MIPTV: New York-based factual prodco and channel provider Big Media has secured a three-year, multi-series output deal with German broadcaster RTL’s free-to-air news channel NTV.
The first series to be delivered under the deal will be Deadliest Weapons Declassified (5×60’), which looks at the most destructive weapons ever used or developed.
Debuting in spring 2024, the series will feature exclusive interviews with spies, special operators, military contractors and weapons manufacturers, high-level CGI, dramatic re-enactments and archival news footage.
The deal comes after Big Media’s series Destruction Decoded aired to good numbers on NTV last month. Christian Hensgens, channel manager NTV at RTL Germany, said Big Media’s shows “are not only performing extremely well with our viewers, but are excellent value.”
The announcement was made during MipTV today by Big Media’s co-founder and global head of production Martin Kaše and Oliver Schablitzki, exec VP of multichannel at RTL Germany.
“We’re bringing back a production financing model that allows local broadcasters to reap the benefits of having exclusive, high-quality content in their markets while not having to pay premium prices,” explained Kaše.
“Many of the shows we will deliver involve other copro partners, which allows us to keep costs down while offering exclusive rights in local markets.”