FremantleMedia Invests in U.K. Factual Indie Label1

FremantleMedia is investing in the U.K. indie Label1, which specializes in factual.

FremantleMedia will take a 25-percent stake in the factual producer, which is led by co-founders Simon Dickson and Lorraine Charker-Phillips. Label1 is the creator and producer of hit returning series such as The Job Interview for Channel 4 and Hospital for BBC Two. The factual outfit recently announced the commission of the six-part series School for BBC Two and is in funded development on a number of new projects for British broadcasters.

Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia Group, said, “Simon, Lorraine and Jo have been behind some of the most talked-about and eye-catching factual programs of recent years, and together they have helped build Label1 into one of the U.K.’s most dynamic and disruptive indies. Through our new partnership, we look forward to working with Label1, supporting their ambitious plans for growth, and strengthening Fremantle’s commitment to high-quality factual content.”

Dickson said: “Choosing an investment partner is an important decision but FremantleMedia made it easy for us. We were impressed by their global ambition and by the personalities and skills of the individuals in their management team. They made a compelling case for how we could bring something new and distinctive to their mix. Most importantly, they like how Lorraine, Jo and I approach our work, and the types of programs we’re creating. We’re delighted to have them on board for the next stage of our journey.”

Charker-Phillips added: “The next few months are going to be exciting ones for everyone at Label1. We’ve just started production on School for BBC Two, which under the terms of our new partnership with FremantleMedia will be the first of our series they will distribute globally. Added to that, we are on the lookout for a brilliant Head of Development who will oversee our pipeline of new and returning series.  With FremantleMedia’s support, we’re looking forward to realizing the aspirations in our business plan, by making more great shows for the most dynamic and collaborative broadcasters.”