MGM Television in First-Look Deal with Watership Down Producer

MGM Television has signed a new multiyear production deal with the management and production company 42 to identify and co-develop scripted series across platforms and genres for the U.S. market.

As part of the exclusive first-look agreement, the companies will create original scripted programming and draw on MGM’s library of IP to broaden its production slate. 42’s TV projects include the Emmy Award-winning Watership Down, as well as Channel 4/Netflix’s Traitors and ITV’s Wild Bill. 42 is currently in production with Julian Fellowes on The English Game, a six-part drama series for Netflix.

“This year, MGM celebrates the 100th Anniversary of United Artists and in today’s crowded television landscape, UA’s and MGM’s legacy of putting the creative first is more critical than ever,” said MGM’s president of television production and development, Steve Stark. “Our partnership with the dynamic team of managers and producers who form 42 will allow us to collaborate with global top-tier talent who can continue our long legacy of creating distinctive, quality series across the globe.”

“MGM has quickly become a formidable producer of high-quality, creatively-fulfilling television content and we’re thrilled to partner with them on this new venture,” said Josh Varney and Ben Pugh, partners at 42. “As we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure in the U.S, we remain committed to working with the best talent and telling the best stories. Steve and his world-class team, and MGM’s vast library, affords us endless opportunities to do just that.”