Banijay Picks Up Buzzy Reality Format ‘Werewolves’ For Multiple Territories From Studiocanal and Dreamspark (EXCLUSIVE)

Richard Gadd's new drama series 'Half Man' is making waves at MIPCOM, securing distribution deals with Stan in Australia and Crave in Canada. This is significant as it highlights the growing international interest in innovative storytelling and the potential for Gadd's work to reach wider audiences. The success at MIPCOM not only boosts Gadd's profile but also showcases the strength of the BBC and HBO collaboration.

Banijay Entertainment is making waves by launching a professional soccer team in the Netherlands, named FC Failliet/Finesse (FCF), in collaboration with popular social media creators like Ilias Vietto, Aimane Charbon, and Kleine John. This initiative not only diversifies Banijay's portfolio but also brings a fresh approach to sports entertainment, merging traditional soccer with the influence of digital creators. It's an exciting development for fans and a unique opportunity for the creators to engage with their audience in a new way.

Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic is excited to announce a new travel docu series titled 'Tres Hinchapelotas' as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Featuring popular Latino figures like Jaime Camil, Marcelo Tinelli, and Jorge Enrique, the series aims to capture the spirit of the tournament through the eyes of passionate fans. This initiative not only highlights the cultural significance of the World Cup but also showcases the vibrant Latino community's enthusiasm for soccer, making it a must-watch for fans everywhere.

In the latest episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast, Leo Barraclough shares insights from Day 2 of the Mipcom content market in Cannes, France. The atmosphere is buzzing with excitement as he discusses his conversation with Robbie Brenner, president of Mattel Studios. This event is significant as it showcases the latest trends and innovations in the content industry, making it a key gathering for professionals looking to network and explore new opportunities.

Disney's 'Tron: Ares' has made a strong debut at the top of the U.K. and Ireland box office, earning £1.7 million ($2.4 million). This impressive opening highlights the film's appeal and sets a positive tone for its future performance. Meanwhile, Warner Bros.' 'One Battle After Another' continues to perform well, accumulating a total of $11.2 million. The success of these films is significant as it reflects the ongoing recovery of the cinema industry and the audience's eagerness to return to theaters.

Banijay and YouTube are teaming up to launch an Entertainment Creators Lab in France, aiming to harness the growing creator economy. This initiative, announced by Banijay's Marco Bassetti at Mipcom, will feature a dedicated channel called Banijay Creators Studio, designed to connect creators with industry professionals. This partnership is significant as it not only supports content creators but also enhances the diversity of entertainment formats available, fostering innovation in the industry.

Banijay Entertainment is making waves by announcing the launch of 10 new pilot projects at Mipcom, as shared by CEO Marco Bassetti. This initiative taps into the creator economy in France and the U.K., leveraging previously unused intellectual property from their catalog. Bassetti views this as a valuable opportunity to experiment and potentially expand their offerings, which could reshape the entertainment landscape and provide fresh content for audiences.

Banijay's recent acquisition of the Netherlands-based creator label Werktitel marks a significant move in the evolving creator economy. Announced at MIPCOM in Cannes, this deal highlights the growing importance of creators in the media landscape, as Banijay aims to enhance its portfolio and adapt to changing market dynamics. This acquisition not only strengthens Banijay's position but also reflects a broader trend where traditional media companies are increasingly investing in creator-driven content.

Avalon founder Jon Thoday has responded to the lawsuit filed by Studiocanal and the estate of Michael Bond over a satirical depiction of Paddington Bear in the puppet show Spitting Image. Thoday expressed surprise that a company involved in comedy would pursue legal action for what he considers a joke. This lawsuit raises important questions about copyright in the realm of satire and comedy, highlighting the tensions between creative expression and intellectual property rights.

Lauryn Hill has shared an emotional tribute following the passing of D'Angelo, reflecting on his profound impact on the music industry. This heartfelt remembrance not only honors D'Angelo's legacy but also highlights the deep connections artists share and the void left by such losses. Hill's tribute serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating the contributions of influential musicians while they are still with us.

NBC has just unveiled the trailer for 'Stumble,' a new comedy series featuring Jenn Lyon as a cheerleading coach facing tough challenges. Set in the competitive world of junior college cheerleading, this mockumentary promises to deliver laughs while highlighting the intense stakes involved. It's an exciting addition to NBC's lineup, showcasing the underdog spirit and the vibrant culture of cheerleading, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

The National Theatre's new season under Indhu Rubasingham is off to an exciting start, showcasing fresh interpretations of classic works by Euripides and Shakespeare. Meanwhile, Stephen Fry is captivating audiences in the West End with his sharp wit in 'The Importance of Being Earnest,' and a musical version of 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' is impressively intimate. This revitalization of classic theatre not only brings new life to these timeless stories but also highlights the importance of innovative storytelling in today's cultural landscape.

Gwyneth Paltrow has publicly criticized Amy Odell's biography, 'Gwyneth: The Biography,' calling the author a 'hack' for failing to capture her true essence. In a recent interview, Paltrow expressed her disappointment with the book, which she did not contribute to, highlighting the disconnect between her real life and the portrayal in the biography. This matters because it sheds light on the challenges celebrities face with unauthorized biographies and the impact such narratives can have on their public image.

King Charles's net worth has been revealed to be significantly higher than that of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. This increase in wealth, primarily inherited from her, highlights the financial legacy left behind by the queen and the ongoing evolution of the monarchy's financial landscape. It matters because it reflects the changing dynamics of royal wealth and the impact of inheritance on the royal family's financial status.

Sarah Ferguson's friends and family have raised questions about her marriage to Prince Andrew, speculating whether her motivations were tied to gaining royal status. This discussion highlights the ongoing public interest in royal relationships and the scrutiny they face, reflecting broader themes of love, duty, and public perception.