FremantleMedia inks Oz deal, hires kids exec

International distributor FremantleMedia Enterprises has struck a first look deal with Australian indie producer Playmaker as it looks to boost its drama output.

FremantleMedia Enterprises will work with Playmaker Media, which is run by David Taylor and David Maher, to develop, finance and distribute its programming internationally. The two companies have already worked together on youth skewing drama Slide, which airs on Fox8. This move is also the latest move in the country by FremantleMedia Enterprises, which has had success distributing adult drama Satisfaction and crime drama The Strip.

Separately, the company has hired former Nickelodeon exec Alyssa Cooper for its nascent kids business. Cooper will become vice president, programming, children and family entertainment and will report to SVP Bob Higgins.

FremantleMedia Enterprises launched its kids division in October 2009 with the hire of former Warner Bros and Sony exec Sander Schwartz.