Banijay Entertainment picks up global rights to TBS obstacle course format Ninja Warrior

Ninja Warrior originated on TBS with the title Sasuke

European production giant Banijay Entertainment has acquired the worldwide distribution rights, excluding Asia, the US, Germany, France and Poland, to hit sports entertainment series Ninja Warrior, created by Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS).

The deal builds on the strategic partnership between the two companies announced earlier this year and brings the much-travelled format into Banijay’s portfolio of unscripted brands, alongside the likes of MasterChef, Big Brother and Pointless.

Launched in 1997 by TBS, where it was known as Sasuke, the obstacle course challenge has since been adapted in more than 20 countries.

Banijay says that the new deal will enable it to scale and relaunch the format globally through its network of labels worldwide. Ninja Warrior now joins the company’s slate of third-party unscripted shows for Mipcom, which also includes Let’s Play Ball, Football Island, Villa of Temptations and Foodish.

The agreement was brokered by Helen Greatorex, head of format acquisitions at Banijay Entertainment.

James Townley, chief content officer at Banijay Entertainment, said: “We feel incredibly fortunate to bring a universally loved and recognisable show like Ninja Warrior into our portfolio of superbrands.

“This is classic sportainment at its very best, packed with intense jeopardy, physical prowess and competitive energy. With our expertise in refreshing iconic formats, we are well-placed to evolve this brand, building on the momentum from TBS.”

Katsuaki Seto, executive officer for global business at TBS, said: “This new partnership is an exciting step for our signature format, Ninja Warrior.

“With Banijay Entertainment’s amazing expertise in development, production and distribution, we are confident in the format’s continued growth and global reach. Guided by our business purpose – Inspiring Global Love for Japan through Timeless Moments – we look forward to delivering this iconic physical gameshow to even more countries and audiences worldwide.”