Fremantle Acquires Naked Television

Fremantle has bought 100 percent of Naked Television and appointed founder Simon Andreae as CEO for its U.K. business.

Reporting to Group CEO Jennifer Mullin, Andreae will now oversee output from all Fremantle’s U.K. labels: Thames, Talkback, Boundless, Euston Films, Hare & Tortoise, Castlefield and Naked. He will also take a seat on Fremantle’s global operating board. Andreae succeeds Liam Humphreys, who has stepped down from his role as CEO of Fremantle UK.

Fremantle had acquired a minority stake in the unscripted startup in 2015 and will now have 100 percent ownership, with Naked’s COO Susie Dark and Creative Director Tom O’Brien assuming the day-to-day running of the business.

Andreae said: “I’m extremely proud of the brand we’ve built at Naked and am looking forward to supporting both them and Fremantle’s other world-class production labels as we shape a truly creative, collaborative and future-facing studio group.”

Mullin commented: “I am thrilled that Simon will helm our U.K. business. Simon knows how to make great content and has a terrific track-record in taking bold risks to create ambitious shows. He’s an inspiring, inclusive leader and brings an enormous amount of energy and creativity. I can’t wait to see what he creates in this new role.”

Mullin added: “Liam joined us to focus on creative renewal across our U.K. unscripted labels and our recent award wins are testament to his success. I would like to thank Liam for his leadership and great contribution over the last three years and wish him well for the future.”

Humphreys said: “I’ve had a wonderful time at Fremantle, it’s been a privilege to lead Boundless, Talkback and Thames working with some of the best production teams in the business. I feel now is the right time for me to return to a closer relationship with content which is where I have my most ambitious plans. I wish Fremantle every success with their next chapter.”