BBC Studios in First-Look Pact with Gobstopper Group

BBC Studios has entered into a first-look deal with Gobstopper Group, securing priority access to the format slates of Gobstopper, Flying Saucer TV and the newly launched Mermaid Studios.

Gobstopper is responsible for hits like Just Tattoo of Us (MTV International) and Plastic Surgery Undressed (BBC Three). Flying Saucer has most recently produced the Jordan Banjo-fronted format Lose Weight Like Me for Channel 4, which will form part of the first-look deal. Gobstopper expects to invest in further new labels in 2021.

Mark Linsey, BBC Studios’ chief creative officer, said: “We’re really excited to be working with Ross, Amy and the teams within the Gobstopper Group again. Their slates and development plans wowed us when we saw them; they’re brimming with quality, shot through with the uniqueness you come to expect of the Gobstopper brand. They’ll be a superb addition to our existing catalog and we can’t wait to have them on board.”

Amy McCarthy, chief executive of Gobstopper Group, added “BBC Studios was a champion of Gobstopper when we first set up the business six years ago and their passion and excitement for our projects is clear when we talk to them. We know that the team share our ambition for the slate and will do everything they can to support and nurture them. As a creative, that’s all you could ever want from your distributor.”