UK distributor Passion launches ‘producer programming brief’

Sean Wheatley

UK sales firm Passion Distribution has launched a new initiative to support producers and set out an unscripted programming “wish list” for IP owners.

The ‘Producers Programming’ brief will see Passion share its latest market intelligence with prodcos, focused on the current needs of the international market.

Passion said it wanted to expand opportunities for pre-sales, deficit-funding and coproductions, while it would also offer insights regarding the best strategy to maximise revenue for programmes and format roll-outs globally.

The UK distributor added that it was also on the look-out for new unscripted content, with a focus on entertainment, including gameshows, dating and competition reality IP.

Character-driven factual entertainment shows are also being sought, along with “ambitious” premium factual series, investigative or fast-turnaround programmes, crime and “escapist” lifestyle IP.

Sean Wheatley, head of acquisitions at Passion, said: “As a global distributor, Passion Distribution is looking for a wide variety of unscripted programmes that meet the differing needs of clients.

“Most producers found 2020 to be a difficult year, though we know many found innovative ways to continue to produce new shows. Passion Distribution is looking forward to new opportunities in 2021 and we are reaching out to producers and content makers for new, unmissable shows whether they’re entertainment formats or single documentaries.”

Passion’s slate currently includes The Great Plague, Dynamo: Beyond Belief and Handmade In Africa, alongside brands such as Robot Wars and Worst Driver.