BBC Studios Signs Two New First-Look Deals

BBC Studios has entered into two new first-look deals with the U.K.’s Magnum Media and Los Angeles-based Fandom Fiction.

Magnum Media, founded in 2009 by Andy Auerbach and Dean Nabarro, produces studio-entertainment formats, quiz shows and reality formats. Started by Tim Byrne and Diana Howie, Fandom Fiction devises international formats for prime-time entertainment, scripted and music. BBC Studios is handling international rights for all projects from both partnerships.

Magnum counts among its credits six seasons of the Sky One entertainment show Duck Quacks Don’t Echo, which was remade in the U.S., France, Germany and Italy, and the comedy talent show Don’t Stop Me Now, remade in Indonesia, Chile, Ukraine, Thailand, Spain and currently on its seventh season in China.

Fandom Fiction’s Byrne served as creative director for Simon Cowell’s entertainment company Syco Entertainment for ten years and was one of the driving forces behind the X Factor and Got Talent global franchises, while Diana Howie is an award-winning TV producer.

“We are delighted to be working with a world-class corporation such as BBC Studios, and we’re eager to continue delivering entertainment shows of the highest quality—and this time further afield to an international audience,” Byrne said.

Auerbach said: “BBC Studios Distribution combines a formidable global reach with invaluable local industry insight and Magnum is thrilled to be working with their hugely talented team to find the next big format.”

Mark Linsey, BBC Studios’ chief creative officer, added: “Both Magnum Media and Fandom Fiction are creative, innovative companies with deep industry relationships. We are thrilled to be working with Magnum Media who have a fantastic track record of creating shows with international appeal, and Fandom Fiction who have such pedigree in creating enduring prime-time shows and also a roster of great talent relationships.”