GRB Picks Up Tyler Perry Series & Maxim TV, Makes Raft of Sales

CANNES: GRB Entertainment has added to its catalogue the scripted Tyler Perry series For Better or Worse, along with the Maxim TV portfolio, and has made multiple sales for its existing titles, including agreements with Discovery and BSkyB.

For Better or Worse is produced for TBS and OWN by Tyler Perry Studios. The series is based on characters from Perry's hit film Why Did I Get Married?

“We are thrilled to partner with Tyler Perry and Tyler Perry Studios to take For Better or Worse to the international marketplace,” said Gary Benz, the president and CEO of GRB Entertainment. “This unique and hilarious series is a perfect addition to GRB’s rapidly expanding scripted catalogue. We are confident that broadcasters and audiences alike will absolutely fall in love with these characters.”

Additionally, GRB announced the acquisition of Maxim TV at MIPCOM, adding to its catalogue of more than 2,000 hours of award-winning programming from the iconic magazine brand.

“GRB Entertainment is known for edgy and provocative programming and Maxim TV fits very well with our many factual and lifestyle programs,” said Mike Lolato, GRB’s senior VP of international distribution. “This tempting new series will be sure to fetch ratings for our partners.”

GRB also announced a slew of deals from its 2,000-plus-hour catalogue. This included sales into Africa, with seasons one and two of Inside West Coast Customs heading to Ignition and three seasons of For Better or Worse and the show Princes of Malibu going to Mnet.

In Asia, When Ghosts Attack was picked up by Celestial Movie Channel. Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific opted for two seasons of Inside West Coast Customs. Foxtel Management acquired Killer Legends and When Ghosts Attack for Australia and New Zealand.

Fox Incendo bagged King of Thrones for Canal Vie to air in French-speaking Canada.

A number of deals were wrapped across Europe, including Discovery Poland picking up seasons seven, eight and nine of Untold Stories of the E.R. In Italy, Discovery went for Wives with Beehives. Discovery also took on season one of Auction King to air in Benelux, France, Italy and the Nordic territories.

Discovery in Latin America scooped up two seasons of Untold Stories from the E.R., while four seasons of the show were sold to Intrasa Canal 4 Nicaragua. That channel also licensed Is It Possible.

BSkyB did a deal with GRB for the rights to Cellblock 6, Confessions: Animal Hoarding, Killer Legends, Monsters & Mysteries and Unleashed: K9 Broward County. UKTV purchased When Ghosts Attack.

“GRB Entertainment is having its best MIPCOM to-date, with many sales in many territories. We are known the world over for having the best in factual and lifestyle to offer our partners; and now we also have top scripted programs from Tyler Perry,” said Lolato. “We bring great shows that ensure top ratings that are viewer favorites.”