MIPCOM Spotlight: A+E Networks

Among A+E Networks’ scripted highlights is Knightfall, an upcoming period drama from A+E Studios.

“The series goes well beyond stories of romance and history with evolving storylines designed to establish a wide breadth of audience appeal,” says Ellen Lovejoy, the company’s VP, head of content sales for the Americas and formats. Blue Book, which comes from Oscar winner Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump), “chronicles the true top-secret United States Air Force-sponsored investigations into UFO-related phenomena in the 1950s and 1960s,” says Lovejoy. “This is the origin story of everything we know about UFOs and aliens in pop culture.” There is also Cocaine Godmother, a forthcoming TV movie that sees Academy Award winner Catherine Zeta-Jones portray Miami drug lord Griselda Blanco.

“We seek out relevant stories to tell with top talent on both sides of the camera,” Lovejoy says.

The Emmy-winning docuseries Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath follows the titular actress as she tells the shocking stories of abuse, heartbreak and harassment experienced by those who have left the Church of Scientology. A+E Networks is also presenting How the World Made America, which “uncovers the great forces that set mankind in motion,” says Lovejoy. “It’s an epic, premium, global documentary about the greatest migrations of all time, and the repercussions that they have had—culturally, sociologically and politically—on our present nation.” Another highlight is America’s War on Drugs, which zeroes in on the ecstasy trade that is believed to be controlled by Israeli organized crime, according to Interpol and U.S. Customs.

“A+E Networks is a destination for fact-seekers; truth is the primary strand of our DNA,” Lovejoy adds.

Setting the new trend of live formats is Live PD, one of A+E Networks’ highlights, which looks on as dash cams along with fixed-rig and handheld cameras capture the work of police officers on a typical night patrol. “Our newest format, Live PD, is among the most innovative in the media landscape,” says Lovejoy. “The groundbreaking series comes to MIPCOM on the heels of significant success in the U.S. on A&E, where Live PD continues to set ratings records.”

The company is also showcasing Undercover High, which sees six adults secretly explore some of the most troubled schools in America, and Making a Model with…, featuring a boot camp for aspiring young models and their “momangers.”

“We are a distinct seller within the marketplace with engaging content that reflects the cultural zeitgeist,” says Lovejoy.