Fremantle names Fatima Salaria to lead merged UK labels Boundless & Naked

The Apprentice (UK)

Fremantle has restructured the operations of its UK-based unscripted production houses Boundless and the recently acquired Naked, with the former’s MD Neil Smith exiting as a result.

The two divisions will be merged into a single entity called Naked Television and be led by Fatima Salaria, the former Channel 4 exec who was appointed MD at Naked in July. She replaced former chief Simon Andreae, who was appointed CEO at Naked’s parent company Fremantle UK, replacing Liam Humphreys.

Fatima Salaria

The merged label will house Naked and Boundless’s formats and production infrastructure, with a slate ranging from entertainment franchises such as The Apprentice and The Rap Game UK, to factual entertainment series like Grand Designs and factual programmes including 60 Days On The Streets.

Boundless MD Smith is leaving to pursue new ventures, according to Fremantle, which acquired a minority stake in Andreae-founded Naked in 2015 and took full control in February.

Andreae said the “new Naked” would “represent a hallmark of both quality and innovation in the global unscripted universe”, while Salaria added that the prodco would look to combine “the very best talent, expertise and portfolios” to expand its factual offering.

Andreae continued: “During his time here, Neil’s grown Boundless’ production portfolio, diversified its client base and consolidated its reputation as a leading supplier of world class programming. He leaves it in a strong position and with some exciting projects in the offing. We wish him all the best for the future.”

Smith said: “It’s been a blast and I wish Fatima lots of luck. I am looking forward to my next step, in developing content with a purpose.”

 

Most Recent