FremantleMedia cuts format deal with Japanese broadcaster Asahi

FremantleMedia has inked a development deal with Asahi and will develop and distribute the Japanese broadcaster’s formats internationally.

FremantleMedia already has a deal with Japan’s Fuji TV and the pair have co-developed two formats, Troubleshooter and Total Blackout.

The deal with Asahi will see FremantleMedia mine the broadcaster’s catalogue and identify formats that it can develop into global franchises.

“ABC has a diverse range of variety and reality shows in its catalogue, and we’re also continually developing new programming,” said Satoshi Wakisaka, president, Asahi Broadcasting Corporation. “FremantleMedia’s reputation for transforming Japanese content into formats for a global market is second to none and we are looking forward to working with them to further extend the value of our catalogue now and in future.”

Mr. Gary Carter, COO, FremantleMedia said: “ABC’s catalogue spans back over half a century, and until now it has mainly been for the enjoyment of Japanese viewers. We see great potential in their current and future content and we’re looking forward to working with them to entertain viewers around the world.”