MUMBAI: FremantleMedia International (FMI), the global distribution division of FremantleMedia, one of the largest creators, producers and distributors of television entertainment brands in the world, had extended its relationship with indie comedy and comedy drama producer Roughcut Television for a further two years, it announced today.
Under the terms of the deal, FremantleMedia International will continue its co-development relationship with Roughcut TV until at least the end of 2015, allowing FMI to distribute all tape sales from Roughcut’s UK commissions, including Trollied, World’s Craziest Fools, Cuckoo and Anna & Katy. The deal also grants FMI the opportunity to exploit format rights for Roughcut Television’s UK-commissioned title, allowing FremantleMedia’s global network of production offices the chance to produce the shows for local markets.
Bob McCourt, Acting CEO, FremantleMedia International, said, “We couldn’t be happier to renew our relationship with Ash and his team for the next two years. Roughcut TV produces some of the best-known comedies in the UK and they work perfectly for FremantleMedia International’s audiences. We’re looking forward to working together to exploit our back catalogue, as well as work on new titles coming through the pipeline.”
Ash Atalla, founder and Managing Director Roughcut Television added: “FremantleMedia are like the clever and popular mate you never had at school. They speak loads of languages, know the right people all over the world and give you the best advice. I wish I'd met FremantleMedia when I was 15, but this will have to do.”
Established in 2007 by Ash Atalla, Roughcut TV is one of the UK’s fastest growing independent television production companies. Specialising in scripted comedy and entertainment, the production house is best known for producing the multi award winning series’ The Office and The IT Crowd, and enjoyed record-breaking success with the supermarket based sitcom Trollied (Sky 1), which debuted with two million viewers – the highest rating multi-channel comedy launch in British TV history. Other Roughcut titles include the BBC 3 hits Cuckoo – which achieved the channel’s biggest comedy launch when it debuted last year - and World’s Craziest Fools starring Mr. T; sketch show Anna and Katy (Channel 4) and the cult hit mockumentary People Just Do Nothing (BBC 3).
FremantleMedia International will be bringing the second season of Cuckoo to MIPTV this year, starring Hollywood A-lister, Taylor Lautner.
