ITV1 Picks Up More River Monsters

LONDON: Icon Films has sold the second season of River Monsters to ITV1, while ITV Studios Global Entertainment scored deals on the series with ITV4 and TVNZ in New Zealand.

ITV1 ordered a 7×30-minute version, to air later this year. ITV4 went for the full 7×1-hour version. Originally commissioned by Animal Planet in the U.S., River Monsters follows expert fisherman Jeremy Wade as he looks to debunk myths behind harrowing tales of freshwater fish that have a taste for human flesh.

Harry Marshall, the CEO of Icon Films, said: “We are thrilled with the success and popularity River Monsters has gained on both sides of the Atlantic. The first series captured the imagination of U.K. audiences and these sales are testament to its ever-growing popularity with viewers. With all the adventure, danger and excitement, and Wade’s infectious enthusiasm, series two promises to hook U.K. audiences a second time around.”

Lucy Middelboe, the head of business affairs and co-productions at Icon Films, added: “This has been a four-way negotiation between Icon Films, ITV Studios, ITV1 and ITV4. There has been a great deal of give and take on all sides and we are very pleased with the result. The series will air on three U.K. channels within the first twelve months of transmission. This is fantastic exposure for Jeremy and Icon Films.”