Critical Content & LEONINE Studios Tie Up

Jenny Daly’s Critical Content has inked a first-look deal with LEONINE Studios, part of the Mediawan Group.

The deal aims to extend the global reach and impact of Critical Content’s formats while providing LEONINE Studios with exclusive first-look opportunities to select formats that have the potential to resonate with German-speaking audiences. Stéfanie Gelinas, executive VP of global formats and development at Critical Content, will help oversee the new partnership.

LEONINE Studios’ nonfiction production companies such as SEO Entertainment are known for adapting hit formats such as Jimmy Fallon’s That’s My Jam and the Belgian hit Down the Road. Other banners under LEONINE include I&u TV, producer of Small vs. Tall, and Madame Zheng Production, which recently optioned the format rights to Hit the Mic and The A Talks.

“LEONINE is a supreme content creator with multiple productions companies, a hugely successful distribution division and a premium licensing strand,” Daly said. “We look forward to tapping into their well of incredible talent and working together to bring new formats to life.”

“Critical Content is renowned for its innovative approach and successful developments,” commented Jochen Köstler, executive VP of nonfiction at LEONINE Studios. “This deal will not only broaden our positioning but also provide exclusive access to exciting IP, aligning with our key strategic goals. Our nonfiction production companies will have the opportunity to adapt ideas that resonate with the German market, leveraging the award-winning talent within our group.”

Nina Etspüler, head of development at LEONINE Studios and managing director of Madame Zheng Production, added, “The deal with Critical Content is key to our ambition to deliver a roster of innovative ideas to linear channels and streaming platforms in Germany. A diverse pool of ideas is essential as we strive to surprise and engage our audience.”