Sony strikes major deal for Gaumont’s Hannibal

Sony’s AXN will air US network drama Hannibal in 63 territories across the world after striking a deal with Gaumont International Television.

The coproduction agreement is the first global deal for the series, based on Thomas Harris’ Hannibal Lecter, that will air on NBC in the United States.

Sony Pictures Television Networks has acquired the 13-episode series, which is produced by Pushing Daisies’ Bryan Fuller, across Asia, Latin America, Central Europe, Africa, Germany, Japan, Portugal, Russia and Spain.

The deal was struck between Marie Jacobson, executive vice president, programming and production, Networks, SPT and Erik Pack, head international distribution and co-production, Gaumont International Television.

It is AXN’s latest international coproduction following the broadcaster’s deal with Entertainment One for legal drama The Firm. Production will start in July.

“Hannibal continues our strategic efforts to develop defining shows for SPT’s networks,” said Jacobson. “Gaumont has assembled a world class team to bring this bold origin story to life.”