FlashForward Scores British Slot on Five

LONDON: The U.S. drama FlashForward, which debuts in prime time on ABC in September, has been acquired for broadcast by Five in the U.K. from Disney-ABC-ESPN Television.

The 13-episode drama, which stars British actors Joseph Fiennes and Jack Davenport, is based on a novel by award-winning author Robert J Swayer. When a mysterious event causes the entire world to suffer a brief blackout, everyone sees a vision of their own future in six months’ time on a specific date, April 29, 2010. Every man, woman and child is then forced to come to grips with whether their destinies can be avoided or fulfilled. Five has acquired the exclusive U.K. terrestrial and digital rights for FIVER and Five USA.

Jeff Ford, the managing director of digital channels and acquisitions at Five, said: “I am delighted we will be the U.K. broadcaster of this gripping new series. When we saw the pilot at the LA Screenings this year, we knew it would be perfect for our channels and make a fantastic addition to our Autumn lineup.”

Catherine Powell, the senior VP of program distribution for EMEA (North) at Disney-ABC-ESPN Television, added: “The buzz surrounding FlashForward has been rapidly growing internationally and from our very early discussions Five shared the same excitement and enthusiasm. They also have an impressive track record of breaking U.S. shows in the U.K. and will be an energetic and creative marketing partner to ensure we make the most of FlashForward’s clear appeal to British viewers.”