Fremantle, Wattpad Webtoon Studios set Euro-focused development pact

European production and distribution outfit Fremantle is partnering with Wattpad Webtoon Studios, the entertainment division of story-sharing platforms Wattpad and Webtoon, to develop a slate of European projects.

Christian Vesper

Under the deal, the companies will identify and coproduce Spanish-, Italian- and English-language stories from across Wattpad and Webtoon’s platforms with a view to adapting them for the screen.

Fremantle and Wattpad Webtoon Studios will work with the original authors of the stories and use data-backed insights to guide the process.

Wattpad Webtoon Studios officially formed last year following the acquisition of Wattpad by South Korean internet giant Naver. The deal comes as it looks to make further inroads into the international marketplace. The combined studio division currently has more than 100 projects in development or production worldwide. Its other recent partnerships include a pact with ViacomCBS International Studios to develop a slate of original series.

Meanwhile, for Fremantle, the deal comes amid a continued flurry of M&A activity and talent deals, including its recent majority acquisition of Normal People producer Element Pictures and development deals with graphic novel producer AWA Studios and producer Sarah Condon’s US prodco Fair Harbor Productions.

“Sourcing diverse narratives from around the world is important to us at Fremantle to ensure we reflect the local stories and experiences of our global audiences. Partnering with Wattpad Webtoon Studios will enable us to connect with a new world of creatives, helping amplify their voices beyond the page to the world stage,” said Christian Vesper, president, global drama, Fremantle.

Aron Levitz, president of Wattpad Webtoon Studios, added: “By working with Fremantle, we’ll be able to supercharge our success in European markets while helping our creators and their stories reach new audiences.”