DRG pens scripted deal with NRK

UK-based distributor DRG has expanded its relationship with NRK by securing exclusive first-look rights to the Norwegian public broadcaster’s entire scripted output.

The deal comprises finished programmes and formats. DRG already distributes NRK’s unscripted formats.

Under terms of the new deal, DRG has taken international rights to scripted format Eyewitness, which is billed as a Nordic noir in which two teenagers are cast as key witnesses in an underworld murder case.

“As a license funded public service broadcaster, it’s not just about the money for NRK,” said head of format development at NRK, Ole Hedemann. “It’s also about benchmarking our creativity against the world, by making international success stories and building pride of being a part of NRK’s creative staff. DRG helps us reach all of these targets.”

In further news, DRG has sold NRK comedy format Useless to independent US producer Eddie October Productions. Elsewhere, American content and media company Mandalay Sports Media has optioned rights to gameshow format Adios and reality competition format Nations Toughest.