Roughcut & Fremantle in Drama Development Deal

Fremantle and Roughcut TV (Big Boys, Stath Lets Flats, Cuckoo, Coma) have signed a first-look drama development deal.

The deal will see Fremantle become the primary home for Roughcut TV’s scripted drama projects, with the producer working closely with Fremantle’s global drama and international distribution divisions. The two companies recently collaborated on the psychological thriller Little Disasters for Paramount+, starring Diane Kruger (Troy, Inglourious Basterds), Jo Joyner (The Wives, For Her Sins), Shelley Conn (Gen V, Alex Rider) and Emily Taaffe (The Rising, The Beast Must Die).

Ash Atalla, CEO of Roughcut Television, said: “This Fremantle deal is a game-changing moment for Roughcut as we accelerate our push into drama. Our goal is to build fast and become one of a new generation of global drama suppliers. And with the success of Coma, and recently commissioned Little Disasters, the work starts now.”

Rebecca Dundon, senior VP of scripted content for international at Fremantle, said: “Roughcut’s commercial sensibility and brilliant creative vision lead by Ash, Alex and Marianna is making for an exciting slate of original, contemporary drama series that feel in tune with what audiences and buyers are actively seeking both locally and globally. We’re excited to start our drama journey with the highly anticipated Diane Kruger-fronted thriller Little Disasters and can’t wait to surprise, entertain and inspire audiences across the world with their wider drama ambitions as these projects move from page to screen.”