The recent collaboration between Fox Entertainment and Australian pay-TV giant Foxtel marks a new era of scripted series co-production. This groundbreaking pact will see the two companies joining forces to co-develop series targeting both the U.S. and international markets. Fox Entertainment Global will oversee the international sales of the output, encompassing a range of original content for Foxtel and its subscription streaming service, Binge.
One of the most significant aspects of this partnership is the co-commissioning of shows, which will be produced in Australia by Fox’s in-house studio arm, Fox Entertainment Studios. This collaboration will involve talent from above- and below-the-line from both countries, bringing together a diverse range of creative perspectives. The agreement mirrors a similar structure that Fox has with Canada’s Bell and its streamer Crave, demonstrating a commitment to fostering international partnerships.
Creative Synergy and Shared Ownership
While Fox and Foxtel have not previously worked on a joint project, the connection between the two companies through the Murdoch family adds a level of shared ownership and collaboration. The Murdoch family controls Fox and has a majority share in Foxtel through News Corp Australia, creating a foundation for future creative synergies. Fox’s existing shows such as Animal Control and Krapopolis have already found success on Binge, setting the stage for further collaborations.
Fox has been actively engaged in international co-productions, working with production companies from various regions to create high-end content with global appeal. By partnering with the UK’s Hat Trick Productions, Canada’s CBC, and other leading studios, Fox has been able to diversify its content offerings and expand its international footprint. This approach allows Fox to produce premium content at competitive price points, demonstrating a commitment to innovative business models.
The CEO of Fox Entertainment emphasized the importance of expanding the company’s international footprint through strategic partnerships and innovative business models. With a formalized structure built on three key business operations – Fox Network, Fox Entertainment Studios, and Fox Entertainment Global – Fox is poised for growth and collaboration with top companies and creative talents worldwide. The partnership with Foxtel represents a strategic move towards achieving these goals and increasing global reach.
For Foxtel, the co-production deal with Fox Entertainment comes at a crucial time when Australian producers, networks, and streamers are seeking to attract overseas partners and develop content with both local and international appeal. Foxtel’s previous success with shows like Colin From Accounts and Mix Tape highlights the potential for international collaboration and the sharing of Australian stories on a global scale. The Executive Director of Foxtel Group emphasized the importance of strategic content partnerships in delivering global perspectives to local productions.
The co-production deal between Fox Entertainment and Foxtel represents a strategic move for both companies to expand their reach, diversify their content offerings, and foster creative collaborations on an international scale. By combining their expertise and resources, Fox and Foxtel are well-positioned to create compelling scripted series that resonate with audiences worldwide. This partnership underscores the value of innovative business models and strategic growth initiatives in the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.
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