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IM, Gurin launch unscripted arm

US producer and distributor IM Global Television is launching an unscripted division led by veteran content creator Phil Gurin.

Phil Gurin

Phil Gurin

IM, which sold a majority stake to US and Chinese finance firm Tang Media Partners and partnered with Chinese tech giant Tencent in June, is opening an unscripted and alternative arm as part of its ongoing expansion strategy.

Gurin, founder of The Gurin Company and producer of hit formats including Shark Tank, The Weakest Link and Singing Bee, will lead the new venture as president of unscripted and alternative content.

He will report to IM Global Television CEO Stuart Ford. The Gurin Company will remain in existence with Gurin at the helm and continue to produce its slate of broadcast and cable television shows.

With IM Gurin will lead a team that will create, acquire and co-develop ideas in all unscripted and alternative genres. The division is designed to complement IM’s scripted operation which is overseen by Ford and led by president Mark Stern.

Eli Shibley, president of IM Global’s international TV distribution and coproductions operation, and his team will represent international rights to content produced by Gurin’s division.

Gurin said: “The opportunity to build a robust unscripted and alternative studio, backed by the international resources of TMP, IM Global and Chinese internet giant Tencent Holdings immediately allows us to compete alongside the biggest players in the unscripted space.

“We will instantly look to build a strong creative team here in Los Angeles, as well as in London, China and Latin America.”

The move follows IM’s hiring of Academy Award-winning producer Greg Shapiro as president of feature film production and the consummation of a multi-year first-look TV deal with acclaimed writer David Goyer (Batman Begins, The Dark Knight).

The announcement was made in LA today by IM Global’s executive chairman Donald Tang and Ford.

  

 

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