Banijay UK Appoints Director of Programs

Banijay UK has tapped entertainment format producer Claire O’Donohoe as director of programs.

O’Donohoe will work closely with American buyers to bring U.K. formats from Remarkable Entertainment, Initial and Znak TV to the U.S. market. She will also work on reinvigorating the legacy brands for the U.K.

In her new role, O’Donohoe will work closely with Natalka Znak, the newly appointed CEO of Remarkable, Initial and Znak TV.

Previously, O’Donohoe was a commissioner at FOX and went on to be senior VP and head of current at FOX Alternative Entertainment Studios. She was involved in commissioning and launching hits such as The Masked Singer and I Can See Your Voice. O’Donohoe also spent time at Zodiak US, where she produced formats including Wife Swap and Secret Millionaire. She started her career at ITV Studios and Endemol, executing producing Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother.

“Claire has worked on the most successful entertainment juggernauts on both sides of the Atlantic and is hugely respected throughout the industry,” said Znak. “Her ability to spot a hit and supersize it, together with her contacts and knowledge in both the U.S. and U.K. make her a huge asset to the business.”

O’Donohoe added, “After leaving Endemol over ten years ago to go to the U.S., I’m so excited to be back at a company that was such an integral and influential part of my career. Not only does Banijay have an incredible catalog of legacy formats that are close to my heart, but there is a thrilling amount of new and exciting ideas to bring to both the U.K. and U.S. markets. I’m so happy to be working alongside the incredible teams at Remarkable Entertainment, Initial and Znak TV, and to be reunited with my mentor and the producing powerhouse that is Natalka Znak. It’s an exciting time to be at Banijay, and I can’t wait to get started.”