Sony Buys into Left Bank Pictures

LONDON: In a move that bolsters its scripted production efforts in the U.K., Sony Pictures Television (SPT) has purchased a majority stake in Left Bank Pictures.

SPT will distribute future finished TV programs and formats from the Left Bank catalogue and also has a first-look distribution option on feature films produced by the British outfit. Left Bank’s credits include Wallander (BBC), Mad Dogs (Sky), Strike Back (Sky/HBO Cinemax), Cardinal Burns (E4) and DCI Banks (ITV). This is SPT’s fourth U.K. production venture, alongside Gogglebox Entertainment, Victory Television and Silver River.

Andy Harries and Marigo Kehoe, the founders of Left Bank, will continue to lead the company from its existing London office. Harries will now report into Andrea Wong, the president of international production for Sony Pictures Television (SPT).

Wong said: “I’m very excited to welcome Left Bank Pictures to our global production family. Powered by the outstanding creative talent of Andy, Marigo and their team, Left Bank is justifiably admired in the U.K. and internationally, making it the perfect complement to our diverse U.K. portfolio.”

Harries added: “This is a brilliant opportunity for Left Bank and we are thrilled by the new partnership with SPT. I am a huge admirer of Andrea Wong and her energy and enthusiasm for our work is incredibly encouraging. This marks the start of a new phase of ambitious quality drama from us for the international market place.”

Kehoe commented: “Andrea Wong has a clear vision of SPT’s future as a content provider in the global marketplace and has an impressive take on both the business and creative sides of the business. We are excited by the potential of this new partnership.”