FremantleMedia, Channel X Reach Exclusive Development Deal

LONDON, June 14: In an exclusive development deal, the
U.K.-based Channel X has granted FremantleMedia Enterprises the first option on
all of its scripted comedy programming, with rights across a number of
platforms.

The deal will grant FME first option on all of Channel X’s
scripted comedy programming, with rights across television, DVD and ancillary
rights, including new media, worldwide (excluding the primary broadcaster
territory).

Headed up by managing director Alan Marke and director of
programs Jim Reid, Channel X has worked with British comedy talent such as
Jonathan Ross, Vic Reeves, Bob Mortimer, Matt Lucas, David Walliams, David
Mitchell, Rik Mayall, Julian Clary and Jo Brand on shows such as The Smell
of Reeves & Mortimer, Funny
Cuts, Tales of Uplift & Moral
Improvement, Snuff Box and more recently, Modern Toss, which
FME launched internationally at MIPTV.

Shane Murphy, FME’s head of acquisitions and development,
commented: “We’re thrilled to welcome the Channel X team to our extended comedy
family. With such a vast heritage of hits under its belt, we are drawn to
Channel X’s skill in creating not only solid, prime-time programming, but also
fresh, edgy and perhaps riskier comedy. As a key step in our ongoing focus to
represent the best in British comedy, we can’t wait to begin work with Channel
X’s well-respected team on a range of innovative programming.”