Banijay’s Scripted Head Offers ‘Optimism’ for TV Producers Despite Commissioning Slowdown: ‘Now Is the Time’ to Take Risks

A recent report highlights a concerning trend in Italy's entertainment sector, revealing a 12% drop in original content output, totaling 658 hours. This decline is primarily attributed to reduced commissions from U.S. streamers, despite a 9% increase in overall investment in the TV and film industries. This situation raises questions about the future of Italian storytelling and its competitiveness in the global market, as fewer original productions could impact cultural representation and economic growth.

At the MIA Market, Steve Matthews, the Head of Scripted at Banijay, encouraged producers to break free from the 'doom loop' of pessimism surrounding conservative commissioning trends in global streaming. He highlighted that there are positive signs in drama commissioning, suggesting that the industry is evolving and adapting. This perspective is crucial as it can inspire producers to innovate and explore new creative avenues, ultimately benefiting the entire entertainment landscape.

Banijay Entertainment is making a significant move by acquiring the international rights to the popular obstacle course format, Ninja Warrior, originally created by TBS in Japan. This deal allows Banijay to distribute the show globally, except in the U.S., Asia, France, Germany, and Poland. This expansion is exciting as it opens up new opportunities for audiences around the world to enjoy this thrilling competition, showcasing athleticism and determination.

Marco Bassetti, the head of Banijay Entertainment, is set to receive the Variety Vanguard Award at the Mipcom conference, highlighting his significant contributions to the industry. While he prefers to focus on business success and profit margins rather than accolades, this recognition underscores his leadership in navigating industry challenges and leveraging popular franchises. Bassetti's calm demeanor and strategic vision are pivotal as live entertainment continues to evolve, making this award not just a personal achievement but a testament to the resilience and innovation within the entertainment sector.

Sky has made an exciting acquisition by securing the rights to 'The Miniature Wife,' a comedy-drama featuring Elizabeth Banks and Matthew Macfadyen, set to premiere in 2026. This show promises to bring humor to the complexities of marriage, making it a highly anticipated addition to Sky's lineup. With the star power of Banks and Macfadyen, this series is expected to attract a wide audience, showcasing Sky's commitment to delivering quality entertainment.

Banijay Nordic has made a significant move by appointing Georgie Mathew, a Netflix executive, as the new CEO of Filmlance, a prominent production company in Stockholm. This change comes ahead of Hanne Palmquist's exit and is set to take effect in January 2026. Mathew's experience at Netflix Nordic, where he played a key role in developing original series, positions him well to lead Filmlance into a new era. This appointment is exciting as it signals Banijay's commitment to enhancing its production capabilities in the Scandinavian market.

Amelia Dimoldenberg, known for her hit show 'Chicken Shop Date,' is launching a new YouTube series called 'Passenger Princess' in collaboration with Formula 1. This exciting partnership marks a new chapter for Dimoldenberg as she steps into the fast-paced world of motorsport, bringing her unique interviewing style to a new audience. The four-part series promises to blend celebrity interviews with the thrill of racing, making it a must-watch for fans of both entertainment and F1. This venture not only showcases Dimoldenberg's versatility but also highlights the growing intersection between pop culture and sports.

Secuoya Studios is set to receive the prestigious MIP SDG Award at Mipcom Cannes for its impactful sustainable production program. This recognition, presented in partnership with the United Nations, highlights the studio's commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The award, established in 2020, underscores the importance of sustainability in the entertainment industry, making this achievement not only a win for Secuoya but also a significant step forward for eco-friendly practices in media production.

Yash Raj Films is making a significant return to the U.K. with a new three-picture deal that is set to create around 3,000 jobs. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced this exciting news during his visit to Yash Raj Studios in Mumbai. This move not only strengthens the cultural ties between India and the U.K. but also boosts the local economy through job creation and increased production activity in the film industry.

The Producers Guild of India has teamed up with the U.K. trade body Pact to enhance collaboration between their film industries. This Memorandum of Understanding is part of a broader initiative to strengthen U.K.-India partnerships, which was recently announced. By fostering closer ties, both nations aim to boost their production sectors, creating more opportunities for filmmakers and enhancing cultural exchange. This collaboration is significant as it opens doors for co-productions and shared resources, ultimately enriching the cinematic landscape in both countries.