Industry

BBC Studios Germany is expanding into the fast-growing comedy and reality genres with the launch of a dedicated label based in Munich. The new division, part of BBC Studios Germany, will be headed by acclaimed format expert Nina Etspüler, who will officially join the company on January 1, 2026.

This strategic move builds on BBC Studios Germany’s strong foundation in scripted and entertainment programming, addressing the rising demand for comedy and reality content in the German television and streaming landscape.

In her new role as Producer and Executive Producer, Etspüler—whose career includes senior positions at Leonine Studios, Red Arrow Studios, Florida TV, and ProSiebenSat.1—will collaborate closely with the BBC Studios Germany team in Cologne. Together, they will establish and grow the new label, initially focusing on adapting successful BBC formats for the German market while also developing original IP for broadcasters and streamers. The division will further strengthen ties with creative talent and on-screen personalities.

Phil Schmid, Managing Director of BBC Studios Germany, said:"Nina Etspüler is one of the most respected and creative leaders in our industry. She brings exceptional expertise in development, production, and format adaptation, along with an outstanding network spanning broadcasters, streaming services, artists, and creatives. This is a perfect strategic fit for our ambitions in Germany and an equally strong match on a personal level. With Nina joining in January 2026—alongside our fantastic Entertainment team led by Markus Templin and our growing Fiction division under Eva Holtmann—we look forward with confidence and excitement to the next chapter of BBC Studios Germany’s growth."

Nina Etspüler added:"My time at Leonine Studios was both exciting and formative. I’m proud to have built Madame Zheng Production into an established player in reality, factual entertainment, and reportage, together with my co-managing director Tina Wagner and a fantastic team. At I&U TV, we were able to produce outstanding comedy formats such as the Grimme Award-winning The Teddy Teclebrhan Show, Heinz Strunk’s Last Exit Schinkenstraße, and currently Sträter’s Problem Zones. Now I’m looking forward to a role with a more international focus at BBC Studios Germany. Together, we aim to develop and adapt innovative comedy and reality formats for the German market and continue the success story of BBC Studios in Germany."