Newen Studios takes majority stake in former TF1 exec Marie Guillaumond’s prodco Felicita

Marie Guillaumond

France’s Newen Studios has acquired a majority stake in Felicita, the production firm launched by former TF1 exec Marie Guillaumond.

The prodco was founded in 2019 and has produced programming including Belle Belle Belle, Mensonges and Entre Ses Mains, as well as features such as the forthcoming A La Hauteur, from Delphine and Muriel Coulin. Felicita also has has around ten projects in development for both local players and global streamers.

Guillaumond set up the company having been a journalist and then working across programming for Newen owner, TF1.

In 2013, she became the artistic director of French fiction, greenlighting shows such as L’Emprise, Le Secret d’Elise, La Mante and Les Bracelets Rouges.

Romain Bessi, Newen Studios president, said: “Our growth and development relies on our ability to attract and bring together the best talent in the business and as such, I’m delighted to welcome Marie Guillaumond to the Newen Studios family.

“She is not only a hugely talented producer, but also has a successful track record as the creative director of French fiction at TFI as well as projects in development that are both groundbreaking and exciting.”

Guillaumond added: “This collaboration is the logical next step in a long-standing relationship that began in 2008 with the TF1 group. It is also an opportunity for Felicita to strengthen its development by aligning with an ambitious and powerful group capable of elevating its television and film projects to new heights in France and internationally.”

Newen Studios now houses more than 50 creative labels following deals for companies such as Nordic firm Anagram and UK-based Rise Films last year, with bases in 11 countries.