Fremantle launches first Israeli format

MIPTV: FremantleMedia has launched its first ever Israeli format in Cannes following its acquisition of Tel Aviv-based production company Abot Hameiri.

Hear Me. Love Me. See Me – a dating format devised by Abot Hameiri – sets up a singleton with three dates in one day. However, the contestant is not allowed to see what the dates look like.

Instead, the three dates are equipped with cameras that give the single man or woman a chance to view a day in their lives. By switching between the three dates’ feeds, the dater can talk to them, get to know them and see if there is a personality match.

FremantleMedia acquired a 51% majority stake in Abot Hameiri in January, saying at the time the prodco would be its “creative hub” in Israel.

Founded in 2006 by Eitan Abot and Guy Hameiri, the firm has produced a number of local versions of FremantleMedia formats including The X Factor (FremantleMedia/Syco Entertainment), Survivor and Amazing Race.

“We really wanted to make something very fresh and unique with this show,” Hameiri told C21. “Nowadays you make a very quick decision about how you date or don’t date because everything is on your cell phone – you see a picture on your phone and can swing your finger very fast and say yes or no.”

Meanwhile, Rob Clark, director of global entertainment at FremantleMedia, said: “It could work equally well stripped daily or placed in a primetime slot. The trend towards dating shows is continuing to grow and we’re pleased to have such a fresh and different approach to the genre as part of our MipTV slate.”