ITV Studios Global Entertainment, the U.K. broadcaster’s international distribution arm, has signed a scripted format deal with China’s Huace Film & TV.
Under the terms of the agreement, Huace will produce a Chinese version of an existing ITV Studios scripted format, and also handle its distribution across Asia. ITVS GE will then oversee sales for the rest of the world. The deal was brokered by Nancy Wang, senior sales manager for China, Hong Kong and Taiwan at ITVS GE.
Mike Beale, exec VP of global development and formats for ITV Studios, said: “We have a wide and rich portfolio of scripted shows and it’s a perfect fit with our global content strategy to exploit this in Asia and beyond.
"Much like the rest of the world, the demand for drama in Asia continues to grow, and our relationships with some of the world’s best producers and writers positions us perfectly to take advantage of this.”
Last year, ITVS GE and Huace announced a cooperative agreement with Beijing TV for “Star on Ice” to be produced in China in the lead-up to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games. The first season will air in January.
ITV Studios Global Entertainment’s drama slate includes “Good Witch,” “Prime Suspect: Tennison,” “Victoria,” “Fearless,” “Cold Feet,” and “Loch Ness.”