Gil: digital giants to dominate formats

MIPFORMATS: Tech firms such as Apple and Netflix will lead an unscripted revival over the next 24 months, usurping risk-averse broadcasters, according to the CEO of Israeli producer and distributor Gil Formats.

Assaf Gil told delegates at MipFormats in Cannes this weekend that digital platforms are providing new business opportunities for format developers after a decade when the traditional TV industry has become “stale.”

“It has a lot to do with the financial situation of broadcasters all over the world. They’re not taking risks and instead are rebooting old classics, some of which are very good shows. But there’s a big problem with broadcasters not taking risks,” said Gil.

“I feel the big hope for unscripted television is the digital platforms, which are just beginning to emerge. My take is that within a year or two they will lead the unscripted revival, which format developers are really striving for,” added Gil.

Gil Formats produces the Israeli versions of international shows such as MasterChef and Undercover Boss while exporting in-house developed programmes like Pregnant & Platonic.

Gil claimed to be in talks with two digital platforms regarding the company’s formats, but admitted that the tech firm’s lack of track record in TV content means they are mysterious buyers.

“I have no clue as to what they want. At Mipcom I sat with one of them and pitched them the whole catalogue, they showed an interest in two formats that I never thought would interest them,” said Gil.

He was speaking during a session to discuss the recent C21 Trends Report: State of the Formats Nation, which picked out Netflix unscripted originals Queer Eye and Ultimate Beastmaster, as well as Apple’s Carpool Karaoke, among the 10 shows to have made an impact over the past 12 months.

During the same session, SVT content strategist Markus Sterky told delegates the Swedish public broadcaster is beginning to prioritise its online output over broadcast as SVoD platforms tighten their grip on viewers.