BBC Studios Los Angeles and Lionsgate Television of North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, a division of Santa Monica-based Lionsgate, have teamed up to identify, co-develop and co-fund scripted formats and original intellectual property for the U.S. market, the two entities announced Friday.
As part of the first look agreement, the parties will create original series and draw upon the extensive formats from the BBC catalog, they said in a statement.
BBC says its studios production unit in Los Angeles provides premium content to broadcast, cable and subscription services and is responsible for ratings juggernaut Dancing with the Stars.
The new deal will extend both companies’ reach as it creates the opportunity to combine the best of British creativity and premium content with Lionsgate Television’s experience and success in delivering scripted programming to multiple platforms in the U.S., according to the statement.
“BBC Studios productions is known for showcasing the best content with British DNA. We’re looking forward to this creative partnership with Lionsgate Television to more readily bring this to the U.S. audiences, and beyond,” said Matt Forde, Managing Director, International Production & Formats, BBC Studios.
Lionsgate Television Group President Sandra Stern responded: “We’re thrilled to partner with one of the largest and most respected content suppliers in the world,” she said. “We’re incredibly excited by the opportunity to marshal our complementary resources and expertise to continue to bring the globally renowned BBC brand to the U.S. market.”