BBC Studios, Lionsgate pair in US

MIPCOM: The commercial and production arm of UK pubcaster the BBC, and US studio Lionsgate, are partnering to jointly create original programming and scripted formats for the US.

BBC Studios and Lionsgate Television have teamed up to identify, co-develop and co-fund scripted formats and original intellectual property for the US market.

As part of the first-look agreement, the parties will create original series and draw upon formats from the BBC catalogue.

The BBC Studios production unit in Los Angeles is best known for scripted formats Getting On and The Night Of for HBO, as well as unscripted brands Dancing with the Stars (ABC) and Life Below Zero (National Geographic Channel).

The aim of the deal is to combine British creativity and premium content with Lionsgate’s experience of producing scripted programming for multiple platforms in the US.

Matt Forde, the recently appointed MD of international production and formats for BBC Studios, said: “BBC Studios productions is known for showcasing the best content with British DNA. We’re looking forward to this creative partnership with Lionsgate Television to more readily bring this to US audiences, and beyond.”