Lionsgate to Rep MTG Original Swedish Dicks

STOCKHOLM: Lionsgate has set a deal with MTG that gives the company the global distribution rights for the comedy series Swedish Dicks, Viaplay’s first original series.

The comedy stars Peter Stormare (American Gods, The Blacklist, Fargo, John Wick: Chapter Two) and leading Swedish stand-up comedian Johan Glans, with Keanu Reeves (The Matrix and John Wick series) as a special guest star in a number of episodes. The series premiered on MTG’s video-streaming service Viaplay on September 2. It set a new viewing record for a Viaplay premiere in the Nordic region during its first weekend. The show is expected to premiere in the U.S. early next year.

Swedish Dicks is produced by Brain Academy, a part of MTG-owned nice entertainment group, in collaboration with LA-based Viking Brothers Entertainment.

Jørgen Madsen Lindemann, the president and CEO of MTG, said: “This is a milestone for MTG. As a leading provider of entertainment experiences, we are now placing more focus on original programming that captivates our viewers. We are super excited to team up with Lionsgate and tap their worldwide marketing and distribution capacity for global sales of our first original production for Viaplay.”

Kevin Beggs, the chairman of Lionsgate Television, added: “The best storytelling knows no borders. The Nordic region is a leader in developing amazing series, and MTG has created something special with Swedish Dicks. Combining world-class talent Peter Stormare and Johan Glans together with Keanu Reeves as a special guest star, together with edgy, compelling writing creates the kind of noisy, quality programming that is a Lionsgate trademark.”

Jakob Mejlhede, the executive VP of programming and content development at MTG, commented: “Swedish Dicks has already had a fantastic reception in the Nordic region, and we’re convinced it will appeal to viewers around the world. We have many formats in the pipeline and look forward to bringing more productions to international audiences.”

Jim Packer, the president of worldwide television and digital distribution at Lionsgate, said: “Rarely do we have such a perfect combination of a proven ratings performer, an outstanding cast and inquiries from buyers all over the world. The timing couldn’t be better for our international distribution team to bring this hit series to the content industry conference MIPCOM next month in Cannes.”