Scandinavian Deal for Lionsgate Charlie Sheen Comedy

CANNES: Lionsgate International has sold the new Charlie Sheen comedy Anger Management to Viasat Broadcasting’s free-TV channels in Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

The pact with the Modern Times Group-owned group follows deals on the show in Canada, Latin America and Germany. Anger Management marks Sheen’s return to television following his exit from Two and a Half Men. It is loosely based on the 2003 theatrical of the same name from Revolution Studios, focusing on an ex-baseball pro (Sheen) who has to cope with his own anger management issues. It premieres in the U.S. on FX in June, with the cable network having ordered 100 episodes, subject to the first ten reaching a certain ratings level.

"We’re delighted to be partnered with Lionsgate International on this exciting series," said Jakob Mejlhede, Viasat’s senior VP of acquisitions and programming. "With a global star of Sheen’s magnitude to drive the show, we’re confident that Anger Management will deliver to both viewers and advertisers alike."

"We believe that Viasat is the perfect home for Anger Management in Scandinavia, and we’re delighted to continue building the show’s momentum through groundbreaking sales in territories around the world," said Peter Iacono, Lionsgate international TV’s managing director. "We expect this show to quickly become a signature of Viasat’s programming lineup and resonate with their audiences for years to come."