French group invests in Screentime

French-based production conglomerate Banijay Group has acquired a controlling interest in Australian production company, Screentime (Underbelly, Cloudstreet, Crownies, Bikie Wars).

Banijay will expand into the scripted content market while Screentime gets adaptation rights to Banijay’s formats.

Screentime was formed in 1996 in a partnership between Des Monaghan, Bob Campbell and the Curran family’s Capital Investment Group. The deal includes their New Zealand arm and affiliate company in Ireland.

Bob Campbell and Des Monaghan, said, “We are delighted that Screentime is entering this association with Banijay enabling us to become part of a major international production group. It will give Screentime and its people access to Banijay’s international creativity and innovation. At the same time it will provide a powerful and well-resourced distribution outlet for our programmes and formats through Banijay International.”

François de Brugada, Executive Vice President, Banijay Group, said, “We have been keen to extend our presence in English speaking territories, but we knew that we needed to be patient and wait to make the right choice. Screentime’s expertise, creativity, impressive IP and attitude excite us and we believe the alignment of both our cultureswill ensure a seamless and successful integration.”

Monaghan and Campbell will continue in their roles as Executive Chairman and Managing Director respectively as will all other key executives. Capital Investment Group and Bob Campbell will continue as significant shareholders in Screentime.

Screentime’s hit series Popstars will be launched at MIPCOM in October with a brand new, refreshed version.