Format

At MIPCOM in Cannes, ITV Studios unveiled several key format moves, including the acquisition of international production rights to "Solitary", the bold and controversial reality game show that was FOX Reality Channel’s number one series. Created by Lincoln Hiatt and Andrew Golder, "Solitary" places contestants in isolation pods where they face physical and mental challenges with no contact or alliances, guided only by Val, a computer entity. “'Solitary' is an audacious format that still feels incredibly fresh today,” said Mike Beale, MD Creative Network, ITV Studios. “With its arcing competition, it can work for both linear and streaming services.”

The company also announced a string of format successes. "A Party To Die For" is heading to Spain under the local title "Una fiesta de muerte", produced by ITV Studios Iberia for Atresmedia. "Come Dine With Me" reached its 50th territory with "Come Dine With Me Africa" (French Speaking), now airing on CANAL+MAGIC. Meanwhile, quiz phenomenon "The Chase is expanding" to New Zealand, and "My Mum Your Dad"has been renewed for a second season in Brazil by Globoplay.

Overall deal with Nordic creators
ITV Studios also announced an overall deal with renowned Nordic creators Karsten Bartholin and Kenneth Kristensen and their new company, Banjo Formats, which focuses on creating “broad, loud, and commercially strong reality formats with global appeal.” Both previously led Viaplay Group’s non-scripted content division and were behind major international brands such as "Love Island", "Survivor", "MasterChef" and "Paradise Hotel."  Beale, said: “The new deal will see Karsten and Kenneth using their amazing experience commissioning and developing shows from around the world, to boost our international format slate and create diverse new concepts that will resonate globally.” Bartholin and Kristensen added: “We are thrilled to be working with ITV Studios’ production and distribution teams to bring new formats and IP to life...” The partnership strengthens ITV Studios’ development pipeline in the Nordic region and beyond.

Thrillers Coldwater and The Guest set for global rollout
On the scripted front, ITV Studios announced that premium thrillers "Coldwater" and "The Guest" will each air in more than 40 countries, following SHOWTIME’s acquisition of U.S. rights earlier this month. Starring Andrew Lincoln and Ewan Bremner, Coldwater follows a man whose life unravels after befriending a dangerously deceptive neighbor, while The Guest, starring Eve Myles and Gabrielle Creevy, explores friendship, class and power through a gripping, twist-filled narrative.

“On top of the recently announced SHOWTIME acquisition of these gripping thrillers, we’re delighted to announce swathes of new international sales for The Guest and Coldwater,” said Tom Clark, EVP Global Sales & Commercial Strategy, Global Partnerships ITV Studios. Both series have been acquired across Europe, North America, and panregional networks in the Middle East and APAC. The strong sales underline ITV Studios’ growing strength in high-end scripted exports.