BBC Worldwide and Europe-based film and TV Company Anton have announced The Drama Investment Partnership: a new pool of funding secured for investment in premium British drama titles with international appeal.
Capable of backing programmes of the highest calibre, BBC Worldwide expects to greenlight a slate worth at least £150m over its initial three-year period.
The Drama Investment Partnershipaims to increase the pace and flow of ambitious projects from British production companies by having readily accessible capital in place at the point of commission.
Its speed and simplicity will provide a differentiation in the highly competitive market for premium scripted series.
BBC Worldwide will identify projects for development and investment, and will take on global marketing and distribution of titles financed byThe Drama Investment Partnership.
The Drama Investment Partnershipis structured as an exclusive co-financing relationship with Anton, with both parties providing investment funding. Anton has an established track record in premium global IP investment, having supported titles including‘Shaun the Sheep’,‘Legend’,‘Paddington’ and ‘Tinker, Tailor, Solider, Spy’.
Tim Davie, CEO, BBC Worldwide, said: “WithThe Drama Investment Partnership, we are actively bringing new funding opportunities to the market, consistent with our history of pioneering financing and partnership deals. We are delighted to welcome Anton as our partner forThe Drama Investment Partnership, and are confident that the new funds will unlock greater opportunities for content makers and commissioners to ensure the very best of British drama continues to be made for audiences across the world.”
Anton is a Europe-based film and TV company founded by Sébastien Raybaud and investing alongside a wide network of distributors and producers throughout the world. Anton has co-produced or co-financed over 200 titles to date and is now distributing directly in Africa and Asia.
Sébastien Raybaud, CEO, Anton, said: “In a market flooded with content, it has become critical to stand out. This is why we are backing BBC Worldwide’s strategy to target ambitious high-end drama. With its brand, reach and commitment to high quality content, BBC Worldwide is well positioned to offer talent an attractive home for large budget series.”
The launch ofThe Drama Investment Partnershipis consistent with BBC Worldwide’s significant focus on investment into premium scripted content, and follows a number of equity investments into independent drama producers, and shareholder participation in complementary investment vehicle Benchmark Capital.