, we can continue to capitalize on the growing demand for natural history and factual programming,” ITV CEO Carolyn McCall said.
The producer is behind series including Tiny World and Giant World for Apple+; Hostile Planet and Supernatural Planet for Disney; Night on Earth and Animal for Netflix and the upcoming landmark series A Year on Planet Earth for ITV, Tencent in China, Fox Nation in the U.S. and Ard Group in Germany.
“This acquisition is a...
U.K. TV giant ITV said Tuesday that it has agreed to acquire a majority stake of 79.5 percent in natural history TV program producer Plimsoll Productions for approximately £103.5 million (126 million) in cash.
The deal values Plimsoll at an enterprise value of £131 million (150 million). Founded in Bristol in 2013, it has produced hundreds of hours of content watched and sold in nearly 200 countries.
“Through Plimsoll Productions, as a studio, we can continue to capitalize on the growing demand for natural history and factual programming,” ITV CEO Carolyn McCall said.
The producer is behind series including Tiny World and Giant World for Apple+; Hostile Planet and Supernatural Planet for Disney; Night on Earth and Animal for Netflix and the upcoming landmark series A Year on Planet Earth for ITV, Tencent in China, Fox Nation in the U.S. and Ard Group in Germany.
“This acquisition is a...
- 6/14/2022
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
ITV Studios is buying British natural history producer Plimsoll Productions, Variety can reveal.
While the acquisition isn’t a done deal just yet, sources indicate that it’s expected to close in the next two days. The deal, which sees ITV Studios take a majority stake in Grant Mansfield’s company, is a major coup for the “Love Island” super-indie, which has long been missing a strong natural history player in its entertainment and drama-skewing portfolio.
Founded by Rdf Media and Zodiak USA veteran Mansfield, Plimsoll was founded in 2013 and specializes in wildlife and natural history programming across its outposts in Bristol, Cardiff and Los Angeles. The company has been regarded as one of Britain’s foremost independent natural history producers outside the BBC’s Natural History Unit.
Its credits include “Animal” for Netflix (pictured), “Hostile Planet” and the forthcoming “Great Migrations” for National Geographic and “Tiny World” for Apple...
While the acquisition isn’t a done deal just yet, sources indicate that it’s expected to close in the next two days. The deal, which sees ITV Studios take a majority stake in Grant Mansfield’s company, is a major coup for the “Love Island” super-indie, which has long been missing a strong natural history player in its entertainment and drama-skewing portfolio.
Founded by Rdf Media and Zodiak USA veteran Mansfield, Plimsoll was founded in 2013 and specializes in wildlife and natural history programming across its outposts in Bristol, Cardiff and Los Angeles. The company has been regarded as one of Britain’s foremost independent natural history producers outside the BBC’s Natural History Unit.
Its credits include “Animal” for Netflix (pictured), “Hostile Planet” and the forthcoming “Great Migrations” for National Geographic and “Tiny World” for Apple...
- 6/8/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Plimsoll Productions, producer of AppleTV+’s Tiny Planet and Netflix’s Animal, is supercharging its science slate by promoting Martha Holmes to Chief Creative Officer of Natural History and Science.
Former Blue Planet producer Holmes, who is exec-ing upcoming Disney+ series On the Edge with Alex Honnold amongst others, moves up from Head of Natural History, having joined Plimsoll from the BBC Studios Natural History Unit (Nhu) when it was launched by Grant Mansfield almost a decade ago.
Reporting to Mansfield, Holmes’ new department has 150 staff, a vast number for an independent production company.
She will continue to oversee natural history while helming Plimsoll’s push deeper into science and takes a place on the Plimsoll Board as one of three Executive Directors.
Most recently, she has been instrumental in creating the Benedict Cumberbatch-narrated/James Cameron-produced Super/Natural for Disney+ and National Geographic’s Great Migrations.
“Martha...
Former Blue Planet producer Holmes, who is exec-ing upcoming Disney+ series On the Edge with Alex Honnold amongst others, moves up from Head of Natural History, having joined Plimsoll from the BBC Studios Natural History Unit (Nhu) when it was launched by Grant Mansfield almost a decade ago.
Reporting to Mansfield, Holmes’ new department has 150 staff, a vast number for an independent production company.
She will continue to oversee natural history while helming Plimsoll’s push deeper into science and takes a place on the Plimsoll Board as one of three Executive Directors.
Most recently, she has been instrumental in creating the Benedict Cumberbatch-narrated/James Cameron-produced Super/Natural for Disney+ and National Geographic’s Great Migrations.
“Martha...
- 4/28/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Hostile Planet producer Plimsoll Productions has posted a 65% increase in sales to almost $70M (£50M) over the past year, defying the impact of the pandemic in the natural history space.
Deadline understands the firm’s Ebitda has also nearly doubled to around the $14M (£10M) for the year to 31 August 2021.
Bristol-based Plimsoll was acquired by UK private equity firm Ldc in 2019 in a deal that valued the producer at around $110M (£80M).
As production in the booming natural history space was hit by the financial and logistical impacts of Covid-19, Plimsoll saw the likes of Apple TV+’s Tiny World and ABC’s Women of 9/11 released, while tying with ITV on the UK network’s return to natural history.
Grant Mansfield’s outfit also acquired Andrea Jackson’s distributor Magnify Media.
The company therefore posted a sales increase of around 65% to almost hit the $70M (£50M) mark, according to Ldc.
Deadline understands the firm’s Ebitda has also nearly doubled to around the $14M (£10M) for the year to 31 August 2021.
Bristol-based Plimsoll was acquired by UK private equity firm Ldc in 2019 in a deal that valued the producer at around $110M (£80M).
As production in the booming natural history space was hit by the financial and logistical impacts of Covid-19, Plimsoll saw the likes of Apple TV+’s Tiny World and ABC’s Women of 9/11 released, while tying with ITV on the UK network’s return to natural history.
Grant Mansfield’s outfit also acquired Andrea Jackson’s distributor Magnify Media.
The company therefore posted a sales increase of around 65% to almost hit the $70M (£50M) mark, according to Ldc.
- 10/26/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Plimsoll Productions, the company behind series such as Apple’s Tiny World and Fox’s Malika the Lion Queen, has promoted its U.S. chief Saul Goldberg.
Goldberg joined the company, which also made ABC’s The Women of 9/11, in 2019 to lead its U.S. operation and has now been promoted to SVP, Production and Development.
It comes on the back of commissions such as On The Edge with Alex Honnold at Nat Geo and When Big Things Go Wrong at History as well as projects with Hulu, Disney+, Discovery+ and Peacock.
Goldberg will continue to work closely with Los Angeles-based Plimsoll board member Mark Itkin to broaden the company’s North American footprint across all genres and bring A-list talent to its titles.
“A key member of Plimsoll’s creative leadership team, Saul has developed premium shows with top-tier talent to accelerate our U.S. expansion,” says Grant Mansfield,...
Goldberg joined the company, which also made ABC’s The Women of 9/11, in 2019 to lead its U.S. operation and has now been promoted to SVP, Production and Development.
It comes on the back of commissions such as On The Edge with Alex Honnold at Nat Geo and When Big Things Go Wrong at History as well as projects with Hulu, Disney+, Discovery+ and Peacock.
Goldberg will continue to work closely with Los Angeles-based Plimsoll board member Mark Itkin to broaden the company’s North American footprint across all genres and bring A-list talent to its titles.
“A key member of Plimsoll’s creative leadership team, Saul has developed premium shows with top-tier talent to accelerate our U.S. expansion,” says Grant Mansfield,...
- 10/7/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Oasis Doc Heads To Paramount+; Danish Oscar Shortlist; ITV & Tencent Ink Co-Pro Deal – Global Briefs
Paramount+ Buys Oasis Concert Doc
Concert film Oasis Knebworth 1996 will head to Paramount+ in the US, UK, Latin America, Australia, the Nordics and Canada following its worldwide theatrical release. Dates are yet to be scheduled. Those outside of those markets will be able to watch the pic on MTV Worldwide. The film is told through the eyes of the concertgoers and features extensive and never-before-seen archive concert and backstage footage, plus interviews with the band and event organizers. “ViacomCBS has a long and storied history with Oasis dating back to their infamous performance on MTV Unplugged and unforgettable appearances on MTV’s The Jon Stewart Show and 120 Minutes,” said Bruce Gillmer, President of Music, Music Talent, Programming and Events, ViacomCBS and Chief Content Officer, Music, Paramount+. “This film will give Paramount+ and MTV audiences an all-access pass into these iconic concerts that defined an era and catapulted Oasis to legendary status.
Concert film Oasis Knebworth 1996 will head to Paramount+ in the US, UK, Latin America, Australia, the Nordics and Canada following its worldwide theatrical release. Dates are yet to be scheduled. Those outside of those markets will be able to watch the pic on MTV Worldwide. The film is told through the eyes of the concertgoers and features extensive and never-before-seen archive concert and backstage footage, plus interviews with the band and event organizers. “ViacomCBS has a long and storied history with Oasis dating back to their infamous performance on MTV Unplugged and unforgettable appearances on MTV’s The Jon Stewart Show and 120 Minutes,” said Bruce Gillmer, President of Music, Music Talent, Programming and Events, ViacomCBS and Chief Content Officer, Music, Paramount+. “This film will give Paramount+ and MTV audiences an all-access pass into these iconic concerts that defined an era and catapulted Oasis to legendary status.
- 9/16/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Streaming
Netflix has unveiled a release date for its first Spanish Original reality show “Insiders,” which will premiere around the world on Oct. 21. Hosted by “Money Heist” actor Najwa Nimri, the show has been billed as something completely new to the reality landscape in which its contestants believe, through the entire filming process, that they are only in the qualification rounds for an entirely different show. With the cameras constantly rolling, the twelve participants are kept in the dark that they are, in fact, being filmed for a hidden camera show. Set on a 17200 sq. ft. soundstage rigged with more than 250 hidden microphones and 70 hidden cameras, the contestants will unknowingly let their true colors shine right until the final reveal, when one winner will take home €100,000.
Acquisition
Nhk has acquired broadcast rights to Ines Marzouk’s feature documentary “My Mohamed is Different,” a standout in the World Showcase section of...
Netflix has unveiled a release date for its first Spanish Original reality show “Insiders,” which will premiere around the world on Oct. 21. Hosted by “Money Heist” actor Najwa Nimri, the show has been billed as something completely new to the reality landscape in which its contestants believe, through the entire filming process, that they are only in the qualification rounds for an entirely different show. With the cameras constantly rolling, the twelve participants are kept in the dark that they are, in fact, being filmed for a hidden camera show. Set on a 17200 sq. ft. soundstage rigged with more than 250 hidden microphones and 70 hidden cameras, the contestants will unknowingly let their true colors shine right until the final reveal, when one winner will take home €100,000.
Acquisition
Nhk has acquired broadcast rights to Ines Marzouk’s feature documentary “My Mohamed is Different,” a standout in the World Showcase section of...
- 9/16/2021
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Free Solo, which earned Nat Geo its first Oscar, was one of the channel’s signature programs selected to launch Disney+, with Free Solo’s Alex Honnold featured in the streamer’s first trailer alongside Marvel superheroes and classic Disney/ Pixar animated characters. Now Disney+ has greenlighted a three-part original docuseries from National Geographic headlined by Honnold.
On the Edge with Alex Honnold, produced by Plimsoll Productions, sees the professional adventure rock climber embark on a lifelong dream – an epic climbing quest across the remotest and toughest walls and peaks of Greenland, a country that has become the crucible of the climate crisis. In 2020, 300 billion tons of Greenland ice disappeared, the biggest annual melt in recorded history.
With an overabundance of virgin climbs and impossible walls, Greenland is considered the world’s last great climbing frontier. As he attempts a once-in-a-lifetime climbing challenge that will push his physical limits,...
On the Edge with Alex Honnold, produced by Plimsoll Productions, sees the professional adventure rock climber embark on a lifelong dream – an epic climbing quest across the remotest and toughest walls and peaks of Greenland, a country that has become the crucible of the climate crisis. In 2020, 300 billion tons of Greenland ice disappeared, the biggest annual melt in recorded history.
With an overabundance of virgin climbs and impossible walls, Greenland is considered the world’s last great climbing frontier. As he attempts a once-in-a-lifetime climbing challenge that will push his physical limits,...
- 8/18/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Disney+ and Nat Geo have greenlit their latest UK-produced natural history series in the shape of Supernatural Planet, which hails from Hostile Planet and Yellowstone Live outfit Plimsoll Productions.
Deadline understands that the six-part series has been in production for some time and will use cutting-edge filming techniques to explore the hidden abilities of various creatures. In short, it’s a bit like examining the Marvel characters of the natural world.
Billed as blue-chip natural history, the show has been shooting in locations across the world, including Costa Rica, as it looks to bring viewers enchanting stories of animals doing extraordinary things in their natural habitats.
Disney+ is proving to be a major source of business for UK natural history producers. Deadline revealed in December that Wall To Wall is making Growing Up Animal for the streamer, with the show premiering next month. Blink Films made Meet The Chimps last year,...
Deadline understands that the six-part series has been in production for some time and will use cutting-edge filming techniques to explore the hidden abilities of various creatures. In short, it’s a bit like examining the Marvel characters of the natural world.
Billed as blue-chip natural history, the show has been shooting in locations across the world, including Costa Rica, as it looks to bring viewers enchanting stories of animals doing extraordinary things in their natural habitats.
Disney+ is proving to be a major source of business for UK natural history producers. Deadline revealed in December that Wall To Wall is making Growing Up Animal for the streamer, with the show premiering next month. Blink Films made Meet The Chimps last year,...
- 7/13/2021
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, Discovery Plus released a trailer for “The Swim,” and Apple TV Plus announced original Earth Day programming, including “The Year Earth Changed” and new seasons of “Tiny World” and “Earth At Night In Color.”
Dates
Apple TV Plus announced new original Earth Day programming set to premiere on April 16, including “The Year Earth Changed” and new seasons of “Tiny World” and “Earth At Night In Color.” “The Year Earth Changed,” narrated by David Attenborough, is a special highlighting nature’s resiliency during the pandemic. It is produced by BBC Studios National History Unit, directed by Tom Beard and executive produced by Mike Gunton and Alice Keens-Soper. Coming back for a second season, “Tiny World” is a six-episode docuseries that illuminates the the ingenuity of Earth’s smallest creatures. Paul Rudd narrates and executive produces alongside Tom Hugh Jones, who also serves as writer with David Fowler.
Dates
Apple TV Plus announced new original Earth Day programming set to premiere on April 16, including “The Year Earth Changed” and new seasons of “Tiny World” and “Earth At Night In Color.” “The Year Earth Changed,” narrated by David Attenborough, is a special highlighting nature’s resiliency during the pandemic. It is produced by BBC Studios National History Unit, directed by Tom Beard and executive produced by Mike Gunton and Alice Keens-Soper. Coming back for a second season, “Tiny World” is a six-episode docuseries that illuminates the the ingenuity of Earth’s smallest creatures. Paul Rudd narrates and executive produces alongside Tom Hugh Jones, who also serves as writer with David Fowler.
- 3/29/2021
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, HBO Max ordered a new streetwear competition series, and Variety has an exclusive first look at Carey Mulligan in “My Grandparents’ War.”
Casting
Angela Bassett will narrate Fox’s “Malika the Lion Queen,” a two-hour wildlife documentary that will air April 4 and be available on Tubi beginning April 18. Bassett will guide viewers through an educational exploration of the true queens and leaders in the lion kingdom. The special tells the untold story of the lioness experience through the exhilarating and harrowing life of Malika. It is produced by Plimsoll Productions and executive produced by Tom Hugh-Jones, Martha Holmes and Grant Mansfield. Watch a teaser below.
Dates
“Birdgirl” will debut on Adult Swim at midnight on April 4. The “Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law” spinoff sees 30-something Judy Ken Sebben inherit her father’s socially irresponsible company. To set things right, She assembles the ragtag Birdteam...
Casting
Angela Bassett will narrate Fox’s “Malika the Lion Queen,” a two-hour wildlife documentary that will air April 4 and be available on Tubi beginning April 18. Bassett will guide viewers through an educational exploration of the true queens and leaders in the lion kingdom. The special tells the untold story of the lioness experience through the exhilarating and harrowing life of Malika. It is produced by Plimsoll Productions and executive produced by Tom Hugh-Jones, Martha Holmes and Grant Mansfield. Watch a teaser below.
Dates
“Birdgirl” will debut on Adult Swim at midnight on April 4. The “Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law” spinoff sees 30-something Judy Ken Sebben inherit her father’s socially irresponsible company. To set things right, She assembles the ragtag Birdteam...
- 3/16/2021
- by Haley Bosselman
- Variety Film + TV
Fox is roaming into natural history with a two-hour special narrated by 9-1-1 star Angela Bassett. The network has ordered Malika the Lion Queen, a documentary about the lionesses of a pride in South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
The special, which is produced by British production company Plimsoll Productions, the business behind Apple TV+’s Tiny World, will launch April 4 at 8 p.m. and will be available on Fox’s AVOD streamer Tubi beginning April 18.
It marks the network’s first move into the natural history genre – an area dominated by the BBC and cable networks such as Discovery and Nat Geo as well as increased moves by streamers such as Netflix and Apple.
It comes as Fox is no longer a sister company to Nat Geo following the Disney deal and after NBC also dipped its toe into the genre with a 10-part series from BBC Studios Natural History Unit,...
The special, which is produced by British production company Plimsoll Productions, the business behind Apple TV+’s Tiny World, will launch April 4 at 8 p.m. and will be available on Fox’s AVOD streamer Tubi beginning April 18.
It marks the network’s first move into the natural history genre – an area dominated by the BBC and cable networks such as Discovery and Nat Geo as well as increased moves by streamers such as Netflix and Apple.
It comes as Fox is no longer a sister company to Nat Geo following the Disney deal and after NBC also dipped its toe into the genre with a 10-part series from BBC Studios Natural History Unit,...
- 3/16/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Mark Itkin, former WME partner and a doyen of the international formats and unscripted world, has joined the board of Plimsoll Productions.
Itkin, who is based in LA and New York, will work closely with CEO Grant Mansfield and VP, Production and Development Saul Goldberg as the Hostile Planet and Yellowstone Live producer focuses on the U.S. market.
He will advise on strategy across the group with a focus on creating and packaging non-scripted content for the U.S. Plimsoll currently has 18 series in production around the world and recently made Netflix’s Night on Earth and Tiny World for Apple+. The company also secured multi-million-dollar investment from private equity firm Ldc last year.
Itkin retired from the agency business in 2015. Regarded as one of the architects of the modern syndication model and the proliferation of the non-scripted genre, Itkin, who came from the Wma side of WME,...
Itkin, who is based in LA and New York, will work closely with CEO Grant Mansfield and VP, Production and Development Saul Goldberg as the Hostile Planet and Yellowstone Live producer focuses on the U.S. market.
He will advise on strategy across the group with a focus on creating and packaging non-scripted content for the U.S. Plimsoll currently has 18 series in production around the world and recently made Netflix’s Night on Earth and Tiny World for Apple+. The company also secured multi-million-dollar investment from private equity firm Ldc last year.
Itkin retired from the agency business in 2015. Regarded as one of the architects of the modern syndication model and the proliferation of the non-scripted genre, Itkin, who came from the Wma side of WME,...
- 10/7/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Hostile Planet producer Plimsoll Productions has taken full control of international distribution company Magnify Media.
The company, which was set up by former Rdf USA chief Grant Mansfield, took a minority stake in Magnify, which was established by Andrea Jackson, in 2016.
Jackson set up the company in September 2015 and it represents global rights to shows from companies including CNN, Argonon, Rare TV, Nrk, Yle, Seventh Art Productions and Kite Entertainment as well as Plimsoll.
It has sold shows such as Fittest Family, Doctors Vs. Internet, Rescue Dog to Super Dog and Cash in the Attic to broadcasters around the world.
Magnify Media’s current slate includes Plimsoll formats such as Channel 4’s Good with Wood and BBC’s Unique B&b.
Jackson said, “This is an incredibly exciting time for Magnify. We will continue to bring passion and energy to all that we do, and now with Plimsoll’s investment and resources,...
The company, which was set up by former Rdf USA chief Grant Mansfield, took a minority stake in Magnify, which was established by Andrea Jackson, in 2016.
Jackson set up the company in September 2015 and it represents global rights to shows from companies including CNN, Argonon, Rare TV, Nrk, Yle, Seventh Art Productions and Kite Entertainment as well as Plimsoll.
It has sold shows such as Fittest Family, Doctors Vs. Internet, Rescue Dog to Super Dog and Cash in the Attic to broadcasters around the world.
Magnify Media’s current slate includes Plimsoll formats such as Channel 4’s Good with Wood and BBC’s Unique B&b.
Jackson said, “This is an incredibly exciting time for Magnify. We will continue to bring passion and energy to all that we do, and now with Plimsoll’s investment and resources,...
- 9/23/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Independent U.K. production company Plimsoll Productions has fully acquired Andrea Jackson’s distribution outfit Magnify Media, after taking a minority stake in the company in 2016.
With access to Plimsoll’s resources and infrastructure, the acquisition will allow Magnify to continue to expand. Magnify’s current Mipcom slate includes two new Plimsoll formats: “Good with Wood” (Channel 4) and “Unique B&b”(BBC).
Magnify was set up in 2015 as a specialist content distribution and rights management company working with producers, rights owners and broadcasters to develop and exploit rights across platforms globally. The boutique company, which has built a strong reputation across the industry, represents titles from rights owners including Argonon, Rare TV, Nrk, Yle, Seventh Art Productions, Kite Entertainment and CNN International. Hit shows include “Fittest Family,” “Doctors Vs. Internet,” “Rescue Dog to Super Dog” and “Cash in the Attic.”
Plimsoll, which has offices in Los Angeles, Bristol and Cardiff,...
With access to Plimsoll’s resources and infrastructure, the acquisition will allow Magnify to continue to expand. Magnify’s current Mipcom slate includes two new Plimsoll formats: “Good with Wood” (Channel 4) and “Unique B&b”(BBC).
Magnify was set up in 2015 as a specialist content distribution and rights management company working with producers, rights owners and broadcasters to develop and exploit rights across platforms globally. The boutique company, which has built a strong reputation across the industry, represents titles from rights owners including Argonon, Rare TV, Nrk, Yle, Seventh Art Productions, Kite Entertainment and CNN International. Hit shows include “Fittest Family,” “Doctors Vs. Internet,” “Rescue Dog to Super Dog” and “Cash in the Attic.”
Plimsoll, which has offices in Los Angeles, Bristol and Cardiff,...
- 9/23/2020
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Apple TV Plus is releasing three new documentary series this fall, each of which examines the world through a different perspective.
“Tiny World,” narrated by Paul Rudd, premieres its first six episodes the streaming platform on Oct. 2. The nature series aims to look at the world “through the eyes of the tiniest creatures and witness the extraordinary things they do to survive.” Produced by Plimsoll Productions, the documentary series was written and executive produced by Tom Hugh Jones. Dr. Martha Holmes and Grant Mansfield executive produced the series on behalf of Plimsoll.
“Becoming You,” narrated by Olivia Colman, premieres its first half dozen episodes on Nov. 13. The series looks at how a child’s first 2,000 days shape the rest of their lives.
“Told through the eyes of over 100 children across the world, from Nepal to Japan and Borneo, each episode offers a thought-provoking look at how children learn to think,...
“Tiny World,” narrated by Paul Rudd, premieres its first six episodes the streaming platform on Oct. 2. The nature series aims to look at the world “through the eyes of the tiniest creatures and witness the extraordinary things they do to survive.” Produced by Plimsoll Productions, the documentary series was written and executive produced by Tom Hugh Jones. Dr. Martha Holmes and Grant Mansfield executive produced the series on behalf of Plimsoll.
“Becoming You,” narrated by Olivia Colman, premieres its first half dozen episodes on Nov. 13. The series looks at how a child’s first 2,000 days shape the rest of their lives.
“Told through the eyes of over 100 children across the world, from Nepal to Japan and Borneo, each episode offers a thought-provoking look at how children learn to think,...
- 8/26/2020
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Cairo International Film Festival, having recently confirmed that this year’s 42nd edition will be held in person in November, has opened the window for submissions to the Cairo Film Connection sidebar, part of Cairo Industry Days.
In its seven years of operation, Cairo Film Connection has helped Arab filmmakers secure funding and partnerships on more than 100 films from across the region. Last year, the event provided more than $200,000 of support between the shortlisted filmmakers.
Eligible projects must be feature length, fiction or non-fiction, from a filmmaker of Arab nationality or origin with at least one finished film on their resume, feature or short. Interested parties have until April 4 to submit via the festival’s website.
Cairo Industry Days is entering its third year in partnership with the Arab Cinema Center, which unites global industry professionals for a series of masterclasses, panels and events designed to promote and provide global networking opportunities to regional talent.
In its seven years of operation, Cairo Film Connection has helped Arab filmmakers secure funding and partnerships on more than 100 films from across the region. Last year, the event provided more than $200,000 of support between the shortlisted filmmakers.
Eligible projects must be feature length, fiction or non-fiction, from a filmmaker of Arab nationality or origin with at least one finished film on their resume, feature or short. Interested parties have until April 4 to submit via the festival’s website.
Cairo Industry Days is entering its third year in partnership with the Arab Cinema Center, which unites global industry professionals for a series of masterclasses, panels and events designed to promote and provide global networking opportunities to regional talent.
- 7/20/2020
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group division Entertainment Studios is to launch seven of its networks in the Middle East on Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company’s Du platform. The deal was brokered by Sawa Rights Management. It is part of an overall arrangement that will soon extend to other Middle East and North Africa nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Tunis, Algeria and Morocco. “The international demand for American content is a multi-billion dollar marketplace,” said Tom Devlin, president of international television sales/marketing at Entertainment Studios. “We are excited to bring our portfolio of family-friendly lifestyle networks and programming to the Middle East and North Africa television markets for the first time as we continue to expand our network brands worldwide.”
Mel Giedroyc, the former host of The Great British Bake Off, is to front another competition series with echoes of the baking show.
Mel Giedroyc, the former host of The Great British Bake Off, is to front another competition series with echoes of the baking show.
- 7/20/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Hostile Planet producer Plimsoll Productions is moving into scripted. The natural history producer has hired Lisa Gilchrist, producer of Dominic West-fronted crime thriller Appropriate Adult, as Head of Drama.
This comes six months after the company, which also produces series such as Yellowstone Live and Netflix’s Night on Earth, has secured multi-million-dollar investment from private equity firm Ldc.
Gilchrist, who reports to Plimsoll CEO Grant Mansfield, has worked with Mrs Wilson producer Snowed-In Productions as well as ITV and the BBC. Other projects she has worked on include ITV’s See No Evil: The Moors Murders and This is Personal: The Hunt for the Yorkshire Ripper and BBC One’s The Moorside.
She has been tasked with developing original scripted series with an initial focus on factual drama for the UK and international marketplace.
Grant Mansfield, CEO, said, “Lisa has built a reputation on delivering standout, award winning and emotionally powerful drama.
This comes six months after the company, which also produces series such as Yellowstone Live and Netflix’s Night on Earth, has secured multi-million-dollar investment from private equity firm Ldc.
Gilchrist, who reports to Plimsoll CEO Grant Mansfield, has worked with Mrs Wilson producer Snowed-In Productions as well as ITV and the BBC. Other projects she has worked on include ITV’s See No Evil: The Moors Murders and This is Personal: The Hunt for the Yorkshire Ripper and BBC One’s The Moorside.
She has been tasked with developing original scripted series with an initial focus on factual drama for the UK and international marketplace.
Grant Mansfield, CEO, said, “Lisa has built a reputation on delivering standout, award winning and emotionally powerful drama.
- 2/11/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: ITV is moving into the resurgent natural history space with its first major wildlife series in a number of years, taking on the likes of the BBC, Netflix and Discovery.
The British commercial broadcaster is working with Hostile Planet producer Plimsoll Productions on landmark doc series A Year On Planet Earth (w/t) and the Grant Mansfield-run business is currently in La pitching the project to U.S. broadcasters and streaming platforms to finalize its financing.
A Year On Planet Earth is being overseen by showrunner Tom Hugh-Jones, creative director at Plimsoll, who was the showrunner of the BBC’s Planet Earth II and Nat Geo’s Hostile Planet, and Plimsoll’s Head of Wildlife, Dr Martha Holmes.
Deadline understands that the series showcases the planet’s annual journey around the sun and its impact on the globe.
Hugh-Jones and Holmes are in La this week, on the...
The British commercial broadcaster is working with Hostile Planet producer Plimsoll Productions on landmark doc series A Year On Planet Earth (w/t) and the Grant Mansfield-run business is currently in La pitching the project to U.S. broadcasters and streaming platforms to finalize its financing.
A Year On Planet Earth is being overseen by showrunner Tom Hugh-Jones, creative director at Plimsoll, who was the showrunner of the BBC’s Planet Earth II and Nat Geo’s Hostile Planet, and Plimsoll’s Head of Wildlife, Dr Martha Holmes.
Deadline understands that the series showcases the planet’s annual journey around the sun and its impact on the globe.
Hugh-Jones and Holmes are in La this week, on the...
- 9/18/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Plimsoll Productions, the production company behind series including Nat Geo’s Hostile Planet and Yellowstone Live, is ramping up its U.S. activities with the hire of former Covert Media exec Saul Goldberg to run its La office.
This comes after the natural history producer, which is making raft of series for streaming services, including commissions from Apple’s forthcoming platform, received multi-million-dollar investment from private equity firm Ldc.
Goldberg joins the company, founded by former Zodiak USA chief Grant Mansfield, as Vice President of Development and Production. He will oversee Plimsoll’s U.S. slate across factual entertainment and documentaries, building on its footprint, which now amounts to more than 75% of its business. He will work closely with Plimsoll Head of Factual Entertainment Karen Plumb, Head of Documentaries Richard Klein, and President of International Production and Development Andrew Jackson.
Most recently, Goldberg served as Head of Unscripted TV...
This comes after the natural history producer, which is making raft of series for streaming services, including commissions from Apple’s forthcoming platform, received multi-million-dollar investment from private equity firm Ldc.
Goldberg joins the company, founded by former Zodiak USA chief Grant Mansfield, as Vice President of Development and Production. He will oversee Plimsoll’s U.S. slate across factual entertainment and documentaries, building on its footprint, which now amounts to more than 75% of its business. He will work closely with Plimsoll Head of Factual Entertainment Karen Plumb, Head of Documentaries Richard Klein, and President of International Production and Development Andrew Jackson.
Most recently, Goldberg served as Head of Unscripted TV...
- 9/4/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Plimsoll Productions, the production company behind series including Nat Geo’s Hostile Planet and Yellowstone Live, has secured multi-million-dollar investment from private equity firm Ldc.
The investment firm has taken a minority stake in the natural history and wildlife producer, which was founded by former Zodiak USA chief Grant Mansfield. The deal values the company at around $100M.
Headquartered in Bristol, UK, Plimsoll was founded in 2013 and has more than 400 employees across the UK and La. It is behind more than 50 series, 14 live shows and seven films including Channel 4’s Rescue Dog to Super Dog and ITV’s Life at the Extreme. It is also making a raft of series for streaming services, including commissions from Apple’s forthcoming platform.
The company is on track to generate sales of around $42M for its financial year ending August 2019 including sales to a slew of international broadcasters via distributor Magnify Media,...
The investment firm has taken a minority stake in the natural history and wildlife producer, which was founded by former Zodiak USA chief Grant Mansfield. The deal values the company at around $100M.
Headquartered in Bristol, UK, Plimsoll was founded in 2013 and has more than 400 employees across the UK and La. It is behind more than 50 series, 14 live shows and seven films including Channel 4’s Rescue Dog to Super Dog and ITV’s Life at the Extreme. It is also making a raft of series for streaming services, including commissions from Apple’s forthcoming platform.
The company is on track to generate sales of around $42M for its financial year ending August 2019 including sales to a slew of international broadcasters via distributor Magnify Media,...
- 8/12/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s been a busy ten days for the global SVODs in London as top execs from Netflix, Amazon and Apple all outlined their multi-million-dollar ambitions in the UK. Grilled by members of the House of Lords, all three streamers opened up about their strategies to produce significant numbers of hours of programming out of Britain.
Apple revealed that it has already spent millions of dollars with UK producers including BBC Studios, ahead of the launch of its digital platform later this year, Amazon lifted the lid about working with British broadcasters on projects such as Steve McQueen’s Small Axe, and Netflix called co-productions the “lifeblood” of its business across the pond, hours before unveiling plans to create a major production hub at Shepperton Studios.
Amazon’s Georgia Brown, Netflix’s Anne Mensah and Apple’s Jay Hunt all spoke at length about their employer’s drive to work with British talent,...
Apple revealed that it has already spent millions of dollars with UK producers including BBC Studios, ahead of the launch of its digital platform later this year, Amazon lifted the lid about working with British broadcasters on projects such as Steve McQueen’s Small Axe, and Netflix called co-productions the “lifeblood” of its business across the pond, hours before unveiling plans to create a major production hub at Shepperton Studios.
Amazon’s Georgia Brown, Netflix’s Anne Mensah and Apple’s Jay Hunt all spoke at length about their employer’s drive to work with British talent,...
- 7/4/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
UK and U.S.-based factual entertainment and wildlife producer Plimsoll Productions has hired Oscar-winning documentarian Richard Klein to head its new documentary division. The company also has promoted three key execs – Tom Hugh-Jones to Creative Director of Natural History, Jonathan Jackson to Finance and Commercial Director and Chris Williams to Series Producer. All will work out of the company’s headquarters in Bristol with Klein reporting directly to Chief Executive Grant Mansfield, Hugh-Jones to Head of Natural History Martha Holmes, Jackson to Chief Operating Officer Christine Owen and Williams to Head of Factual Entertainment Karen Plumb.
In his new role, Klein will oversee documentary programming for the UK and international broadcasters. During his career, he has produced more than 100 documentaries and has led factual commissioning at both the BBC and ITV and run BBC4. His credits include the Oscar-winning Man on Wire, The White Season, The Verdict, Traffic Cops,...
In his new role, Klein will oversee documentary programming for the UK and international broadcasters. During his career, he has produced more than 100 documentaries and has led factual commissioning at both the BBC and ITV and run BBC4. His credits include the Oscar-winning Man on Wire, The White Season, The Verdict, Traffic Cops,...
- 11/1/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
With China in the spotlight at Mipcom as country of honor, CCTV has stepped up and acquired a package of blue-chip factual fare from international distributor Blue Ant International. The Chinese state broadcaster has taken 60 hours of high-end nature and wildlife programming from Blue Ant for its CCTV-1 and CCTV-10 channels.
Some categories of program can be a tough sell into China, which is in the throes of introducing new rules on foreign content, but there is a consistent local appetite for quality natural history and wildlife shows.
CCTV’s flagship CCTV-1 channel has snagged several shows that Blue Ant produced under the Love Nature brand and with Grant Mansfield’s Plimsoll Production, including three-parters “Monkey Island” and “Valley of Flood and Fire.” It has also acquired Off the Fence-produced “Africa’s Wild Horizons,” and Madagascar series “Land of Gremlins.”
The science and education focused CCTV-10 channel has also acquired...
Some categories of program can be a tough sell into China, which is in the throes of introducing new rules on foreign content, but there is a consistent local appetite for quality natural history and wildlife shows.
CCTV’s flagship CCTV-1 channel has snagged several shows that Blue Ant produced under the Love Nature brand and with Grant Mansfield’s Plimsoll Production, including three-parters “Monkey Island” and “Valley of Flood and Fire.” It has also acquired Off the Fence-produced “Africa’s Wild Horizons,” and Madagascar series “Land of Gremlins.”
The science and education focused CCTV-10 channel has also acquired...
- 10/15/2018
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Bear Grylls (Running Wild With Bear Grylls) has been tapped as host of National Geographic Channel’s upcoming docuseries Hostile Planet (working title), from Oscar-winning cinematographer and director Guillermo Navarro (Pan’s Labyrinth), Emmy-nominated producer Martha Holmes (The Blue Planet) and Emmy winner Tom Hugh-Jones (Planet Earth II).
Produced by Plimsoll Productions, Hostile Planet (wt) draws attention to the most extraordinary – almost supernatural – accounts of animals that have conformed to the cruelest evolutionary curveballs. Each episode characterizes one the planet’s roughest environments – including jungles, mountains, deserts, oceans, the Poles and grasslands – and how each of its inhabitants acclimate to its turn of events. Grylls will act as guide through these extreme locations where animals have adapted to survive against all odds.
Per Nat Geo: Set against the backdrop of a more violent and volatile climate, the epic battles for survival take on a new urgency as animals face intensified wildfires,...
Produced by Plimsoll Productions, Hostile Planet (wt) draws attention to the most extraordinary – almost supernatural – accounts of animals that have conformed to the cruelest evolutionary curveballs. Each episode characterizes one the planet’s roughest environments – including jungles, mountains, deserts, oceans, the Poles and grasslands – and how each of its inhabitants acclimate to its turn of events. Grylls will act as guide through these extreme locations where animals have adapted to survive against all odds.
Per Nat Geo: Set against the backdrop of a more violent and volatile climate, the epic battles for survival take on a new urgency as animals face intensified wildfires,...
- 7/25/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Nat Geo Greenlights ‘Hostile Planet’ Docuseries From Guillermo Navarro & ‘Planet Earth II’ Producers
National Geographic has given the green light to Hostile Planet, a six-part docuseries from Oscar-winning cinematographer and director Guillermo Navarro (Pan’s Labyrinth), Emmy-nominated producer Martha Holmes (The Blue Planet) and Emmy winner Tom Hugh-Jones (Planet Earth II). The pick-up comes ahead of National Geographic’s Further Front.
The series, produced by Plimsoll Productions, takes an intimate look at the way animals have found ways to survive in the world’s most inhospitable landscapes. Per Nat Geo: “Set against the backdrop of a more violent and volatile climate, the battles for survival take on a new urgency as animals face intensified wildfires, blizzards, droughts and downpours. To some, the new challenges are too much, but for others, it presents new opportunities.” Hostile Planet uses new camera technology to allow a close-up vantage point as the animals navigate through their changing landscapes.
“The series celebrates the surprising resiliency of animals that...
The series, produced by Plimsoll Productions, takes an intimate look at the way animals have found ways to survive in the world’s most inhospitable landscapes. Per Nat Geo: “Set against the backdrop of a more violent and volatile climate, the battles for survival take on a new urgency as animals face intensified wildfires, blizzards, droughts and downpours. To some, the new challenges are too much, but for others, it presents new opportunities.” Hostile Planet uses new camera technology to allow a close-up vantage point as the animals navigate through their changing landscapes.
“The series celebrates the surprising resiliency of animals that...
- 4/18/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Animal Planet has ordered the new Rescue Dog to Super Dog TV show, featuring trainers Nate Schoemer and Laura London. The duo will rescue shelter dogs and train them to be service companions, for people in need. From Plimsoll Productions Rescue Dog to Super Dog is executive produced by Grant Mansfield, Karen Plumb, and Laurie Girion. Keith Hoffman executive produces for Animal Planet. Expect the new docu-series to premiere in the third quarter of 2017. Read More…...
- 4/4/2017
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Animal Planet has given the green light to Rescue Dog to Super Dog (working title), an unscripted series in which shelter dogs are given a second chance to become a companion to someone in need, from Grant Mansfield’s Plimsoll Productions. It’s slated for premiere in the third quarter in 2017. Based on Plimsoll’s Channel 4 format, the premise is to give comfort and assistance to those who live with physical, mental or neurological disabilities and provide a permanent home…...
- 3/27/2017
- Deadline TV
UK-based Plimsoll Productions will have offices in Bristol and London with a focus on reality and wildlife programming for both UK and American broadcasters. Grant Mansfield will serve as Chief Executive, with Gavin Henderson as creative director, Martha Holmes as executive producer (Wildlife), Kate Beetham as executive producer (Factual) and Christine Owen as managing director. All will report directly to Mansfield. Mansfield most recently served as CEO of Los Angeles-based Zodiak USA where he executive produced Secret Millionaire, Celebrity Wife Swap, Hardcore Pawn and Killer Karaoke. Prior to his U.S. role, Mansfield served as Managing Director of London-based Rdf, where he developed and produced formats Ladette To Lady, Holiday Showdown, Oz And James Big Wine Adventure, Gene Simmons Rock School and Dickinson’s Real Deal.
- 9/25/2013
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Natalka Znak will leave Zodiak USA at the end of her contract next month. Znak moved to Los Angeles from her native Britain in early 2010 to become Evp of then-Rdf USA and was named Chief Creative Officer in March of that year, shortly after Grant Mansfield joined the company as CEO. Last June, Znak was upped to CEO, replacing Mansfield who returned to the UK. Then in July, Zodiak Media consolidated its production businesses in North, Central and South America, including Zodiak USA, into Zodiak Americas and tapped Jonny Slow as Zodiak Americas CEO. “Natalka has been a fantastic producer and leader for us over the past three years,” Slow said. “We’re sorry to see her go, and wish her the best in her future endeavors.” At Zodiak USA, Znak sold around 20 shows, and will continue to work on several projects until her exit. She won’t be replaced.
- 3/8/2013
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
Natalka Znak is officially taking the helm at Zodiak USA. In the new position, Znak will oversee the company’s production offices in both Los Angeles and New York and manage a programming slate that includes ABC’s Secret Millionaire and Celebrity Wife Swap and truTV’s Hardcore Pawn. The news comes three months after Grant Mansfield announced he’d be stepping down to return to his native U.K. Photos: 17 New Shows Premiering in 2012 "I plan to expand my creative team both here and in New York and make sure we're always out there with the biggest, the best and
read more...
read more...
- 6/21/2012
- by Lacey Rose
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.