TF1 Group to Take Full Control of Newen Studios

Following its acquisition of 70 percent of Newen Studios in 2016, TF1 Group has inked a deal to buy out the remaining 30 percent of the company.

As a result of the 100-percent takeover—which is subject to clearance from the French Competition Authority—Fabrice Larue, chairman of Newen Studios, will leave the group. Bibiane Godfroid, who has been executive VP of content since 2015, will become CEO of the Newen group, with STUDIOCANAL alum Romain Bessi set to serve as deputy CEO.

Newen Studios consists of an audiovisual production and distribution arm, Newen, as well as a digital division, Neweb, which publishes product recommendation websites. TF1 plans to continue developing the Newen group and Neweb in line with the strategy implemented in 2016. The Newen group will maintain its editorial freedom and commercial independence.

Gilles Pélisson, chairman and CEO of TF1 Group, remarked: “I would like to thank the founding team members at Newen, and pay tribute to the talent and commitment they have shown in building Newen into a permanent feature of the audiovisual landscape. This agreement confirms TF1’s desire to accelerate the growth of Newen, while respecting its editorial freedom and commercial independence. I have every confidence in Bibiane Godfroid and Romain Bessi, whose career paths and professionalism make them ideally suited to take the Newen group forward.”

Larue added: “Newen Studios is an outstanding company, with high-quality brands and some exceptional talents. The support of TF1 has secured its future, and with Bibiane Godfroid at the helm continuity is guaranteed. The development of the company has been built on the key managers having an interest in the capital.”