FremantleMedia takes rights to Irish genealogy series

FremantleMedia has picked up format rights to Genealogy Roadshow.

The show was created by Irish indie producer Big Mountain Productions and airs on RTÉ in Ireland. The pubcaster has just ordered a second season of the series, which helps people find out about the histories of their families.

PBS is about to launch a US version of the format.

FremantleMedia has international format rights and will launch it at MIPCOM.

Rob Clark, director, global entertainment development, FremantleMedia said: ”Genealogy is a fascinating and rich area for TV and this format delivers captivating and emotional stories for both the viewer and the participants. We wish the show well as it launches in the US and look forward to its global roll out.”

Philip McGovern, CEO, Big Mountain Productions added: “The format has just hit a nerve. Everybody wants answers to questions about their own histories to help make sense of their lives today.”