New horizons in unscripted TV: Diffusion Media’s ambitious launch
A new dawn for Irish TV production
In a significant move for the Irish television industry, renowned showrunner Shane Byrne and Emmy-winning producer Jamie D’Alton have joined forces to launch Diffusion Media. This new production company aims to attract international unscripted productions to Ireland, leveraging potential Irish tax incentives for the unscripted sector.
The masterminds behind Diffusion Media
Jamie D’Alton has been a pivotal figure in the Irish TV landscape for nearly two decades. His impressive portfolio includes the Netflix documentary feature The Deepest Breath and the highest-grossing Irish documentary of all time, Conor McGregor: Notorious. D’Alton’s extensive experience includes executive producing and directing some of Ireland’s highest-rated TV shows, such as DIY SOS: The Big Build Ireland and Special Forces: Ultimate Hell Week. His work on IFTA-winning films like I Am Immigrant and Man on a Mission further cements his reputation.
Shane Byrne brings a wealth of industry experience from the U.S., the U.K., and Ireland. Known for producing popular formats like Big Brother, The X Factor, and Britain’s Got Talent, Byrne is leaving his role as head of entertainment at Bigger Stage. His recent work includes managing a large slate of U.S. unscripted productions filmed in Ireland for Fox Entertainment, such as The Floor, Don’t Forget The Lyrics, Next Level Chef, Beat Shazam, and Name That Tune.
The vision for Diffusion Media
D’Alton and Byrne are optimistic about the future of unscripted content in Ireland. D’Alton notes, “The proposed fiscal incentives from the Irish Government could present amazing opportunities, with the growth potential for unscripted content produced in Ireland immense. This, coupled with our individual track records and existing relationships with international broadcasters and streamers, positions Diffusion Media to be a market leader for unscripted content.”
Byrne echoes this sentiment, reflecting on his experience: “In 2021, I was asked to be the showrunner on the first unscripted U.S. network show to be made in Ireland (Name That Tune for Fox). This entailed building and cultivating a domestic team of over 300 talented industry professionals. Three years later and many successful productions later, it is obvious that unscripted production in Ireland is at world-class level.”
A diverse slate of productions
Diffusion Media is set to produce a broad range of content, including entertainment formats, studio shows, and documentaries. Their first title, To Hell & Back, is a new series for RTE that will see A-list celebrities take on extreme outdoor adventures in some of the most inhospitable and hostile environments on the planet.
Byrne elaborates on their ambition: “The ambition that we have for Diffusion Media is not only to develop exciting original content but also to double down on the production service model that has seen TV show hosts like Rob Lowe, Niecy Nash, Jamie Foxx, Jane Krakowski, Randy Jackson, and Gordon Ramsay collaborating closely with domestic production teams on a variety of prime-time U.S. shows. We are very excited to launch another option for international clients to consider.”
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
For cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts, the launch of Diffusion Media is a thrilling development. The potential for high-quality, unscripted content produced in Ireland is immense, and the involvement of industry veterans like D’Alton and Byrne promises a bright future. Their combined expertise and vision could lead to groundbreaking productions that captivate audiences worldwide.
As a fan of unscripted TV, the prospect of seeing more international productions filmed in Ireland is exciting. The unique landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Ireland provide a stunning backdrop for storytelling. Moreover, the collaboration between Irish and international talent can lead to innovative and diverse content that resonates with a global audience.
In the realm of music, the integration of unscripted content with musical elements could also be a fascinating avenue to explore. Imagine a series that delves into the lives of musicians, capturing their creative processes and personal journeys. Such content could offer a deeper connection to the music we love and provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents.
Final thoughts
The launch of Diffusion Media marks a significant milestone for the Irish TV industry. With the combined expertise of Shane Byrne and Jamie D’Alton, the company is well-positioned to become a leader in unscripted content production. The potential for growth and innovation in this sector is immense, and it will be exciting to see what the future holds for Diffusion Media and the Irish TV landscape.
For more information and to stay updated on their latest projects, keep an eye on their official announcements and follow their journey as they bring new and exciting content to screens worldwide.