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Chernin proposes Endemol merger

US producer The Chernin Group has held talks with a view to a possible merger with global production house Endemol, according to reports.

Peter Chernin is in discussions with Core Media Group, which produces American Idol, and Big Brother creator Endemol, the LA Times has reported.

Any deal is likely to be backed by Providence Equity Partners, which this year invested US$200m in The Chernin Group, which produces New Girl, Touch and Ben & Kate for US television.

At the time, Chernin said the financial boost would help it to become “a global, diversified media company.”

Endemol would not comment today on the proposed merger, though a spokesman said internal discussions about its debt-financing issues were progressing at a shareholder level.

“The business is as strong as ever and, creatively, we have over 50 brand new Endemol formats in production around the world. The business is in rude health,” he said.

Endemol has been dogged by speculation surrounding its future as it continues the lengthy process of restructuring its debts.

Earlier this year, Italian broadcaster Mediaset sold its 6% stake in the company, leaving Apollo Global Management and John de Mol-backed Cyrte as majority shareholders.

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