Keshet signs scripted deal with Facet4

Keshet International has signed a co-development deal with Facet4 Media, an independent Canadian production company.

The pair will develop selected drama and comedy projects for the Canadian and international marketplace.

This comes after KI, Keshet Media Group’s global production and distribution arm, launched LA-based Keshet Studios, and a European drama initiative that will see KI develop and fund around four drama projects a year.

Facet4 launched last year and is focused on creating, developing and packaging projects with international appeal. Industry veteran Stephen Greenberg founded the firm, with head of creative Anna-Sue Greenberg and Jamie Greenberg as head of business development. The Facet4 team has produced more than 50 made-for-TV movies, dramas and documentaries in total.

“We believe that together with KI’s passion and creativity we have the capacity to build on the strengths of both companies and satisfy the ever-growing need of broadcasters around the world with entertaining and quality programming,” said Stephen Greenberg.

“With its balance of North American and British sensibilities, Canada is an essential market for Keshet International,” said Cynthia Kennedy, sales director of KI.

“Stephen and his team share our passion for great storytelling and this is at the core of everything we do at KI, making them an ideal partner in Canada. We look forward to growing our presence in Canada with the same momentum we have achieved in key territories such as the US and the UK.”

Today’s press announcement made no mention of Keshet Canada, the joint venture in launched 2013.

Mark Rubenstein, who oversaw the venture, was named CEO and president of a Canadian skiing body six months after its establishment, but reps at the time said this would not effect the Keshet operation.

No-one at KI was available this morning to clarify.