E1 eyes UK/ Canadian copros

Canadian producer and distributor E1 Entertainment is eyeing a number of UK/ Canadian coproductions following the success of its recent slate of dramas that have been picked up in the United States.

The company has sold rookie cop drama Copper to ABC and The Bridge to CBS and its dark adult comedy Hung has recorded hit ratings for US cable network HBO.

Noreen Halpern, president, television production, US, E1 Entertainment, told TBIvision that the company is very close to inking a deal in the UK.

“The next focus for is adding the same success in the UK and the rest of Europe. The UK is a natural fit so partnering with a UK company makes a lot of sense. We’re looking for UK/ Canadian coproduction opportunities,” she adds.

E1 Entertainment’s next project is Shattered, a drama about a reclusive police officer who uses his multiple personality disorder to solve crimes. The show, which stars Californication’s Callum Keith Rennie and is exec produced by The Shield’s Kim Clements, was commissioned by Canadian broadcaster Canwest. The show has just started production and E1 Entertainment will start pitching to international broadcasters this month.