Pilgrim Pacts with WSL Studios to Create Surf-Centric Content

Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group and the World Surf League’s (WSL) newly established studio arm, WSL Studios, have partnered for a co-development deal to produce surf-centric sport and lifestyle content across all formats and platforms.

Currently in the pipeline through the partnership are a feature documentary and an unscripted competition format for which the parties joined forces with the UFC’s Dana White. Several other programs are in active development. Together, Pilgrim Media Group and WSL Studios plan to create traditional surf content such as contests and clip shows as well as content that will shed light on surf culture.

WSL President of Content and Media Erik Logan said: “Partnering with Pilgrim from the onset of WSL Studios sets the bar for the level of quality we are endeavoring to achieve. Their talent for producing top-notch unscripted programming, particularly when it comes to emerging sports, and their unmatched ability to capture the inaccessible for audiences around the world make Pilgrim an incredible partner for the WSL.”

Craig Piligian, Pilgrim founder and CEO, added: “This collaboration embodies the true intent of media in breaking ground and erasing boundaries. It’s about bringing to new audiences a sport and a way of life that has been geographically confined to ocean coastlines. We’re really excited to collaborate with WSL in this truly unique space.”