DRG Enters First-Look Deal with Magnum Media

LONDON: DRG and Magnum Media, which has produced such titles as Duck Quacks Don’t Echo, have forged a first-look deal that initially covers a two-year period.

Under the pact, all of Magnum’s current shows in development and future content will be distributed by DRG, and DRG will also pick up the rights to selected titles in the company’s back-catalog. Magnum has a number of formats in development with broadcasters. The first new show that DRG will distribute is The Twelve Stars of Christmas. Existing formats that come into the new output deal include magic show Trick Artist and Chris Moyles’ Quiz Night.

“Magnum Media is without a doubt one of the most creative and commercial independent format producers working in the U.K. today,” says Katy Cundall, the senior VP of acquisitions at DRG, who brokered the deal. “We are really delighted that they have put their faith in DRG and see us as the best partner to maximize their valuable IP on the international market.

“Andy and Dean have outstanding pedigrees when it comes to creating and delivering great formats in the U.K. DRG has extensive experience of taking formats and making them massive international hits (for example Don’t Tell the Bride, now in 15 territories). So, I am confident that our combined talents will ensure a very positive future for us both.”

Andy Auerbach from Magnum Media commented: “DRG is exactly what we are looking for in a distribution partner as it combines the deal-making experience of a global distributor with the passion and entrepreneurial spirit of a small company. As such, it is a perfect fit for Magnum and we are thrilled to be working with the DRG team to create the next big global format.”