FTD, Samka to adapt Israeli drama

France Télévisions Distribution (FTD) and compatriot prodco Samka have signed a deal to co-adapt foreign dramas and picked up format rights to an Israeli series.

Under the agreement, FTD and Samka aim to co-develop six foreign scripted formats over the next two years.

The duo’s first adaptation will be Israeli crime series Pillars of Smoke (aka Timrot Ashan, 18×48’), from Herzelia Studio. The pair is also working together with Israeli producer TTV on another project.

The alliance with FTD represents Samka’s first move into drama production. Originally an animation company, the firm is headed by Samuel and Stéphane Kaminka and past series include I.N.K. Invisible and Marsupilami. Its latest project is Jamie’s Got Tentacles.