RTL acquires first Brazilian drama

European broadcaster RTL Group has acquired a Brazilian drama for pay TV net RTL Crime in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg.

Merciless, a dark crime thriller in which a charismatic serial killer infiltrates the police, is heading to the channel following a deal with the commercial arm of Brazilian broadcaster Globo.

The network is due to air the show, which is written by Glória Perez, in July. It marks the first time RTL Group has acquired a Brazilian drama.

RTL Group head of digital division programmes Klaus Holtmann said: “Merciless is a perfectly crafted, emotional, edgy and, last but not least, a very scary serial killer series that easily surpasses the international market standard.”

Globo is due to feature the series, along with dramas such as Vade Retro, at the Berlinale market in Germany this week. It is the second time Globo will attend the event.