Fremantle’s bold move: Merging Thames and Talkback into TalkbackThames
A new era for unscripted TV
In a significant shake-up, Fremantle is merging its two prominent U.K. unscripted labels, Thames and Talkback, into a single entity named TalkbackThames. This strategic move is part of Fremantle’s broader global restructuring efforts aimed at consolidating its market position and streamlining operations.
Leadership changes and departures
The merger brings about notable leadership changes. Jonno Richards, who has been the managing director of Talkback for the past five years and with the company for nine years in total, is stepping down. The newly formed TalkbackThames will be helmed by Charlie Irwin, the current managing director of Thames.
Iconic shows and new opportunities
Thames has a rich history of producing popular shows like the talent competition Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream, where aspiring performers vie for roles in the ABBA-inspired musical. On the other hand, Talkback is known for its diverse offerings, including the Netflix dating game show Too Hot To Handle and the beloved quiz show QI.
This isn’t the first time these two powerhouses have joined forces. They were previously merged in 2003 before being separated again in 2012. The re-merger aims to leverage their combined strengths to create a more formidable presence in the unscripted television landscape.
The broader context of Fremantle’s restructuring
This merger is part of a larger trend within Fremantle, which recently laid off all staff at its scripted label Euston Films, known for shows like Nightsleeper, and its documentary label Undeniable. Although these labels haven’t been officially closed, they are currently operating without staff, with key figures like Euston’s managing director Kate Harwood among those exiting.
Last week, it was revealed that Fremantle is consolidating its North American scripted business under the leadership of Christian Vesper, the CEO of global drama and film. Vesper will oversee all drama and film operations for Fremantle across the U.S. and Europe, signaling a more unified approach to their scripted content.
Denial of asset sales and North American exit
Despite these significant changes, Fremantle’s parent company, RTL Group, has denied any plans to withdraw from North America or sell off parts of Fremantle. This reassurance comes amidst industry speculation and underscores Fremantle’s commitment to maintaining its global footprint.
A unified vision for the future
Amelia Brown, CEO of Fremantle U.K., expressed optimism about the merger, highlighting the long-standing partnership between Thames and Talkback. “Thames and Talkback have enjoyed a strong partnership for over twenty years and when combined, they have been instrumental in launching some of the U.K.’s most iconic shows including Pop Idol, The X Factor, Take Me Out, Buzzcocks, QI, Hole in the Wall and many more,” she said.
Brown emphasized that the merger is timely, given the expanding global unscripted landscape. “Now, as the global unscripted landscape continues to expand, there is no better time to reunite their expertise into a single super-label to harness their combined strength and creativity once again and to form a unified structure and identity recognized internationally across the industry.”
Strengthening Fremantle’s portfolio
With Charlie Irwin at the helm and a talented team behind him, this merger is poised to create a stronger, more cohesive unit for buyers. It will also solidify Fremantle U.K.’s industry-leading portfolio of world-class labels, reinforcing their position as a top player in both entertainment and comedy entertainment formats.
In the ever-evolving world of television, this merger represents a bold step towards a more integrated and powerful future for Fremantle’s unscripted content. For fans of shows like Too Hot To Handle and Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream, this could mean even more exciting and innovative programming on the horizon.