CW Digital Acquires Original Comedy from Smokebomb

TORONTO/LOS ANGELES: CW Digital (CWD) has purchased Backpackers, an original online comedy series, from Smokebomb Entertainment, the digital media arm of Shaftesbury.

Backpackers revolves around Ryan and Brandon, two friends who are looking for Ryan’s fiancée in Europe. The live-action show includes straight-play narrative and will feature an interactive app that allows users to choose their own adventures.

Meant for viewers between the ages of 18 and 34, Backpackers is set to be filmed on location in Europe in the spring. The 8×6-minute show will be delivered to CWD in the second quarter of 2013.

"The sale to CW Digital guarantees an exciting North American launch for Backpackers, representing a new opportunity for broadcast and digital media to come together to create content,” said Maggie Murphy, co-head of Shaftesbury U.S.

"We are delighted to have CWD on board with Backpackers," added Jay Bennett, the VP and creative director of Smokebomb Entertainment. "As one of several original digital series that Smokebomb has to offer, Backpackers represents the culmination of the best of television, interactive and social content."