Entertainment One (eOne) has acquired a majority stake in UK non-scripted television production company Whizz Kid Entertainment, led by company founder Malcolm Gerrie and Lisa Chapman.

The deal is eOne’s first UK-based television production company acquisition. However the acquisition further bolsters a robust eOne UK business that includes the company’s Family & Brands business and its international distribution operations. The move also fits in with eOne’s ambition to grow and invest in the non-scripted business.

Established in 2006, Whizz Kid has a strong track record in non-scripted brands, having produced shows such as Ex on the Beach and Let’s Dance. The company is also a leading live event specialist producing the BAFTAs among other events. Following the deal there are hopes that Whizz Kid will be able to introduce eOne’s US non-scripted slate into the UK. eOne is also adapting Ex on the Beach for MTV in the US.

“Whizz Kid gives us a strong footing in one of the most creative markets in the world and is a great first step in our ambitious non-scripted global expansion strategy,” said eOne’s Tara Long, EVP, Alternative, Television. “Malcolm is a highly-respected industry executive with broad experience in the international market.”

Gerrie, CEO, Whizz Kid Entertainment, added: “From the first moment we met Tara and the eOne non-scripted team we knew there was a real chemistry. eOne is a major player on the world stage and I’m thrilled to partner them on this next chapter of the Whizz Kid story.”