Banijay to produce French version of Keshet’s Marathon

French production company Banijay is to produce a local version of Israeli format Marathon after striking a deal with Keshet International.

The French production arm of the international producer and distributor has optioned the format, making it the first global partner to remake the series.

Marathon sees five people with no athletic background get together to run a marathon in eight months. The format was originally produced by Kuperman Productions for Channel 2, where it will launch in Israel next year.

Keshet International launched the format at MIPCOM last month.

Keren Shahar, Keshet International’s head of distribution and acquisitions said: “Marathon is an ambitious format with universal themes of fitness, personal battles and triumph against all odds. We have high expectations for the format when it premieres in Israel next year and we are already in advanced discussions with a number of international broadcasters.”