US syndication giant EW Scripps has acquired broadcast network ION Media for US$2.65bn in a deal backed by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway.

Walter Presents has acquired the rights to Austrian drama Maria Theresa for its service in the UK, New Zealand and North America.

HBO Europe has started production on original dramas in Romania and Poland, while renewing its Norwegian scripted series Beforeigners for a second season.

Disney+ Hotstar in India has ordered a second season of its local adaptation of BBC psychological drama Doctor Foster.

BBC Studios will leave its Tower Productions joint venture with All3Media at the end of the year and set up its own German production arm.

The distribution arm of Discovery- and Liberty Global-owned All3Media has partnered with Scottish indie Two Rivers Media to support development and handle sales of new projects.

The president and CEO of Mipcom and MipTV organiser Reed Midem is stepping down to be succeeded by his equivalent at sister company Reed Expositions France.

UK indie producer Plimsoll Productions has taken full ownership of Andrea Jackson’s distribution outfit Magnify Media.

The distribution arm of Discovery- and Liberty Global-owned All3Media has hired former Endemol Shine executive Mike Gould to bolster its digital business.

ViacomCBS-owned Comedy Central has greenlit a pair of original series in the UK, fronted by comedians Sara Pascoe and Jon Richardson.