Smithsonian Channel Boards 4K Pyramids Project

Smithsonian Channel has come on board an epic 4K docudrama series about the building of the ancient Egyptian Pyramids from Vivendi Entertainment and Pernel Media.

Smithsonian Channel, which is now a co-production partner, will join Vivendi-owned Canal+ Group in broadcasting Secrets of the Pyramid Builders. The series was initially ordered for the C8 and Planète+ channels, with Vivendi Entertainment distributing the program globally. The 6×45-minute series takes viewers into the heart of the construction of the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx of Giza. It combines 4K fictional scenes shot on location in Morocco with the latest archaeological research shot in Egypt, expert interviews and CGI reconstructions.

“‘We are delighted that Smithsonian Channel has come on board to co-produce Secrets of the Pyramid Builders in a deal that will scale up this hugely ambitious docudrama to even further heights, as well as giving it a home in the U.S.,” said Samuel Kissous, president of Pernel Media.

“Smithsonian Channel prides itself on bringing ambitious programs to its audience,” said David Royle, executive VP and chief programming officer at Smithsonian Channel. “We are excited to partner with Pernel Media on a series that is epic in scale. Secrets of the Pyramid Builders promises a dramatic and revelatory look at the people who engineered one of mankind’s greatest achievements and founded civilization as we know it.”

“Getting Smithsonian Channel onboard so early confirms Vivendi and Canal+ Group’s decision to fund this series was the right one. Its universal theme and unique take will lead to the announcement of more territories’ licenses soon!,” said Matthieu Porte, executive VP of international and development at Vivendi Entertainment.