Leaving Neverland Doc Sells into More Markets

Kew Media Distribution (KMD) has inked deals in every territory in the world, excluding China, for Leaving Neverland, a documentary that explores the accounts of sexual abuse from two men who pop star Michael Jackson had befriended in their youth.

The two-part doc has been acquired by Discovery Nove in Italy, NRK in Norway, LTV in Latvia, RTL in Belgium, LRT in Lithuania, ProSieben and Joyn in Germany, Network 10 in Australia, HBO Latin America, DR in Denmark, VPRO in Netherlands, SVT in Sweden, M-Net in Africa, Channel One in Russia, VRT in Belgium, Television New Zealand (TVNZ), Yes in Israel, Amedia TV in Russia, YLE in Finland, Fox Networks Group in Asia, Front Row Filmed Entertainment for broadcasters in the Middle East, RUV in Iceland, M6 in France, HBO in Portugal, Movistar+ in Spain and HBO Europe, operating in Central Europe.

In Leaving Neverland, James Safechuck and Wade Robson—who were 10 and 7, respectively, when they met Jackson—share their stories that paint a picture of sustained abuse. They also address the complicated feelings that led them to confront their experiences with the late singer. A co-production from Channel 4 and HBO, the documentary was directed by Dan Reed. More than 194 countries have aired or are set to air Leaving Neverland, which has been nominated for five Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Documentary or Non-Fiction Special.

Reed said: “Since Leaving Neverland aired in March, it has launched many important conversations about child sexual abuse and the grooming that accompanies it. This was why James and Wade and their families spoke out, and why we made the documentary. We’re delighted that the Television Academy has honored that purpose—and our dedicated creative team—with five Emmy Award nominations.”

Jonathan Ford, executive VP of sales at KMD, added: “Leaving Neverland has seen unparalleled interest from broadcasters and platforms worldwide. KMD is one of the leading distributors of outstanding documentary programs, with the necessary expertise and experience to work with producers to ensure a hard-hitting, controversial film of this exceptional caliber receives the global audience it deserves.”