ITVS GE Purchases Stake in Monumental Television

LONDON: ITV Studios Global Entertainment (ITVS GE) has acquired a minority stake in the indie Monumental Television, which was founded by the film producers Alison Owen and Debra Hayward.

Owen previously founded Ruby Film and Television, which produced the Oscar-nominated movies Saving Mr. Banks and Jane Eyre, as well as the TV productions Case Histories, Dancing on the Edge and Temple Grandin. Hayward most recently produced the Golden Globe-winning film Les Misérables. She previously was the head of films at Working Title.

The new acquisition sees ITVS GE exclusively distributing all TV productions from Monumental, which is already in advanced development on a number of scripted series.

Ruth Clarke, the executive VP of global content and co-productions at ITVS GE, said: "In our increasingly international industry this is a fantastic time for drama production; the opportunities in scripted television are enticing major talent from the film industry. Alison and Debra are prolific and highly respected film producers, with world-class contacts. We have been blown away by their development slate of high-end drama which will bring a cinematic approach to the small screen."

"The international television landscape has changed out of all recognition", says Owen. 'It's not just that the wall between television and film has collapsed, it's that the digital business has opened up a whole new space that is ready to house drama every bit as cinematic as movies, full of high-quality writing and just as attractive to A-list talent," commented Owen.

Hayward added, "Since Alison and I formed Monumental, television has been at the heart of our vision for the new company. Ruth Clarke and her team understand the changing landscape better than anyone and we are excited to be partnering with them."