Fremantle sues over Farmer format

RTL-backed production and distribution group FremantleMedia has taken the unusual step of initiating legal proceeding against Swiss broadcaster 3 Plus for allegedly airing an entertainment format that could be confused with its own show The Farmer Wants a Wife. FremantleMedia has filed a compliant with a Swiss commercial court.

The 3 Plus show at the center of the case is Bauer, ledig, sucht, which translates as Single Farmer Searches. FremantleMedia says its production team held detailed discussions with 3 Plus about The Farmer Wants a Wife format that were then cut off ahead of the broadcaster launching Bauer, ledig, sucht.