Banijay global scripted chief Christian Wikander exits after nine months

Rogue Heroes (Source: BBC)

Banijay’s global head of scripted, Christian Wikander, is exiting after just nine months in the role.

Chief business officer, Frédéric Balmary, will take temporary charge of the team following Wikander’s exit, while the role is reviewed, a Banijay spokesperson told TBI.

Former HBO Max commissioner Wikander will depart Banijay on 2 February, almost exactly nine months since he stepped into the role on 1 May 2023, following the exit of Lars Blomgren to Media Res in December 2022.

His remit includes leading “strategic IP creation” increasing collaboration across the group’s drama firms, as well as exploiting format potential and identifying third-party acquisitions.

Christian Wikander

“During his tenure, he has been integral to driving collaboration across the European studio’s 60+ scripted labels, while concentrating on building a team that is effective in strengthening the pipeline of new IP and returning, critically-acclaimed hits; exploring further format travel opportunities; and offering support in financing projects across the footprint,” said Banijay in a statement.

The company added that during Wikander’s time at Banijay, the company had experienced “significant growth in scripted driven by M&A and continued streamer investment, with a burgeoning pipeline in place for 2024.”

Banijay’s scripted slate includes SAS: Rogue Heroes for the BBC, Marie Antoinette for Canal+, Ronja for Viaplay and Bosé for Paramount+.

Wikander joined Banijay from HBO Max Nordic last year, where, since 2020, he served as commissioning editor & VP, original programming. There, he was responsible for developing original scripted series across the Nordic footprint, partnering with creators, producers, and key talent, both locally and internationally.

Prior to that, he was MD of London-based Twelve Town, having joined in 2016 as head of drama for Europe.

Wikander’s exit was first reported by Deadline.