European TV giant Banijay Entertainment — whose more-than 60 labels have produced recent shows such as “Rogue Heroes,” “Ripley” and “The Rig” — has expanded the roles of two execs as it rejigs its global scripted division.
As part of a new combined leadership structure, Steve Matthews has been named head of scripted, creative and Johannes Jensen head of scripted, business. The two will work in unison and report to chief business officer, Frédéric Balmary, who will continue to lead overall strategic direction.
HBO alumni Matthews joined Banijay as contents partnership executive in early 2023, reporting to Christian Wikander who served as global head of scripted until his departure in Feb. 2024. Since joining he has introduced various initiatives to encourage collaboration across the company’s labels worldwide, alongside setting up the he Banijay Bootcamp to connecting in-house development executives with emerging writers.
Jensen new role extends his current remit as head of scripted for Banijay Nordic,...
As part of a new combined leadership structure, Steve Matthews has been named head of scripted, creative and Johannes Jensen head of scripted, business. The two will work in unison and report to chief business officer, Frédéric Balmary, who will continue to lead overall strategic direction.
HBO alumni Matthews joined Banijay as contents partnership executive in early 2023, reporting to Christian Wikander who served as global head of scripted until his departure in Feb. 2024. Since joining he has introduced various initiatives to encourage collaboration across the company’s labels worldwide, alongside setting up the he Banijay Bootcamp to connecting in-house development executives with emerging writers.
Jensen new role extends his current remit as head of scripted for Banijay Nordic,...
- 1/27/2025
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety Film + TV
Steve Matthews and Johannes Jensen have been handed new roles in Banijay Entertainment’s central scripted division.
Matthews has been named Head of Scripted, Creative, and Jensen Head of Scripted, Business. Together, they will work to support and partner with Banijay’s group of more than 60 scripted labels.
Frédéric Balmary will continue to oversee the overall direction of Banijay’s scripted effort as Chief Business Officer. “As we continue to grow, the refreshed roles for Steve and Johannes will strengthen our creative and business acumen, ensuring we continue to innovate and lead on the global stage,” he said.
Former HBO Europe exec Matthews has been with Banijay since 2023, working as a pivot for the France-based giant’s scripted producers and overseeing global initiatives. He has taken on an even more prominent role since the exit of Christian Wikander this time last year.
Jensen has to this point been Head of Scripted for Banijay Nordic.
Matthews has been named Head of Scripted, Creative, and Jensen Head of Scripted, Business. Together, they will work to support and partner with Banijay’s group of more than 60 scripted labels.
Frédéric Balmary will continue to oversee the overall direction of Banijay’s scripted effort as Chief Business Officer. “As we continue to grow, the refreshed roles for Steve and Johannes will strengthen our creative and business acumen, ensuring we continue to innovate and lead on the global stage,” he said.
Former HBO Europe exec Matthews has been with Banijay since 2023, working as a pivot for the France-based giant’s scripted producers and overseeing global initiatives. He has taken on an even more prominent role since the exit of Christian Wikander this time last year.
Jensen has to this point been Head of Scripted for Banijay Nordic.
- 1/27/2025
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival has unveiled the winners of its TV Beats Co-Financing Market, intended to foster creative collaborations in series co-production and empower independent producers.
Finnish drama “The Women I Think About at Night” took the event’s top honor, the Series Co-Production Development Award and its €50,000 purse, part of the Pilot Program for series co-productions, an initiative of the Council of Europe.
Produced by Liisa Karpo for Napafilms, the project turns on a 40-year-old art teacher with no family who one day abandons her comfortable but unsatisfying life. With the help of a group of fellow courageous women, past artists and explorers from history, she finds a new way of living.
The series is planned to be shot in a wide range of diverse locations as its protagonist explores the world, including Finland, Italy, Japan, Tibet, and Kenya. Anna Ruohonen is the show’s head writer and...
Finnish drama “The Women I Think About at Night” took the event’s top honor, the Series Co-Production Development Award and its €50,000 purse, part of the Pilot Program for series co-productions, an initiative of the Council of Europe.
Produced by Liisa Karpo for Napafilms, the project turns on a 40-year-old art teacher with no family who one day abandons her comfortable but unsatisfying life. With the help of a group of fellow courageous women, past artists and explorers from history, she finds a new way of living.
The series is planned to be shot in a wide range of diverse locations as its protagonist explores the world, including Finland, Italy, Japan, Tibet, and Kenya. Anna Ruohonen is the show’s head writer and...
- 11/20/2024
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Universal International Studios (Uis) head Roma Khanna is exiting after just six months in post.
Details are scarce as to why Khanna is leaving the London role but we are told she will remain for a period of time to work across a number of Uis projects. Beyond confirming her departure, Uis declined comment.
Khanna, a U.S. production vet who used to run Sean ‘Diddy Combs’ company and was previously living in LA, replaced David Donoghue late last year when Donoghue moved to 42. No word from Uis at present on whether Khanna will be directly replaced or the role will be culled.
Khanna reported to Uis President Beatrice Springborn. At the time of her arrival, Universal Studio Group chair Pearlena Igbokwe said Khanna’s “operational expertise in the global marketplace, coupled with Beatrice’s deft creative strategy, will fuel our ambitions and expand our footprint exponentially.”
She made...
Details are scarce as to why Khanna is leaving the London role but we are told she will remain for a period of time to work across a number of Uis projects. Beyond confirming her departure, Uis declined comment.
Khanna, a U.S. production vet who used to run Sean ‘Diddy Combs’ company and was previously living in LA, replaced David Donoghue late last year when Donoghue moved to 42. No word from Uis at present on whether Khanna will be directly replaced or the role will be culled.
Khanna reported to Uis President Beatrice Springborn. At the time of her arrival, Universal Studio Group chair Pearlena Igbokwe said Khanna’s “operational expertise in the global marketplace, coupled with Beatrice’s deft creative strategy, will fuel our ambitions and expand our footprint exponentially.”
She made...
- 7/4/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Nina Lederman, Sony Pictures Television’s global scripted boss, is exiting amid the slowdown.
Veteran TV exec Lederman is leaving in June after six years heading up global scripted development and programing for Spt, with the group understood to be pivoting focus to the core businesses of local international production.
Based in LA, Lederman joined Spt in 2018 to head the global scripted team, working closely with indies in the UK and Australia such as The Crown producer Left Bank, His Dark Materials maker Bad Wolf and Artful Dodger indie Curio Media. As EVP, Global Scripted Development, she worked on development, U.S. pre-sales and international co-productions, with credits including Netflix hit My Life with the Walter Boys and MGM+’s Nine Bodies In A Mexican Morgue.
Lederman will leave in June. Her role is being eliminated and responsibilities being reallocated within the group, we understand, and no others are leaving.
Veteran TV exec Lederman is leaving in June after six years heading up global scripted development and programing for Spt, with the group understood to be pivoting focus to the core businesses of local international production.
Based in LA, Lederman joined Spt in 2018 to head the global scripted team, working closely with indies in the UK and Australia such as The Crown producer Left Bank, His Dark Materials maker Bad Wolf and Artful Dodger indie Curio Media. As EVP, Global Scripted Development, she worked on development, U.S. pre-sales and international co-productions, with credits including Netflix hit My Life with the Walter Boys and MGM+’s Nine Bodies In A Mexican Morgue.
Lederman will leave in June. Her role is being eliminated and responsibilities being reallocated within the group, we understand, and no others are leaving.
- 4/24/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
French TV giant Banijay is losing its second C-suite exec in just over a month.
The company has confirmed to Variety that COO Peter Langenberg is departing, with his last day set to be March 31. Langenberg will remain with Banijay on a consultancy basis in the Esg space. Reasons for his departure were not disclosed.
“Banijay has been my home for eight years and it has been a total pleasure working with the hugely talented leaders and producers across the footprint globally. Together with Stéphane, Marco, and the broader executive team, I have watched the group grow exponentially and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of the business’ journey in becoming the largest European studio,” said Langenberg. “In that time, Esg has become increasingly important for both us as a business, and the content industry at-large, and I look forward to working with Edouard to drive tangible, positive change in this space.
The company has confirmed to Variety that COO Peter Langenberg is departing, with his last day set to be March 31. Langenberg will remain with Banijay on a consultancy basis in the Esg space. Reasons for his departure were not disclosed.
“Banijay has been my home for eight years and it has been a total pleasure working with the hugely talented leaders and producers across the footprint globally. Together with Stéphane, Marco, and the broader executive team, I have watched the group grow exponentially and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of the business’ journey in becoming the largest European studio,” said Langenberg. “In that time, Esg has become increasingly important for both us as a business, and the content industry at-large, and I look forward to working with Edouard to drive tangible, positive change in this space.
- 3/28/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety Film + TV
Christian Wikander is out as global head of scripted at indie TV giant Banijay, a year after taking up the job, Banijay confirmed on Thursday.
A Banijay spokeswoman said Wikander will be leaving the group on Feb. 2, 2024 and that his role will now be reviewed. In the interim, Banijay’s global scripted team will temporarily report to chief business Officer Frédéric Balmary.
Wikander joined Banijay in 2022 after he was laid off from Warner Bros. Discovery’s HBO Max Nordic (now Max) when Warners shut down its original production operations in Scandinavia. Wikander had been commissioning editor and vp of original programming in the Nordic region for two years, delivering such series as the Swedish comedy Lust starring The Bridge actor Sofia Helin.
Banijay owns more than 60 scripted production companies around the world, including Sweden’s Yellow Bird, producers of Nordic noir drama Wallander, Norway’s Rubicon TV (Beforeigners) and British...
A Banijay spokeswoman said Wikander will be leaving the group on Feb. 2, 2024 and that his role will now be reviewed. In the interim, Banijay’s global scripted team will temporarily report to chief business Officer Frédéric Balmary.
Wikander joined Banijay in 2022 after he was laid off from Warner Bros. Discovery’s HBO Max Nordic (now Max) when Warners shut down its original production operations in Scandinavia. Wikander had been commissioning editor and vp of original programming in the Nordic region for two years, delivering such series as the Swedish comedy Lust starring The Bridge actor Sofia Helin.
Banijay owns more than 60 scripted production companies around the world, including Sweden’s Yellow Bird, producers of Nordic noir drama Wallander, Norway’s Rubicon TV (Beforeigners) and British...
- 1/18/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Christian Wikander, the well-respected Swedish executive who joined Banijay nine months ago as global head of scripted, will be stepping down from his role on Feb. 2. Speaking to Variety shortly after news broke of his upcoming exit, Wikander said he was “sad to be leaving” the company, but sees as as a “reflection of these times in the business.”
“We see these types of changes happening in the business, because we’ve gone from a very high position across many territories and we’re going through a time of correction that affects buyers and everyone involved,” Wikander told Variety.
The executive, who joined Banijay from HBO Max Nordic where he was commissioning editor and VP of original programming, said he doesn’t expect his role at Banijay to be replaced. Commenting on factors behind his exit, he said the business was tougher due to “changes in commissions and production volumes,...
“We see these types of changes happening in the business, because we’ve gone from a very high position across many territories and we’re going through a time of correction that affects buyers and everyone involved,” Wikander told Variety.
The executive, who joined Banijay from HBO Max Nordic where he was commissioning editor and VP of original programming, said he doesn’t expect his role at Banijay to be replaced. Commenting on factors behind his exit, he said the business was tougher due to “changes in commissions and production volumes,...
- 1/18/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Christian Wikander, Banijay’s Global Head of Scripted, is exiting after a year in post.
A Banijay spokeswoman confirmed the departure and said the role will now be reviewed. When Wikander leaves next month, the current team will report temporarily to Chief Business Officer Frédéric Balmary, who was promoted last year.
Wikander replaced Lars Blomgren – who departed to head up Media Res International – in December 2022. Banijay owns more than 60 scripted labels around the world and the role involves tying these labels together, overseeing the scripted slate globally and identifying third-party acquisitions.
Banijay drama labels include Sas: Rogue Heroes maker Kudos, Netflix’s Supersex producer Groenlandia and Wallander indie Yellow Bird. Most recently, it acquired Help producer The Forge in the UK, where it has been particularly aggressive in the M&a space.
The spokeswoman said Banijay had “experienced significant growth in scripted driven by M&a and continued streamer investment” during Wikander’s tenure.
A Banijay spokeswoman confirmed the departure and said the role will now be reviewed. When Wikander leaves next month, the current team will report temporarily to Chief Business Officer Frédéric Balmary, who was promoted last year.
Wikander replaced Lars Blomgren – who departed to head up Media Res International – in December 2022. Banijay owns more than 60 scripted labels around the world and the role involves tying these labels together, overseeing the scripted slate globally and identifying third-party acquisitions.
Banijay drama labels include Sas: Rogue Heroes maker Kudos, Netflix’s Supersex producer Groenlandia and Wallander indie Yellow Bird. Most recently, it acquired Help producer The Forge in the UK, where it has been particularly aggressive in the M&a space.
The spokeswoman said Banijay had “experienced significant growth in scripted driven by M&a and continued streamer investment” during Wikander’s tenure.
- 1/18/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Seven weeks after joining a company, most senior executives would be expected to have sat down with everyone they’ll be working with. Banijay — the TV behemoth behind shows such as Peaky Blinders, Survivor, Black Mirror, Sas Rogue Heroes, Marie Antoinette, Masterchef, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Big Brother and many, many more — isn’t your average company, as its new global head of scripted Christian Wikander has quickly discovered.
Thanks to an acquisitions drive that didn’t stop after its $2.2 billion purchase of Endemol Shine closed mid-2020 — Banijay now has a roster of more than 60 labels working in scripted on its books, and from all corners of the globe. Seven weeks into the job, it’s impressive that Wikander has even managed to have face-to-face time with more than half.
The Swede, who left his role as HBO Max Nordic’s commissioning editor and vice president of original programming...
Thanks to an acquisitions drive that didn’t stop after its $2.2 billion purchase of Endemol Shine closed mid-2020 — Banijay now has a roster of more than 60 labels working in scripted on its books, and from all corners of the globe. Seven weeks into the job, it’s impressive that Wikander has even managed to have face-to-face time with more than half.
The Swede, who left his role as HBO Max Nordic’s commissioning editor and vice president of original programming...
- 7/6/2023
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The inside story behind the ascent of Finland’s outgoing prime minister, Sanna Marin, is the subject of a new three-part docuseries from HBO Max.
The streamer has unveiled the Finnish original “First Five,” which is billed as an “intimate” portrait of Marin and her headline-grabbing female cabinet. The project comes just weeks after Marin and her centre-left Social Democratic Party was defeated by the conservative National Coalition Party.
Marin was sworn in as prime minister in December 2019. At just 34 years old, she was the country’s youngest Pm, and formed a cabinet with four other women — a number of whom were also under 35. Mere months later, the group was thrown into an unprecedented challenge when the Covid crisis hit Finland.
The series claims to offer a “close-up view into the lives of exceptional politicians in unprecedented times,” and introduces the women behind the public roles.
Consisting of three 35-minute-long episodes,...
The streamer has unveiled the Finnish original “First Five,” which is billed as an “intimate” portrait of Marin and her headline-grabbing female cabinet. The project comes just weeks after Marin and her centre-left Social Democratic Party was defeated by the conservative National Coalition Party.
Marin was sworn in as prime minister in December 2019. At just 34 years old, she was the country’s youngest Pm, and formed a cabinet with four other women — a number of whom were also under 35. Mere months later, the group was thrown into an unprecedented challenge when the Covid crisis hit Finland.
The series claims to offer a “close-up view into the lives of exceptional politicians in unprecedented times,” and introduces the women behind the public roles.
Consisting of three 35-minute-long episodes,...
- 4/20/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exec was previously chief of staff at global production and distribution group.
Global production and distribution group Banijay has appointed Frédéric Balmary to the newly devised role of chief business officer.
The move sees Balmary step from chief of staff to a more business-oriented strategic position.
Reporting directly to Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti, Balmary will continue to work with him and the group’s executive team to steer the business’ strategy, and to broaden innovation and growth opportunities. Balmary will remain a business development partner to the central scripted team, soon to be led by Christian Wikander.
Balmary started working...
Global production and distribution group Banijay has appointed Frédéric Balmary to the newly devised role of chief business officer.
The move sees Balmary step from chief of staff to a more business-oriented strategic position.
Reporting directly to Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti, Balmary will continue to work with him and the group’s executive team to steer the business’ strategy, and to broaden innovation and growth opportunities. Balmary will remain a business development partner to the central scripted team, soon to be led by Christian Wikander.
Balmary started working...
- 3/29/2023
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
The aim is to build international bridges for quality, internationally appealing content from Ukraine.
Global industry experts including Marc Lorber (ex-Lionsgate), Christian Wikander of Banijay, Emmanuelle Guilbart of About Premium Content, David Davoli of Anonymous Content, Carlo Dusi of Endor Productions and Criminal Minds writer Simon Mirren are joining the advisory board of the newly launched Ukrainian Content Club.
Kateryna Vyshnevska, co-founder and head of development at leading Ukrainian production company Film.UA, unveiled the initiative today (February 3) at Goteborg’s TV Drama Vision conference. The aim is to build international bridges for quality, internationally appealing content from Ukraine, while...
Global industry experts including Marc Lorber (ex-Lionsgate), Christian Wikander of Banijay, Emmanuelle Guilbart of About Premium Content, David Davoli of Anonymous Content, Carlo Dusi of Endor Productions and Criminal Minds writer Simon Mirren are joining the advisory board of the newly launched Ukrainian Content Club.
Kateryna Vyshnevska, co-founder and head of development at leading Ukrainian production company Film.UA, unveiled the initiative today (February 3) at Goteborg’s TV Drama Vision conference. The aim is to build international bridges for quality, internationally appealing content from Ukraine, while...
- 2/3/2023
- by Wendy Mitchell
- ScreenDaily
The antics at Essex College are just getting started.
Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble‘s comedy series The Sex Lives of College Girls has been renewed for a third season at HBO Max.
The final two episodes of Season 2 will hit HBO Max on Thursday. Since its premiere on November 21, the second season has been the top performing HBO Max original on the platform, according to the streamer.
Related Story ‘The Sex Lives Of College Girls’ Co-Creator Justin Noble On Season 2 And The Juxtapositions Of Campus Life Related Story Christian Wikander Joins 'Sas: Rogue Heroes' Maker Banijay As Global Head Of Scripted, Lars Blomgren Departs To Head Up Media Res International Related Story 'Station Eleven' Showrunner Patrick Somerville Promises To Play Apocalyptic Drama On A Loop In The Mojave Desert If It Disappears From HBO Max
Last week’s release day set a new record for the series...
Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble‘s comedy series The Sex Lives of College Girls has been renewed for a third season at HBO Max.
The final two episodes of Season 2 will hit HBO Max on Thursday. Since its premiere on November 21, the second season has been the top performing HBO Max original on the platform, according to the streamer.
Related Story ‘The Sex Lives Of College Girls’ Co-Creator Justin Noble On Season 2 And The Juxtapositions Of Campus Life Related Story Christian Wikander Joins 'Sas: Rogue Heroes' Maker Banijay As Global Head Of Scripted, Lars Blomgren Departs To Head Up Media Res International Related Story 'Station Eleven' Showrunner Patrick Somerville Promises To Play Apocalyptic Drama On A Loop In The Mojave Desert If It Disappears From HBO Max
Last week’s release day set a new record for the series...
- 12/14/2022
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
TV giant Banijay has hired a new global head of scripted, naming Christian Wikander to the role in which he will oversee a network of more than 50 labels in 19 territories.
Wikander joins from HBO Max Nordic, where he has served as commissioning editor and vice president of original programming since 2020, and will take up the role in May.
The appointment comes after Banijay’s current head of scripted Lars Blomgren — a veteran exec who across a lengthy career has overseen shows, including The Fall, Lillyhammer, Black Mirror, Peaky Blinders, Dark and The Bridge — was tapped by The Morning Show and Pachinko production company Media Res to head up its newly-formed global TV division.
“Our goal in launching this new division is to collaborate with international creators, filmmakers and producers on innovative, daring and arresting series for global audiences,” said Media Res founder and CEO Michael Ellenberg.
TV giant Banijay has hired a new global head of scripted, naming Christian Wikander to the role in which he will oversee a network of more than 50 labels in 19 territories.
Wikander joins from HBO Max Nordic, where he has served as commissioning editor and vice president of original programming since 2020, and will take up the role in May.
The appointment comes after Banijay’s current head of scripted Lars Blomgren — a veteran exec who across a lengthy career has overseen shows, including The Fall, Lillyhammer, Black Mirror, Peaky Blinders, Dark and The Bridge — was tapped by The Morning Show and Pachinko production company Media Res to head up its newly-formed global TV division.
“Our goal in launching this new division is to collaborate with international creators, filmmakers and producers on innovative, daring and arresting series for global audiences,” said Media Res founder and CEO Michael Ellenberg.
- 12/14/2022
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Replaces Lars Blomgren who is leaving to join Media Res.
Production giant Banijay has confirmed the appointment of Christian Wikander as its new global head of scripted.
Wikander joins from HBO Max Nordic where he was commissioning editor and VP of original programming from 2020 until this summer. He left his role after HBO Max halted the development of originals in key parts of Europe amid cost cutting by parent Warner Bros. Discovery. Wikander will join Banijay on 1 May 2023.
Wikander replaces Lars Blomgren, who is returning to his roots as a producer following his recent executive producer role on Scenes From A Marriage.
Production giant Banijay has confirmed the appointment of Christian Wikander as its new global head of scripted.
Wikander joins from HBO Max Nordic where he was commissioning editor and VP of original programming from 2020 until this summer. He left his role after HBO Max halted the development of originals in key parts of Europe amid cost cutting by parent Warner Bros. Discovery. Wikander will join Banijay on 1 May 2023.
Wikander replaces Lars Blomgren, who is returning to his roots as a producer following his recent executive producer role on Scenes From A Marriage.
- 12/14/2022
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
Banijay has poached HBO Max Nordic executive Christian Wikander to be its new global head of scripted.
Joining the group on May 1, Wikander will be in charge of spearheading strategic IP creation, driving collaboration across the business’ portfolio of over 50 drama labels, exploiting format potential, and identifying lucrative third-party acquisition opportunities. He will report to Marco Bassetti, Banijay CEO.
Wikander was previously commissioning editor and VP of original programming at HBO Max Nordic (Warner Bros. Discovery) since 2020. He was responsible for developing original scripted series across the entity’s Nordic footprint, partnering with creators, producers, and key talent, both locally and internationally.
Prior to this, Wikander was managing director for London-based Twelve Town, having joined in 2016 as head of drama for Europe. While at Twelve Town, Wikander led the company’s overarching business and IP strategy, and content pipeline, notably Viaplay’s “Conspiracy of Silence.“
“I feel a great sense...
Joining the group on May 1, Wikander will be in charge of spearheading strategic IP creation, driving collaboration across the business’ portfolio of over 50 drama labels, exploiting format potential, and identifying lucrative third-party acquisition opportunities. He will report to Marco Bassetti, Banijay CEO.
Wikander was previously commissioning editor and VP of original programming at HBO Max Nordic (Warner Bros. Discovery) since 2020. He was responsible for developing original scripted series across the entity’s Nordic footprint, partnering with creators, producers, and key talent, both locally and internationally.
Prior to this, Wikander was managing director for London-based Twelve Town, having joined in 2016 as head of drama for Europe. While at Twelve Town, Wikander led the company’s overarching business and IP strategy, and content pipeline, notably Viaplay’s “Conspiracy of Silence.“
“I feel a great sense...
- 12/14/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Christian Wikander, the scripted specialist who left HBO Max as part of cuts to the streamer in Europe this summer, has a new role.
He’s been named Global Head of Scripted at Banijay and will take up the post on May 1 2023, and Lars Blomgren is leaving at the same time to head up Media Res’ newly-opened international TV arm.
Wikander has been tasked with overseeing Banijay’s scripted slate globally, driving collaboration between the super-indie’s 50+ drama labels and identifying third-party acquisitions.
He was HBO Max Nordic’s Commissioning Editor and VP, Original Programming between 2020 and 2022, when his roles was made redundant, as Deadline revealed.
Other execs who left in the restructure included HBO Max Emea VP Original Programming and Production Cee Johnathan Young and Head of Unscripted Original Production Annelies Sitvast. In total 29 staff left the business.
At Warner Bros Discovery’s streaming service, he was responsible for...
He’s been named Global Head of Scripted at Banijay and will take up the post on May 1 2023, and Lars Blomgren is leaving at the same time to head up Media Res’ newly-opened international TV arm.
Wikander has been tasked with overseeing Banijay’s scripted slate globally, driving collaboration between the super-indie’s 50+ drama labels and identifying third-party acquisitions.
He was HBO Max Nordic’s Commissioning Editor and VP, Original Programming between 2020 and 2022, when his roles was made redundant, as Deadline revealed.
Other execs who left in the restructure included HBO Max Emea VP Original Programming and Production Cee Johnathan Young and Head of Unscripted Original Production Annelies Sitvast. In total 29 staff left the business.
At Warner Bros Discovery’s streaming service, he was responsible for...
- 12/14/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Discovery has set another of its European management teams, as Nordic chief Christina Sulebakk lays out the structure of her unit.
The likes of Pil Gundelach Brandstrup, Magnus Vatn, Axel Eriksson and Katja Santala have landed key country-based content roles in the shake-up, while Rebecca Rørmark, Sanny Ekstrand and Johan Mannerhill are the highest profile exits. Last month, Deadline revealed Nordics originals chief Christian Wikander was among the 29 departing Wbd’s European production team as part of a switch to a territory-first model.
Wbd’s Nordics operation spans several Discovery-branded linear channels and HBO Max, which launched last year but will be replaced with a service that also incorporates Discovery+ in coming months. It also has extensive local production operations.
Of those departing, Wbd said Rørmark had “decided to explore new opportunities” but will head up marketing of the Discovery channel portfolio, trade marketing for HBO Max and...
The likes of Pil Gundelach Brandstrup, Magnus Vatn, Axel Eriksson and Katja Santala have landed key country-based content roles in the shake-up, while Rebecca Rørmark, Sanny Ekstrand and Johan Mannerhill are the highest profile exits. Last month, Deadline revealed Nordics originals chief Christian Wikander was among the 29 departing Wbd’s European production team as part of a switch to a territory-first model.
Wbd’s Nordics operation spans several Discovery-branded linear channels and HBO Max, which launched last year but will be replaced with a service that also incorporates Discovery+ in coming months. It also has extensive local production operations.
Of those departing, Wbd said Rørmark had “decided to explore new opportunities” but will head up marketing of the Discovery channel portfolio, trade marketing for HBO Max and...
- 9/5/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
The streamer is laying off nearly 30 members of European original programming teams.
Warner Bros Discovery is laying off 29 people in Europe over the next 15 months as part of its move to phase out HBO Max original programming for the region.
Top executives affected, the company confirmed, include Johnathan Young, HBO Max Emea’s vice president of original programming and production for Central and Eastern Europe; Christian Wikander, vice president and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
The remaining layoffs are expected to come from those executives’ teams.
Antony Root, HBO...
Warner Bros Discovery is laying off 29 people in Europe over the next 15 months as part of its move to phase out HBO Max original programming for the region.
Top executives affected, the company confirmed, include Johnathan Young, HBO Max Emea’s vice president of original programming and production for Central and Eastern Europe; Christian Wikander, vice president and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
The remaining layoffs are expected to come from those executives’ teams.
Antony Root, HBO...
- 8/25/2022
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
The streamer is laying off nearly 30 members of European original programming teams.
Warner Bros Discovery is laying off 29 people in Europe over the next 15 months as part of its move to phase out HBO Max original programming for the region.
Top executives affected, the company confirmed, include Johnathan Young, HBO Max Emea’s vice president of original programming and production for Central and Eastern Europe; Christian Wikander, vice president and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
The remaining layoffs are expected to come from those executives’ teams.
Antony Root, HBO...
Warner Bros Discovery is laying off 29 people in Europe over the next 15 months as part of its move to phase out HBO Max original programming for the region.
Top executives affected, the company confirmed, include Johnathan Young, HBO Max Emea’s vice president of original programming and production for Central and Eastern Europe; Christian Wikander, vice president and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
The remaining layoffs are expected to come from those executives’ teams.
Antony Root, HBO...
- 8/25/2022
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
The streamer is laying off nearly 30 members of European original programming teams.
Warner Bros Discovery is laying off 29 people in Europe over the next 15 months as part of its move to phase out HBO Max original programming for the region, according to reports.
Top executives affected are thought to include Johnathan Young, HBO Max Emea’s vice president of original programming and production for Central and Eastern Europe; Christian Wikander, vice president and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
The remaining layoffs are expected to come from those executives’ teams.
Warner Bros Discovery is laying off 29 people in Europe over the next 15 months as part of its move to phase out HBO Max original programming for the region, according to reports.
Top executives affected are thought to include Johnathan Young, HBO Max Emea’s vice president of original programming and production for Central and Eastern Europe; Christian Wikander, vice president and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
The remaining layoffs are expected to come from those executives’ teams.
- 8/25/2022
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Warner Bros. Discovery on Thursday eliminated 29 positions in Europe, including top executives responsible for original programming, according to media reports.
Jonathan Young, VP of original programming and production at HBO Max for Europe, Middle East and Africa; Christian Wikander, VP of original programming for the Nordic region; and Annelies Sitvast, who oversees unscripted original programming were all let go as part of the conglomerate’s latest consolidation move.
A rep for Warner Bros. Discovery did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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The layoffs are the latest in Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav’s dual moves to reduce costs by up to 3 billion as well as to shift the strategy for the company’s streaming services, HBO Max and Discovery+. The company plans to merge the two platforms, with plans to introduced the...
Jonathan Young, VP of original programming and production at HBO Max for Europe, Middle East and Africa; Christian Wikander, VP of original programming for the Nordic region; and Annelies Sitvast, who oversees unscripted original programming were all let go as part of the conglomerate’s latest consolidation move.
A rep for Warner Bros. Discovery did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Also Read:
HBO Max Cancels More Animation, Including ‘Batman: The Caped Crusader’ and 2 ‘Looney Tunes’ Projects
The layoffs are the latest in Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav’s dual moves to reduce costs by up to 3 billion as well as to shift the strategy for the company’s streaming services, HBO Max and Discovery+. The company plans to merge the two platforms, with plans to introduced the...
- 8/25/2022
- by Thom Geier
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Warner Bros. Discovery has taken the axe to its European staff, chopping 29 jobs in Europe, among them top programming positions, Warner Bros. Discovery confirmed Thursday.
Among the executives on the way out are Johnathan Young, vp, original programming and production at HBO Max Emea (Europe, Middle East and Africa); Christian Wikander, vp and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordic region; and Annelies Sitvast, who heads up the studios’ unscripted original programming slate. Mia Edde, who joined Wbd last year to run content acquisitions for Turkey, has already left.
The rest of the 29 employees, all of whom will be leaving Wbd over the next 15 months, come from these executives’ teams.
The cuts were expected following the merger of Discovery and Warner Bros. and the announcement by studio boss David Zaslav that the company was looking to find 3 billion in savings across its global business.
Warner Bros. Discovery has taken the axe to its European staff, chopping 29 jobs in Europe, among them top programming positions, Warner Bros. Discovery confirmed Thursday.
Among the executives on the way out are Johnathan Young, vp, original programming and production at HBO Max Emea (Europe, Middle East and Africa); Christian Wikander, vp and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordic region; and Annelies Sitvast, who heads up the studios’ unscripted original programming slate. Mia Edde, who joined Wbd last year to run content acquisitions for Turkey, has already left.
The rest of the 29 employees, all of whom will be leaving Wbd over the next 15 months, come from these executives’ teams.
The cuts were expected following the merger of Discovery and Warner Bros. and the announcement by studio boss David Zaslav that the company was looking to find 3 billion in savings across its global business.
- 8/25/2022
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Warner Bros. Discovery is laying off 29 people in Europe over the next 15 months as it shifts its originals model for HBO Max, Variety has confirmed.
Variety was first to report in July of HBO Max’s decision to retreat from original programming in a number of European markets, and warn of layoffs within the programming team.
Under the new model, Warner Bros. Discovery will continue to invest in local European commissions and acquisitions but original programming will be handled by the local linear and streaming teams. No shows will be commissioned solely for streaming.
The executives departing the company include Jonathan Young, VP original programming and production for Emea; Christian Wikander, VP and commissioning editor of original programming, Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
Mia Edde, executive director of content acquisitions in Turkey, has already left.
Those who are set to remain at the company are Antony Root,...
Variety was first to report in July of HBO Max’s decision to retreat from original programming in a number of European markets, and warn of layoffs within the programming team.
Under the new model, Warner Bros. Discovery will continue to invest in local European commissions and acquisitions but original programming will be handled by the local linear and streaming teams. No shows will be commissioned solely for streaming.
The executives departing the company include Jonathan Young, VP original programming and production for Emea; Christian Wikander, VP and commissioning editor of original programming, Nordics; and Annelies Sitvast, head of unscripted original production.
Mia Edde, executive director of content acquisitions in Turkey, has already left.
Those who are set to remain at the company are Antony Root,...
- 8/25/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Warner Bros. Discovery is letting go of 29 staff in Europe, including key programming execs, as it moves to phase out HBO Max European originals and shift towards a new local commissioning model, Deadline can reveal.
Among the top level execs leaving the business are HBO Max Emea VP Original Programming and Production Cee Johnathan Young; VP and Commissioning Editor of Original Programming, Nordics Christian Wikander; and Head of Unscripted Original Production Annelies Sitvast. Mia Edde, who joined last year as Executive Director, Content Acquisitions in Turkey has already left.
In total, 29 will depart over the next 15 months, with the other departures coming from the teams of the exiting executives.
Deadline understands Wbd will continue to invest in local commissions and acquisitions in Europe, but that original programming responsibilities will now be handled by the company’s local linear and streaming teams, and no commissions will be made purely for streaming.
Among the top level execs leaving the business are HBO Max Emea VP Original Programming and Production Cee Johnathan Young; VP and Commissioning Editor of Original Programming, Nordics Christian Wikander; and Head of Unscripted Original Production Annelies Sitvast. Mia Edde, who joined last year as Executive Director, Content Acquisitions in Turkey has already left.
In total, 29 will depart over the next 15 months, with the other departures coming from the teams of the exiting executives.
Deadline understands Wbd will continue to invest in local commissions and acquisitions in Europe, but that original programming responsibilities will now be handled by the company’s local linear and streaming teams, and no commissions will be made purely for streaming.
- 8/25/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Job cuts are expected at HBO Max Europe following a major strategic review that will see development of local originals halted in the Nordics and Central Europe.
The move comes as the Warner Bros. Discovery merger gathers pace and the outfit seeks £3B worth of savings within two years, with HBO Max set to be combined with Discovery+.
Deadline understands jobs at HBO Max Europe are at risk following the review, which will also see nascent development activities in the Netherlands and Turkey halted after less than a year. The details regarding potential redundancies are still being ironed out.
Shows in production or post-production in the Nordics, Central Europe and the Netherlands are being reviewed. Hits to have already emerged from the region include the likes of Denmark’s Kamikaze (pictured) and Sweden’s Lust.
Of the territories in which HBO Max has a footprint, only Spain and France are not impacted by the review.
The move comes as the Warner Bros. Discovery merger gathers pace and the outfit seeks £3B worth of savings within two years, with HBO Max set to be combined with Discovery+.
Deadline understands jobs at HBO Max Europe are at risk following the review, which will also see nascent development activities in the Netherlands and Turkey halted after less than a year. The details regarding potential redundancies are still being ironed out.
Shows in production or post-production in the Nordics, Central Europe and the Netherlands are being reviewed. Hits to have already emerged from the region include the likes of Denmark’s Kamikaze (pictured) and Sweden’s Lust.
Of the territories in which HBO Max has a footprint, only Spain and France are not impacted by the review.
- 7/4/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Discovery’s post-merger growing pains and an eye-watering 3 billion cost-savings target are hitting its programming strategy in Europe, Variety can reveal.
As the media conglomerate looks to recalibrate its streaming priorities, it will no longer produce originals for HBO Max in the Nordics, Central Europe, the Netherlands and Turkey, and will also remove some content from its platform in order to free up licensing deals elsewhere.
In a statement shared with Variety, a spokesperson for Warner Bros. Discovery said:
“As we continue to work on combining HBO Max and discovery+ into one global streaming service showcasing the breadth of content across Warner Bros. Discovery, we are reviewing our current content proposition on the existing services. As part of this process, we have decided to remove a limited amount of original programming from HBO Max, as well as ceasing our original programming efforts for HBO Max in the Nordics and Central Europe.
As the media conglomerate looks to recalibrate its streaming priorities, it will no longer produce originals for HBO Max in the Nordics, Central Europe, the Netherlands and Turkey, and will also remove some content from its platform in order to free up licensing deals elsewhere.
In a statement shared with Variety, a spokesperson for Warner Bros. Discovery said:
“As we continue to work on combining HBO Max and discovery+ into one global streaming service showcasing the breadth of content across Warner Bros. Discovery, we are reviewing our current content proposition on the existing services. As part of this process, we have decided to remove a limited amount of original programming from HBO Max, as well as ceasing our original programming efforts for HBO Max in the Nordics and Central Europe.
- 7/4/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max has announced that local versions of its original reality dating competition show “FBoy Island” have been greenlit for production in Denmark, Spain, Sweden and The Netherlands.
The hit series will be produced by Warner Bros. International Television Production in each of these territories
The “FBoy Island” series concept was created by Elan Gale (“The Bachelor” franchise) and follows three women who move to a tropical island where they’re joined by 24 men. Of these, 12 are self-proclaimed ‘Nice Guys’ looking for love, and the other 12 are instead ‘FBoys’ who are there to compete for cash.
As Variety TV critic Caroline Framke put it in her review “‘FBoy Island’” “tries to flip the ‘Bachelorette’ conceit on its head with a self-consciously cheeky twist.”
The women navigate the dating pool together with the hope of finding a lasting love connection. As the series progresses, all is revealed: who is a ‘Nice...
The hit series will be produced by Warner Bros. International Television Production in each of these territories
The “FBoy Island” series concept was created by Elan Gale (“The Bachelor” franchise) and follows three women who move to a tropical island where they’re joined by 24 men. Of these, 12 are self-proclaimed ‘Nice Guys’ looking for love, and the other 12 are instead ‘FBoys’ who are there to compete for cash.
As Variety TV critic Caroline Framke put it in her review “‘FBoy Island’” “tries to flip the ‘Bachelorette’ conceit on its head with a self-consciously cheeky twist.”
The women navigate the dating pool together with the hope of finding a lasting love connection. As the series progresses, all is revealed: who is a ‘Nice...
- 4/28/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Fboy Island, the hit U.S. dating series, is to be made into local versions by HBO Max in Denmark, Spain, Sweden and the Netherlands.
Warner Bros. International Television Production (Wbitvp) will produce in each territory for the show that HBO said was the biggest launch for a Max Original reality series since it started. Viewership is growing week on week, according to HBO.
Created by The Bachelor’s Elan Gale, the series sees three women move to a tropical island where they’re joined by 24 men – 12 self-proclaimed “Nice Guys” looking for love, and 12 self-proclaimed “FBoys,” there to compete for cash.
The women navigate the dating pool together with the hope of finding a lasting love connection. As the series progresses, all is revealed – who is a “Nice Guy,” who is an “FBoy,” and who the women ultimately choose.
The quartet of local versions is HBO Max’s biggest non-scripted...
Warner Bros. International Television Production (Wbitvp) will produce in each territory for the show that HBO said was the biggest launch for a Max Original reality series since it started. Viewership is growing week on week, according to HBO.
Created by The Bachelor’s Elan Gale, the series sees three women move to a tropical island where they’re joined by 24 men – 12 self-proclaimed “Nice Guys” looking for love, and 12 self-proclaimed “FBoys,” there to compete for cash.
The women navigate the dating pool together with the hope of finding a lasting love connection. As the series progresses, all is revealed – who is a “Nice Guy,” who is an “FBoy,” and who the women ultimately choose.
The quartet of local versions is HBO Max’s biggest non-scripted...
- 4/28/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
In one of its first major overtures to the European drama community since expanding across the continent, HBO Max commissioners used a rare Series Mania presentation to lay out their strategies and wish lists for the platform.
The team was speaking as part of a panel on Wednesday that drew a queue of at least 500 people who were snaked around the Lille Grand Palais in hopes of getting in. HBO Max is, for many a drama producer in town, the ideal partner in Europe given its existing track record as HBO Europe.
Antony Root, executive VP and head of original production for WarnerMedia Emea, presented the streamer’s four pillars for local originals: Local first; broad appeal; distinctive storytelling; and a diverse slate.
The task at hand, he said, is to drive subscriber acquisitions and “get people in who might not otherwise subscribe to the HBO channel, by having a broader slate.
The team was speaking as part of a panel on Wednesday that drew a queue of at least 500 people who were snaked around the Lille Grand Palais in hopes of getting in. HBO Max is, for many a drama producer in town, the ideal partner in Europe given its existing track record as HBO Europe.
Antony Root, executive VP and head of original production for WarnerMedia Emea, presented the streamer’s four pillars for local originals: Local first; broad appeal; distinctive storytelling; and a diverse slate.
The task at hand, he said, is to drive subscriber acquisitions and “get people in who might not otherwise subscribe to the HBO channel, by having a broader slate.
- 3/23/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Versatile Finnish helmer A.J. Annila is on board to direct the thriller series with a working title of “ID” which marks HBO Max’s first commission of a Finnish premium TV show.
Set in the art fraud world, the six-part series is co-created by seasoned writer Aleksi Bardy and Mia Ylönen for Finnish production powerhouse Helsinki-Filmi, a subsidiary of Finland’s Aurora Studios.
“ID” revolves around art fraud investigator Emma who goes undercover to infiltrate an auction house in Stockholm in order to investigate the firm’s connection to a notorious money launderer known as Blanko. Under her new identity, the quiet Emma morphs into a different person, the party animal and hot-headed socialite Annika. Her change of persona triggers long-hidden memories to resurface, forcing Emma to confront her past.
Annila, who contributed earlier to HBO Nordic’s anthology series of short films “At Home” (Eristyksissä), said he is thrilled...
Set in the art fraud world, the six-part series is co-created by seasoned writer Aleksi Bardy and Mia Ylönen for Finnish production powerhouse Helsinki-Filmi, a subsidiary of Finland’s Aurora Studios.
“ID” revolves around art fraud investigator Emma who goes undercover to infiltrate an auction house in Stockholm in order to investigate the firm’s connection to a notorious money launderer known as Blanko. Under her new identity, the quiet Emma morphs into a different person, the party animal and hot-headed socialite Annika. Her change of persona triggers long-hidden memories to resurface, forcing Emma to confront her past.
Annila, who contributed earlier to HBO Nordic’s anthology series of short films “At Home” (Eristyksissä), said he is thrilled...
- 2/6/2022
- by Annika Pham
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Here’s a trailer for the second season of Beforeigners, HBO Max’s debut original from Norway.
The sci-fi drama from Lilyhammer’s Eilif Skodvin and Anne Bjørnstad is introducing a wealth of new international cast members for the second season, including Paul Kaye (Game of Thrones) Ann Akin (I May Destroy You), Jade Anouka (His Dark Materials), Billy Postlethwaite (Chernobyl), Hedda Stiernstedt (The Restaurant) and Philip Rosch (The Alienist). Krista Kosonen and Nicolai Cleve Broch will reprise their roles as main characters Alfhildr and Lars and Tobias Santelmann (The Last Kingdom) will return as Olav the Holy.
The series starts with Oslo shaken by a brutal murder. Lars and Alfhildr are brought back together in an investigation with ties to several countries and centuries which raises the question: could Jack the Ripper have ‘timeigrated’ to the present? Police detectives, Lars and Alfhildr soon realize that if they are to capture the killer,...
The sci-fi drama from Lilyhammer’s Eilif Skodvin and Anne Bjørnstad is introducing a wealth of new international cast members for the second season, including Paul Kaye (Game of Thrones) Ann Akin (I May Destroy You), Jade Anouka (His Dark Materials), Billy Postlethwaite (Chernobyl), Hedda Stiernstedt (The Restaurant) and Philip Rosch (The Alienist). Krista Kosonen and Nicolai Cleve Broch will reprise their roles as main characters Alfhildr and Lars and Tobias Santelmann (The Last Kingdom) will return as Olav the Holy.
The series starts with Oslo shaken by a brutal murder. Lars and Alfhildr are brought back together in an investigation with ties to several countries and centuries which raises the question: could Jack the Ripper have ‘timeigrated’ to the present? Police detectives, Lars and Alfhildr soon realize that if they are to capture the killer,...
- 11/16/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Investment
Media group Vivendi has acquired a stake in France and U.K. headquartered Pernel Media, the independent production company behind “Legends of the Pharaohs,” “The Real War of Thrones,” “Wheeler Dealers France,” “Attila’s Forbidden Tomb” and “Ancient Superstructures.
Pernel will remain an autonomous entity led by Samuel Kissous and will keep expanding the range of broadcast partners and platforms it is working with in France and internationally. The company goal aims to accelerate its international business, consolidate factual output with premium global series, and firm up its scripted projects.
As part of the financing restructure, previous shareholders Alliance Entreprendre and Odyssee Venture are exiting the company.
In July, Pernel hired former head of Arte Distribution Celine Payot Lehmann as international executive producer.
Streaming
HBO Max will stream original drama series “Kamikaze” on Nov. 14 in 46 countries and territories where the streamer is available across Europe, the U.S. and Latin America.
Media group Vivendi has acquired a stake in France and U.K. headquartered Pernel Media, the independent production company behind “Legends of the Pharaohs,” “The Real War of Thrones,” “Wheeler Dealers France,” “Attila’s Forbidden Tomb” and “Ancient Superstructures.
Pernel will remain an autonomous entity led by Samuel Kissous and will keep expanding the range of broadcast partners and platforms it is working with in France and internationally. The company goal aims to accelerate its international business, consolidate factual output with premium global series, and firm up its scripted projects.
As part of the financing restructure, previous shareholders Alliance Entreprendre and Odyssee Venture are exiting the company.
In July, Pernel hired former head of Arte Distribution Celine Payot Lehmann as international executive producer.
Streaming
HBO Max will stream original drama series “Kamikaze” on Nov. 14 in 46 countries and territories where the streamer is available across Europe, the U.S. and Latin America.
- 10/15/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Off the back of yesterday’s HBO Max European launch event, which featured previews of a host of new content coming to the platform, today we can reveal a first look at one of the streamer’s upcoming local originals, Lust.
The Swedish show, which has just entered production, stars Sofia Helin (The Bridge) alongside Anja Lundqvist, Julia Dufvenius and Elin Klinga. It is billed as an outrageous and painfully honest comedy about four middle(ish) aged women in Stockholm struggling to keep their libidos alive in a sexually frustrating world.
The trio have all been friends since school. When they find out that one of them is conducting a government survey dubiously dubbed ‘Make Sweden Sexy Again’, they are intrigued. Is good sex – or the lack thereof – impacting the health of Swedish women over 40?
The project comes from Scandi major Miso Film Sweden, which is owned by Fremantle.
The Swedish show, which has just entered production, stars Sofia Helin (The Bridge) alongside Anja Lundqvist, Julia Dufvenius and Elin Klinga. It is billed as an outrageous and painfully honest comedy about four middle(ish) aged women in Stockholm struggling to keep their libidos alive in a sexually frustrating world.
The trio have all been friends since school. When they find out that one of them is conducting a government survey dubiously dubbed ‘Make Sweden Sexy Again’, they are intrigued. Is good sex – or the lack thereof – impacting the health of Swedish women over 40?
The project comes from Scandi major Miso Film Sweden, which is owned by Fremantle.
- 10/6/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
One moment, Julie, just 18, a fashion influencer, 159,258 followers, is swanning down a street in Copenhagen, with her BFFs Constanze, Micke and Sofia. The next, her parents and big brother are dead, killed in a plane crash in Africa.
Julie gets the family mansion, but can’t think of any good reasons for living.
There’s a before and after, Julie says in “Kamikaze,” HBO Max’s first Danish original. “Before when I thought of time, that would bring me closer to whatever I was looking forward to. And now I only think of time as something between myself and all the things I will never get back,” she reasons.
Over the course of eight energetic half-hour episodes, Julie seeks a reason to live, while attempting comic and dramatic life-exits in a journey which takes her to Seoul, London, Mexico and finally, in an narrative stretch which punctuates the whole series,...
Julie gets the family mansion, but can’t think of any good reasons for living.
There’s a before and after, Julie says in “Kamikaze,” HBO Max’s first Danish original. “Before when I thought of time, that would bring me closer to whatever I was looking forward to. And now I only think of time as something between myself and all the things I will never get back,” she reasons.
Over the course of eight energetic half-hour episodes, Julie seeks a reason to live, while attempting comic and dramatic life-exits in a journey which takes her to Seoul, London, Mexico and finally, in an narrative stretch which punctuates the whole series,...
- 9/1/2021
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max has greenlighted the Swedish original comedy Lust, starring The Bridge actress Sofia Helin and produced by Fremantle-backed Miso Film. It comes ahead of HBO Max’s launch in the Scandinavian country later this year.
Co-starring Anja Lundqvist, Julia Dufvenius and Elin Klinga, the eight-part series is billed as an outrageous and painfully honest comedy about four middle-aged women in Stockholm struggling to keep their libidos alive in a sexually frustrating world.
Anette (Helin), Nadia (Lundqvist), Ellen (Dufvenius) and Martina (Klinga) have all been friends since school. When they find out that Anette is conducting a government survey dubiously dubbed “Make Sweden Sexy Again,” they are intrigued. Is good sex — or the lack thereof — impacting the health of Swedish women over 40?
Lust is written by Frans Milisic Wiklund, based on an idea and in close collaboration with Åsa Kalmér, Dufvenius, Helin and Lundqvist. Ella Lemhagen directs, while the...
Co-starring Anja Lundqvist, Julia Dufvenius and Elin Klinga, the eight-part series is billed as an outrageous and painfully honest comedy about four middle-aged women in Stockholm struggling to keep their libidos alive in a sexually frustrating world.
Anette (Helin), Nadia (Lundqvist), Ellen (Dufvenius) and Martina (Klinga) have all been friends since school. When they find out that Anette is conducting a government survey dubiously dubbed “Make Sweden Sexy Again,” they are intrigued. Is good sex — or the lack thereof — impacting the health of Swedish women over 40?
Lust is written by Frans Milisic Wiklund, based on an idea and in close collaboration with Åsa Kalmér, Dufvenius, Helin and Lundqvist. Ella Lemhagen directs, while the...
- 6/28/2021
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO Max has ordered a daring Swedish comedy series entitled “Lust” from Fremantle-owned banner Miso Film, ahead of its launch in Sweden.
The new Max Original half-hour series will be headlined by Sofia Helin (“The Bridge”), Anja Lundqvist, Julia Dufvenius and Elin Klinga as four middle-aged women in Stockholm who have been friends since school and are struggling to keep their libidos alive.
The series starts with one of them, Anette, getting commissioned to conduct a government survey dubiously dubbed ‘Make Sweden Sexy Again.’ She starts looking into the sex lives of Swedish women over 40 who have to juggle their careers, kids, marriages, divorces and physical shape.
Directed by Ella Lemhagen (“The Crown Jewels”), the series is written by Frans Milisic Wiklund, in close collaboration with Åsa Kalmér, Dufvenius, Helin and Lundqvist.
The show is produced by Sandra Harms and Karl Fredrik Ulfung at Miso Film, and executive produced by...
The new Max Original half-hour series will be headlined by Sofia Helin (“The Bridge”), Anja Lundqvist, Julia Dufvenius and Elin Klinga as four middle-aged women in Stockholm who have been friends since school and are struggling to keep their libidos alive.
The series starts with one of them, Anette, getting commissioned to conduct a government survey dubiously dubbed ‘Make Sweden Sexy Again.’ She starts looking into the sex lives of Swedish women over 40 who have to juggle their careers, kids, marriages, divorces and physical shape.
Directed by Ella Lemhagen (“The Crown Jewels”), the series is written by Frans Milisic Wiklund, in close collaboration with Åsa Kalmér, Dufvenius, Helin and Lundqvist.
The show is produced by Sandra Harms and Karl Fredrik Ulfung at Miso Film, and executive produced by...
- 6/28/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Record numbers of industry attendees from 46 countries virtually attended Nordic Film Market at TV Drama Vision.
Goteborg’s industry activities attracted a record 734 delegates for the Nordic Film Market and 566 for TV Drama Vision, from across 46 countries. Like the festival, the industry programme was held online for the first time this year due to the pandemic.
One hot film project being pitched at script stage was Stranger, which unites Danish production company Motor with Poland’s Opus Film (Ida). Mads Hedegaard will make his fictional feature directorial debut with the film, which he co-writes with Jesper Fink (Margrete-Queen Of The...
Goteborg’s industry activities attracted a record 734 delegates for the Nordic Film Market and 566 for TV Drama Vision, from across 46 countries. Like the festival, the industry programme was held online for the first time this year due to the pandemic.
One hot film project being pitched at script stage was Stranger, which unites Danish production company Motor with Poland’s Opus Film (Ida). Mads Hedegaard will make his fictional feature directorial debut with the film, which he co-writes with Jesper Fink (Margrete-Queen Of The...
- 2/11/2021
- by Wendy Mitchell
- ScreenDaily
An in-depth discussion at Göteborg’s TV Drama Vision gave a broader understanding of the changes that the launch of HBO Max in Europe will bring this summer. In light of the fact that HBO is launching HBO Max, the new platform set to rebrand all of the local HBO Europe outposts, in Europe this summer, a panel was organised during the Göteborg Film Festival’s TV Drama Vision. Antony Root, head of Original Production at WarnerMedia Emea, and Christian Wikander, commissioning editor and VP Original Programming at HBO Nordic, offered their insights during a conversation with Marike Muselaers. Root started off by clarifying that all of the different local HBO Europe entities – Nordic, Adria, Spain, Poland, Romania and so on – are, in fact, one service that offers uniform content consisting of the US programming, including HBO Original series, with some regional variations. He also explained that these local versions.
A record 500 delegates have signed up for Scandinavia’s leading TV drama confab, TV Drama Vision, which is set to unspool online over Feb. 3-4, parallel to Sweden’s Göteborg Film Festival.
Next to honorary guest – Danish writer-helmer Susanne Bier, 30 keynote speakers will share their insights, business and creative tips on how to boost global industry resilience at a time of unprecedented challenges under Covid-19. Walter Iuzzolino, creator of the international curated streaming service Walter Presents – jointly owned by the U.K.’s Channel Four – will open discussions, in conversation with media analyst Johanna Koljonen, author of Göteborg’s annual Nostradamus Report.
Ampere Analysis exec director Guy Bisson returns to Goteborg for a second year running will analyze a series of TV trends to watch out for in 2021 – which he describes as turning on “compounding.” Festival and market executives Frédéric Pittoors d’Haveskercke (Series Mania), Dennis Ruh (European Film Market...
Next to honorary guest – Danish writer-helmer Susanne Bier, 30 keynote speakers will share their insights, business and creative tips on how to boost global industry resilience at a time of unprecedented challenges under Covid-19. Walter Iuzzolino, creator of the international curated streaming service Walter Presents – jointly owned by the U.K.’s Channel Four – will open discussions, in conversation with media analyst Johanna Koljonen, author of Göteborg’s annual Nostradamus Report.
Ampere Analysis exec director Guy Bisson returns to Goteborg for a second year running will analyze a series of TV trends to watch out for in 2021 – which he describes as turning on “compounding.” Festival and market executives Frédéric Pittoors d’Haveskercke (Series Mania), Dennis Ruh (European Film Market...
- 1/29/2021
- by Annika Pham
- Variety Film + TV
Göteborg’s TV Drama Vision, the drama series and TV industry strand of Scandinavia’s biggest film-tv festival, has unveiled further details of its works-in-progress and project showcases, as well as keynote speakers from HBO Europe to Walter Presents.
As HBO Max lands in Europe during the second half of 2021, Antony Root, executive VP original programming and production at HBO Europe and Christian Wikander, commissioning editor and VP of Programming, HBO Nordic, discuss the streamer’s vision and creative strategy.
European TV keynote speakers set to outline their vision include Walter Luzzolino, the face and curator behind the globally successful Walter Presents drama brand, who has co founded Eagle Eye Drama to make English-language series inspired by foreign language hits.
As always, top Nordic and international TV execs and streamers will take centre stage to discuss the upcoming trends and challenges ahead. These include drama chiefs from TV2 and Dr in Denmark; Sweden’s Viaplay,...
As HBO Max lands in Europe during the second half of 2021, Antony Root, executive VP original programming and production at HBO Europe and Christian Wikander, commissioning editor and VP of Programming, HBO Nordic, discuss the streamer’s vision and creative strategy.
European TV keynote speakers set to outline their vision include Walter Luzzolino, the face and curator behind the globally successful Walter Presents drama brand, who has co founded Eagle Eye Drama to make English-language series inspired by foreign language hits.
As always, top Nordic and international TV execs and streamers will take centre stage to discuss the upcoming trends and challenges ahead. These include drama chiefs from TV2 and Dr in Denmark; Sweden’s Viaplay,...
- 1/22/2021
- by Ann-Marie Corvin
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s Global Bulletin, the BBC picks up Awkwafina’s latest series, Tove Lo preps her acting debut, HBO Nordics and Australia’s ABC make executive hires, Conecta Fiction Reboot and Mip Cancun share details for their updated events, and Banijay closes a first-look deal with U.K. production company Nineteen11.
Acquisition
BBC Three has picked up comedy series “Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens” from ViacomCBS International Studios and will make it available to stream exclusively on BBC iPlayer in the U.K. later this year.
The 10-part series stars the popular actor-rapper Awkwafina, a Golden Globe winner for her work in “The Farewell,” and is based on her own real-life story growing up in Queens, New York. It co-stars “SNL” alum Bowen Yang, Bd Wong (“Mr Robot”) and Lori Tann Chinn (“Orange is the New Black”).
Lucia Aniello, Natasha Lyonne and Steven K. Tsuchida direct the series, produced...
Acquisition
BBC Three has picked up comedy series “Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens” from ViacomCBS International Studios and will make it available to stream exclusively on BBC iPlayer in the U.K. later this year.
The 10-part series stars the popular actor-rapper Awkwafina, a Golden Globe winner for her work in “The Farewell,” and is based on her own real-life story growing up in Queens, New York. It co-stars “SNL” alum Bowen Yang, Bd Wong (“Mr Robot”) and Lori Tann Chinn (“Orange is the New Black”).
Lucia Aniello, Natasha Lyonne and Steven K. Tsuchida direct the series, produced...
- 8/19/2020
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Europe has hired Christian Wikander as Commissioning Editor and VP Original Programming at the company’s Scandinavian arm, HBO Nordic.
Starting in September, he will be responsible for all Nordic development and production for HBO Europe. Based in Stockholm, he will report to Antony Root, EVP Original Programming and Production.
Wikander is moving from his role as MD at Twelve Town, the London-based producer. He was previously Head of Drama at Swedish public service broadcaster Svt, where he commissioned and served as EP on shows including The Bridge.
Antony Root said: “I am absolutely delighted that Christian has agreed to join us in this senior role. His track record, reputation and wide range of experience in Scandinavia and internationally will be a huge asset as we move into the next phase of growth for our Nordic original programming.”
Christian Wikander added: “Joining HBO Europe will be an honour for...
Starting in September, he will be responsible for all Nordic development and production for HBO Europe. Based in Stockholm, he will report to Antony Root, EVP Original Programming and Production.
Wikander is moving from his role as MD at Twelve Town, the London-based producer. He was previously Head of Drama at Swedish public service broadcaster Svt, where he commissioned and served as EP on shows including The Bridge.
Antony Root said: “I am absolutely delighted that Christian has agreed to join us in this senior role. His track record, reputation and wide range of experience in Scandinavia and internationally will be a huge asset as we move into the next phase of growth for our Nordic original programming.”
Christian Wikander added: “Joining HBO Europe will be an honour for...
- 8/19/2020
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Cannes — This past Monday, five international creatives pitched their prospective series before three jurors and a packed audience of industry watchers as part of the Canneseries In Development program, a joint venture between the upstart festival and the MipTV content market.
The event, titled “Oh My Pitch: Drama Writers’ Pitch,” hosted writers Sabrina Amerell & Alexandre Manneville, Johnny Maginn, Rachel Feldman, and Agata Koschmieder, who spoke of their four projects before a rapt crowd. As part of the hour-long session, jurors Ash Atalla (Roughcut Television), Christian Wikander (Twelve Town), and Jane Gogan (formerly RTÉ) grilled the writers regarding their goals, inspirations and targeted audiences for their pitched projects.
Following all its sessions, prominent European producer-distributor Federation Entertainment will offer one selected project cat In Development co-development, production and distribution assistance, while Gallic aid La Fabrique des Formats plans to pitch in financing help.
American showrunner Rachel Feldman spoke first, introducing her project “Kinks,...
The event, titled “Oh My Pitch: Drama Writers’ Pitch,” hosted writers Sabrina Amerell & Alexandre Manneville, Johnny Maginn, Rachel Feldman, and Agata Koschmieder, who spoke of their four projects before a rapt crowd. As part of the hour-long session, jurors Ash Atalla (Roughcut Television), Christian Wikander (Twelve Town), and Jane Gogan (formerly RTÉ) grilled the writers regarding their goals, inspirations and targeted audiences for their pitched projects.
Following all its sessions, prominent European producer-distributor Federation Entertainment will offer one selected project cat In Development co-development, production and distribution assistance, while Gallic aid La Fabrique des Formats plans to pitch in financing help.
American showrunner Rachel Feldman spoke first, introducing her project “Kinks,...
- 4/9/2019
- by Ben Croll
- Variety Film + TV
Nent Group’s Nordic streaming service Viaplay has boarded “With One Eye Open,” partnering Twelve Town and Nice Drama on the Swedish drama series which brings a fresh look to Swedish and Russian ties.
The eight-part series is based on Martin Österdahl’s “Ask No Mercy,” the first of three books in the Max Anger suspense trilogy.
First pitched at Lille’s Series Mania in May, the project is set in 1996 Saint Petersburg on the run-up to Boris Yeltsin’s election. Max Anger, a former attack diver for the Swedish navy now works for think tank Vektor, set up to help Swedish companies open up shop in Russia. When his Russian/Swedish girlfriend suddenly goes missing, while investigating a neo-Stalinist plot against Sweden, he goes on a mission to rescue her and at the same time, uncovers secrets about his own past.
In the lead-up to TV Drama Vision on Jan.
The eight-part series is based on Martin Österdahl’s “Ask No Mercy,” the first of three books in the Max Anger suspense trilogy.
First pitched at Lille’s Series Mania in May, the project is set in 1996 Saint Petersburg on the run-up to Boris Yeltsin’s election. Max Anger, a former attack diver for the Swedish navy now works for think tank Vektor, set up to help Swedish companies open up shop in Russia. When his Russian/Swedish girlfriend suddenly goes missing, while investigating a neo-Stalinist plot against Sweden, he goes on a mission to rescue her and at the same time, uncovers secrets about his own past.
In the lead-up to TV Drama Vision on Jan.
- 1/30/2019
- by Annika Pham
- Variety Film + TV
Lille, France — Sweden’s Nice Drama and the U.K.’s Twelve Town, formerly Pinewood Television, have purchased the rights to Martin Österdahl’s bestselling Max Anger novels, and optioned them as a high-end multi-season drama series, which the companies presented at the Series Mania Co-Pro Pitching Sessions in Lille.
Executive producers Stefan Baron of Nice Drama and Christian Wikander of Twelve Town were at the Series Mania Forum on behalf of the series, looking to secure European partners to aid in making “With One Eye Open” a high-end series, intended for the international market.
A development deal has already been signed with Swedish pubcaster Svt for two scripts, written by TV veterans Lars Lundström (“Real Humans”) and Anders Sparring (“Farang”), and an outline based on th3 first of Österdahl’s books, “Ask No Mercy,” with shooting planned for spring 2019.
The series, adapted from the first of Österdahl’s two...
Executive producers Stefan Baron of Nice Drama and Christian Wikander of Twelve Town were at the Series Mania Forum on behalf of the series, looking to secure European partners to aid in making “With One Eye Open” a high-end series, intended for the international market.
A development deal has already been signed with Swedish pubcaster Svt for two scripts, written by TV veterans Lars Lundström (“Real Humans”) and Anders Sparring (“Farang”), and an outline based on th3 first of Österdahl’s books, “Ask No Mercy,” with shooting planned for spring 2019.
The series, adapted from the first of Österdahl’s two...
- 5/3/2018
- by Jamie Lang and John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
UK film studio agrees deal with private equity fund; Swedish TV executive Christian Wikander joins Pinewood Television.
Pinewood Studios has agreed a deal to go private after accepting an offer of £323m from asset management business Aermont Capital.
The iconic UK studios, home to the Bond and Carry On franchises, as well as a string of recent Us blockbusters, has said the sale will fuel ambitious expansion plans.
Under the deal, shareholders will receive 560p in cash per share, as well as a 3.2p dividend.
Commenting on the offer, Lord Grade of Yarmouth, chairman of Pinewood, said: “The Board believes that [the deal] can provide Pinewood with the platform required for future growth. The Pinewood Group has been transformed in recent years but has been somewhat constrained in realising its ambitions due to the lack of share liquidity.
“As a result of the Strategic Review instigated by the Board, Pinewood now has the prospect of a funding structure for the...
Pinewood Studios has agreed a deal to go private after accepting an offer of £323m from asset management business Aermont Capital.
The iconic UK studios, home to the Bond and Carry On franchises, as well as a string of recent Us blockbusters, has said the sale will fuel ambitious expansion plans.
Under the deal, shareholders will receive 560p in cash per share, as well as a 3.2p dividend.
Commenting on the offer, Lord Grade of Yarmouth, chairman of Pinewood, said: “The Board believes that [the deal] can provide Pinewood with the platform required for future growth. The Pinewood Group has been transformed in recent years but has been somewhat constrained in realising its ambitions due to the lack of share liquidity.
“As a result of the Strategic Review instigated by the Board, Pinewood now has the prospect of a funding structure for the...
- 8/15/2016
- ScreenDaily
A roundup of Nordic news from the Goteborg Film Festival and Nordic Film Market.Mitic wins As It Is
Goteborg’s Nordic Film Market has introduced a new screenwriting competition, As It Is, which is backed by Svt and Women In Film and Television Sweden and designed to support stories challenging the norm. The winner of the first $17,850 (SEK150,000) development award is Aftermath by Dragan Mitic.
The competition had 219 entries, of which four were selected for pitching at TV Drama Vision. The winner’s “story is about social heritage in power over the individual and whether its possible to free oneself from it. There are several strong, engaging female characters as well as young people searching for identity,” said Christian Wikander, head of drama at Svt.
Colliander joins Sfi
The Swedish Film Institute has appointed Kristina Colliander as Head of Production. She reports to Kristina Börjeson, head of the institute’s Film Support Department. Colliander had been...
Goteborg’s Nordic Film Market has introduced a new screenwriting competition, As It Is, which is backed by Svt and Women In Film and Television Sweden and designed to support stories challenging the norm. The winner of the first $17,850 (SEK150,000) development award is Aftermath by Dragan Mitic.
The competition had 219 entries, of which four were selected for pitching at TV Drama Vision. The winner’s “story is about social heritage in power over the individual and whether its possible to free oneself from it. There are several strong, engaging female characters as well as young people searching for identity,” said Christian Wikander, head of drama at Svt.
Colliander joins Sfi
The Swedish Film Institute has appointed Kristina Colliander as Head of Production. She reports to Kristina Börjeson, head of the institute’s Film Support Department. Colliander had been...
- 2/4/2016
- by wendy.mitchell@screendaily.com (Wendy Mitchell)
- ScreenDaily
Variety reports that the Bergman project will be filmed as a four-part mini series with a feature film in mind. Shooting begins in the fall of next year, which means if Bier really wants to, she could finish off The Revenge, bring it to the festivals and follow up with Which Brings Me to You. - The next question is: what behind the scenes re-enactments, what actors will sign up for this series/feature film? A female filmmaker who can direct drama in Susanne Bier will touch upon bigger than life material in a biopic series on Sweden's master filmmaker, Ingmar Bergman. Variety reports that the Bergman project will be filmed as a four-part mini series with a feature film in mind. Shooting begins in the fall of next year, which means if Bier really wants to, she could finish off The Revenge, bring it to the festivals and follow...
- 2/18/2010
- IONCINEMA.com
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