DRG snags rights to Channel 5 shows

DRG has picked up a raft of titles from 5Production, the programme-making arm of Viacom’s Channel 5.

UK-based DRG has a longstanding relationship with Channel 5 and will sell several of its factual and entertainment shows as a result of the new distribution deal.

MTG-owned DRG will launch Benefits Britain, Caught on Camera and Marco Pierre White’s Kitchen Wars. It has also taken historical doc series War of the Roses.

The distributor has previously sold earlier seasons of ob doc show Caught on Camera into Australia, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.

“5Production are masters at producing non-scripted content that has broad, international appeal that often tap into global trends or universal issues,” said DRG’s commercial director Wayne Davison. “We are delighted to continue our relationship with 5Production and look forward to building on the substantial success we have already achieved together.”

Channel 5’s head of commercial development, Melissa Goodwin added: “We have worked with DRG for a number of years and have always found that they deliver a first class service through all parts of TV sales and distribution.”

DRG has taken the rights despite Viacom having its own dedicated content sales unit, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN). It has, however, been working with Channel 5 for a number of years, predating the broadcaster being bought by the US media giant.

At MIPCOM last week, DRG was selling 5Production shows including Never Teach Your Wife To Drive (pictured), Conspiracy, Christmas Cracker and Witches – A Century Of Murder.