Banijay buys French sports & drama prodco Puzzle Media

Banijay is expanding its French operations by acquiring local production outfit Puzzle Media.

The deal will see Banijay’s Endemol France arm pick up a majority stake in Puzzle, which specialises in action, adventure and alternative culture.

It is behind shows including France Télévision’s Riding Zone and will “expand development potential in the sports space, particularly in digital and non-linear,” Banijay said.

Puzzle Media was created in 2007 by Jonathan Politur and also counts fellow France Télévisions drama L’Amour à l’Epreuve among its offerings.

Jean-François Rubinstein, COO at Endemol France, said: “Growing in this area, as well as strengthening our digital presence are major priorities for Endemol France, and with Puzzle Media, we have found the ideal partner to accelerate both. It could not be better timing with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games ahead.”

Politur added that the deal “will allow us to develop our brands in the world of sport and bring together a young and passionate audience. The business can also bring more exposure to our portfolio and via the wider group of Banijay, we anticipate there being more opportunity to reach new broadcasters and platforms in France and beyond.”

Endemol France’s slate includes Les 12 Coups de Midi (TF1), Prodiges (France 2), Patron Incognito (M6) and LOL: Qui Rit, Sort! for Amazon Prime Video.