ITV

Category: Television

  • Anil Jayaraj joins Jio Home Digital Services as president

    Anil Jayaraj joins Jio Home Digital Services as president

    Mumbai: Jio has appointed Anil Jayaraj as the president of its Jio Home Digital Services division. Jayaraj previously served as CEO of Viacom18 Sports and brings with him a wealth of experience, spanning over 30 years in marketing, sales, and business development.

    His career trajectory includes significant stints at industry-leading organisations like Star Sports, Castrol, Pidilite, and BP, where he honed his advertising sales and revenue generation skills.

    Jayaraj will report to managing director Pankaj Pawar and is expected to drive the growth of Jio Home Digital Services, a key segment in Reliance Jio’s overall business strategy. His expertise in the sports and entertainment domains, particularly his success in driving revenue for major sporting events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) during his time at Star Sports, will likely be invaluable as Jio continues to strengthen its presence in digital services and home entertainment.

  • Hockey India announces Power Finance Corp (PFC) as title sponsor

    Hockey India announces Power Finance Corp (PFC) as title sponsor

    Mumbai: Hockey India on Wednesday announced Power Finance Corp (PFC), a state-owned company that provides financial assistance to India’s power sector, as the Title Sponsor for the upcoming PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024, scheduled to take place on 23 and 24 October 2024 at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.

    This series marks the return of men’s international hockey to the national capital after a decade, made possible due to PFC’s generous support and commitment. The last international match played at the venue was the Hero Hockey World League Final – Men’s Round 4, back in January 2014.

    Under the administrative control of the ministry of power, PFC plays a crucial role in driving growth in the energy sector. Through strategic partnerships and investments, PFC is dedicated to contributing to India’s development through various avenues, with its association with Hockey India for PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024 being the most recent initiative.

    Additionally, entry to the PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024 will be free for spectators, as part of Hockey India’s effort to make it accessible to all. A free digital ticketing system will be introduced to allow fans to secure their tickets easily. Fans will simply need to visit the official ticketing link and register their details to receive a virtual ticket, which will guarantee them hassle-free access to the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

    Welcoming PFC onboard as the title sponsor, Hockey India president Dr Dilip Tirkey said, “We are delighted to welcome Power Finance Corporation (PFC) as the Title Sponsor for the highly anticipated PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024. This series, being played in New Delhi after a decade, is a significant milestone, not just for the city but for Hockey India as we promote the sport across the country. With the support of PFC, we look forward to creating a thrilling atmosphere at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.”

    Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh added, “We are thrilled to have one of the leading state-owned companies, Power Finance Corporation (PFC), as the title sponsor for the PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024. Their support will strengthen Hockey India’s vision to grow hockey’s presence in India. With PFC, we look forward to providing a top-notch experience for all hockey fans.”

    Parminder Chopra, CMD, PFC, said, “We at PFC are delighted to be associated with Hockey India for the India vs. Germany Bilateral Hockey Series. This marks a significant milestone as international hockey returns to Delhi after a decade, and PFC is proud to play a vital role in this partnership with Hockey India. We believe that, just like our company, Hockey India is committed to contributing to India’s rise as a global player. We keenly look forward to the series, which will be an unforgettable experience for all fans.”

    India and Germany have a rich hockey history and share a fierce rivalry. In the 19 matches since 2013, India has won 8, while the reigning World Champions and Paris 2024 silver medalists have won 7. The two heavyweights in world hockey last faced each other at the Paris 2024 Olympics semi-final, where the current world champions emerged victorious, winning 3-2.

    The matches will be telecasted on DD Sports and streamed live on FanCode from 1500 hrs onwards on 23rd and 24th October 2024. Entry to the stadium for spectators will begin from 1300 hrs onwards.

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Hockey India (@hockeyindia)

     

  • News18 Bangla to showcase over 5000 Durga pandals across West Bengal

    News18 Bangla to showcase over 5000 Durga pandals across West Bengal

    Mumbai: This year, News18 Bangla will showcase extensive Durga Puja coverage, featuring over 5000 Durga Pandals across Bengal, ensuring representation from every district, including remote areas.

    The channel will continue to highlight pandals in Kolkata’s housing societies, reflecting the community spirit and festive energy. Celebrations organised by Bengal’s royal families will also be featured. Additionally, the channel’s digital platform will live-stream rituals from a 300-year-old Durga Puja held by one of Kolkata’s royal households, offering viewers a close look at this historic tradition.

    The coverage includes live updates, special segments, and detailed reports on News18 Bangla and its digital platform, capturing the essence of Bengal’s Durga Puja, from idol immersion processions to cultural performances.

    Tune into News18 Bangla and its digital platforms from 9 October for exclusive coverage on Durga Puja 2024.
     

  • Bigg Boss 18 faces Peta India’s ire on account of donkey

    Bigg Boss 18 faces Peta India’s ire on account of donkey

    MUMBAI: A donkey has got the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) India frothing at the mouth. The ass called Max has been featuring in episodes of  Colors’ Bigg Boss18, along with 18 other human contestants. The show, produced by Endemol Shine, added a new twist to the eighteenth season by introducing Max  on it.

    Peta India, which has more than two million members and supporters, has written to host Salman Khan imploring him to get  Max, who has been brought into the BB house by advocate Gunaratna Sadavarte  (a contestant in BB18),  off the show.

    “We are being inundated with complaints by members of the public who are deeply distressed over the keeping of a donkey in the Bigg Boss house.,” Peta India advocacy associate Shaurya Agrawal has appealed to Salman in a letter addressed to the hero. “As one of India’s most influential stars and the host of Bigg Boss, you have the power to set a compassionate example. We respectfully ask that you use this influence to urge the show’s producers to avoid using animals as props for entertainment. This would not only prevent stress to the animal and upset to viewers but also set a powerful precedent. We also urge you to encourage advocate Gunaratna Sadavarte, who has reportedly brought Max into the house, to surrender the donkey to Peta  India to rehome in a sanctuary with other rescued donkeys.”
     
    Agrawal further states in the letter that the use of animals on a show set is no laughing matter as donkeys are naturally nervous and they would find the lights, sounds and clamour confusing and frightening. “That a show set is no place for an animal is obvious to viewers who are saddened to see the donkey kept in a small, confined space standing in waste,” he adds in the letter. “Moreover, donkeys are social animals, whose wellbeing is best ensured by permitting them to be part of a herd. Just as we humans live in family groups, so do donkeys. It is reported advocate Sadavarte keeps the donkey for research regarding milk. But donkeys produce milk strictly for their foals.”

    He ends the letter to Salman stating that society has evolved, and the caring public finds the use of animals on shows sad, not funny. “Please take the steps suggested in this letter to show that Bigg Boss recognises animals deserve our compassion and respect.”

    Will Salman, Viacom18 and the show’s producers Endemol Shine India heed Peta India’s plea? Will they evict Max and make him the first one to exit BB18?

    It’s over to them.  
     

  • Advertisers line up for Bigg Boss as new season sees record partnerships

    Advertisers line up for Bigg Boss as new season sees record partnerships

    Mumbai: Bigg Boss 18, a reality show, returns stronger than ever with a record-breaking gamut of sponsors, showcasing its unrivalled impact in both entertainment and advertising. Leading brands like Vaseline, Bella Vita, and Parle 20-20 Cookies join a dynamic lineup of partners, reflecting the show’s broad appeal to brands and millions of dedicated viewers. With innovative brand integrations and the game-changing “Time Ka Tandav” theme, this season promises to redefine reality television and create powerful new connections between brands and audiences.

    Launched on 6 October at 9 pm on Colors, it is available 24*7 on JioCinema for premium subscribers. The show promises viewers the most thrilling season yet with its new theme and a spin on the iconic line “Bigg Boss Chaahte Hain”. This year, Bigg Boss takes on an omniscient persona with “Bigg Boss Jaante Hain” keeping both contestants and audiences on their toes with futuristic predictions and intense gameplay.

    The season’s sponsors include industry stalwarts like Vaseline, Harpic, Ching’s Secret Schezwan Chutney, Parle 20-20 Cookies; new entrants like Bella Vita, Go Cheese, MyTrident, Blue Heaven; and a mix of partners across categories like Galaxy Chocolate, First Games, Vimal Elaichi, Macho Sporto, Housing.com, Manforce, Siyaram’s, Philips and more, highlighting the show’s cross-industry appeal. Brands are gearing up for deeper engagement through the show’s interactive features, making Bigg Boss a prime avenue for reaching diverse consumer segments.

    Speaking about the importance of brand partnerships, Viacom18 head–network sales Mahesh Shetty added, “We’ve witnessed immense growth in the scope of brand integrations over the years, and Bigg Boss continues to set the gold standard for collaboration in entertainment. This season we’ve successfully cracked new categories and brought on board several first-time brand partners across diverse sectors. Their inclusion speaks to the show’s unmatched reach and ability to create unique, high-impact engagement opportunities. We’re excited to work with this incredible mix of brands to deliver memorable experiences that will resonate deeply with our audience and partners alike.”

    HUL head of the skin care business Pratik Ved said, “Over the last decade, Big Boss has carved a unique place for itself in the Indian Television ecosystem. It is a winning format that appeals to diverse audiences and keeps them hooked over a 3-month window. It truly galvanizes prime time TV and digital viewership, grabbing unprecedented levels of eyeballs. This makes Big Boss the perfect brand integration opportunity for Vaseline. This integration gives us a platform to showcase our efficacious product portfolio and, also as a conversation starter in our mission to give Indian women the license to Never Hide their healthy, beautiful skin. We are super excited to kick-start our partnership with Big Boss as their official Skin Care partners for Season 18 and look forward to making this a multi-year collaboration.”

    “We at Bellavita, are thrilled to partner with Bigg Boss, a show that captures the attention оf viewers across India. Our mission has always been to bring premium fragrance experiences while still being affordable to all, and this collaboration with Bigg Boss allows us to connect with our audience more closely and showcase the power of scent in creating lasting memories” said Bellavita founder Aakash Anand.

    This season’s marketing initiatives are designed to immerse audiences deeper into the Bigg Boss experience across all platforms. One of the standout activations is the “Cryptic Note” where both past and present contestants from popular Colors shows, as well as media persons, receive mysterious messages from Bigg Boss, sparking curiosity and social media chatter. Additionally, time-based challenges on Instagram invite fans to engage in tasks within specific timeframes, driving interaction. Creative digital content such as behind-the-scenes videos, augmented reality filters, and global spectacles like CGI projections of the Bigg Boss eye on iconic clock towers will further ignite excitement, setting the stage for an unforgettable season.

    With the support of new and long-term partners and countless fans eagerly waiting, Bigg Boss 18 is set to be a monumental season, pushing the limits of reality TV and brand engagement like never before.

  • TV9 Bangla Sharadiya rolls out special program line-ups

    TV9 Bangla Sharadiya rolls out special program line-ups

    Mumbai: Consequent to the newly launched AI tech TV9 Bangla Pujor Gaan, the tagline of TV9 Bangla Sharadiya affirms ‘Shoke Drohe Utsab’. This year the news channel speaks of mourning, rebellion, and celebration which means celebrating victory over evils in society, showcasing empathy, and raising voices for protesting the horrific rape and murder of the young doctor of the RG Kar hospital in Kolkata that has shaken the globe.

    According to TV9 Bangla managing editor & business head Amritanshu Bhattacharya, “The mood in the state may be sombre, but that doesn’t seem to have dampened the festive spirit of Durga Puja. This vibrant festival is a celebration of good over evil, and its significance goes beyond its religious roots, embracing social and cultural aspects. Durga Puja is a time for family reunions, community gatherings, and public celebrations. So, keeping in tune with the present mood and emotion of people, puja festivities too will embrace the current mood and passion.”

    TV9 Bangla this year highlights a special programme under its puja banner, ‘TV9 Bangla Sharadiya’ taking the contemporary issues of the society.

    ‘Mayer Pujo Meyer Hatey’ is a special Durga Puja program showcasing selected pujas organized exclusively by women across the city. It will air on TV9 Bangla from 4 to 12 October at 3:30 pm.

    ‘TV9 Bangla Pujo Somman’ features the sera barowari and sera abason competition, recognizing 237 puja pandals throughout Bengal. This includes nine main categories: ‘sera theme’ (best theme), ‘sera protima’ (best idol), ‘sera poribesh’ (best environment), ‘sera mohila porichalito pujo’ (best women-organized puja), ‘sera barowari’ (best puja committee), ‘sera alonkar’ (best ornaments), ‘sera suraksha’ (best safety), ‘manusher pashe’ (beside common people), and ‘jelar sera puja’ (district pujas). This series will air from 10 to 12 October at 1 pm on TV9 Bangla.

    Additionally, TV9 Bangla’s ‘manusher pashe’ initiative supports underprivileged children through partnerships with NGOs to provide essential items. “For TV9 Bangla, puja means another occasion to stand beside and touch upon the lives of the people of Bengal in every possible spirit. The cross-section of people includes the privileged and underprivileged. To touch upon the lives of people TV9 Bangla has tied up with an NGO to put an additional colour and joy. To bring all and one in the warmth of the festive spirit, TV9 Bangla is plying from urban to rural corners of Bengal with the NGO. At the same time, TV9 Bangla remains committed to the present mood of people,” Bhattacharya added.

    The sponsors of TV9 Bangla include several partners, co-powered by Tata Ace, with Sriniketan as the wardrobe partner, special partners Sobisco Biscuits & Cakes, Cycle Pure Agarbathi, and Sunrise Pure, and Anjali Jewellers serving as the jewellery partner.

  • WION launches ‘Business Masters’ conversations with global industry leaders

    WION launches ‘Business Masters’ conversations with global industry leaders

    Mumbai: WION, a global news channel, is set to launch its new show, “Business Masters,” starting 12 October, Saturday, at 4:30 PM IST and 11:00 AM GMT. This weekend’s special will feature global business leaders engaging in informal, in-depth conversations about their professional journeys, challenges, motivations, and success stories. With WION’s reach in over 190 countries, the show aims to reflect India’s rising industrial prowess to a global audience.

    The show will cover key topics including the future of work, evolving leadership roles, the impact of technology on business transformation, the growing importance of diversity and inclusion, and balancing corporate profitability with social responsibility. Designed to provoke thought, inspire innovation, and offer actionable insights,

    WION Business Masters will feature a stellar lineup of prominent business leaders, including Tata Motors CMO Shubhranshu Singh; Aditya Birla Sunlife AMC MD & CEO of A. Balasubramanian; Maruti Suzuki India member of the executive board Shashank Srivastava; SBI Mutual Fund deputy managing director & Jt. CEO D.P. Singh with more notable guests to follow. Each episode will explore both the business insights and personal journeys of these industry experts, providing a comprehensive view of what it takes to succeed in today’s fast-evolving global economy.

    WION business head Pankaj Rai emphasized the importance of the show, stating: “Business Masters will bring viewers closer to the industry leaders shaping the future of business. The show not only highlights their professional expertise but also sheds light on the personal stories that define their leadership. It’s a chance for viewers to learn, be inspired, and connect with the values and ideas driving change in the business world.”  

    WION managing editor Rabin Sharma added “This is an engagement with the most respected names in the business landscape who share their unique skill sets and success strategies. Their thoughts on how one should channelise the change and challenges to be the leader.”

  • Warner Bros Discovery unveils fresh content slate for South Asia

    Warner Bros Discovery unveils fresh content slate for South Asia

    Mumbai: Warner Bros Discovery has revealed its content slate for India, expanding programming on discovery+ and its linear channels, including Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and TLC. By year-end, it aims to deliver over 3,000 hours of fresh content, with a focus on Indian originals and global titles. DTamil will also feature top global content like Hollywood films and series dubbed in Tamil.

    A Warner Bros Discovery study, conducted by Ormax Media, identified key trends in non-fiction, including national pride, cultural preservation, and vicarious experiences, with strong interest in sub-genres like history, survival, wildlife, and food. Credibility emerged as a crucial factor due to declining trust in digital media, presenting television as a reliable alternative.

    Key releases include Secrets of the Buddha Relics on discovery+ and Discovery Channel, hosted by Manoj Bajpayee and created by Neeraj Pandey. Another show, Reality Ranis of the Jungle, premiered on 23 September, hosted by Varun Sood, and features 12 reality stars in an off-grid jungle adventure.

    Upcoming shows include Mystery Hunter with Rannvijay Singha, Star vs Food Survival season two with Kartik Aaryan, Shikhar Dhawan, and others, and the sequel Legends of Shiva, set for early 2025. Cult will also return with its second season following My Daughter Joined A Cult.

    Expressing his excitement, Warner Bros Discovery, South Asia, head of factual & lifestyle cluster – Sai Abishek remarked, “As the category leaders in the non-fiction content genre, our focus on enhancing viewer engagement and expanding our content offering is paramount. The newly announced India originals and our strategic programming across both linear and streaming platforms are a testament to our commitment to creating cross-platform experiences. The recent revamp of DTamil underscores our focus on bringing the best of global content in regional languages to Tamil audiences. We will continue to bolster our content library and deliver strong and compelling stories that reflect the interests of the Indian viewer and create value across India and South Asia.”

    Warner Bros Discovery is rolling out a new content strategy with curated offerings for the festive season across its platforms. discovery+ will feature Chris Brown: A History of Violence (31 Oct) and Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking (Dec ’25), as well as BBC shows like Dynasties S2 (18 Nov) and Frozen Planet II (Jan ’25, TBC).

    Discovery Channel will introduce five new series, including Bear Grylls’ Jesus: Refugee and Expedition Unknown S9 with Josh Gates, plus new seasons of Naked & Afraid. Local originals like Star vs. Food Survival will also be featured.

    Animal Planet will offer 100-plus hours of new programming, including Deadly Strike, Snake Dynasty, and the year-end special 50 Days: 50 Tales. TLC will air over 100 hours of fresh content, including Halloween, Diwali, and Christmas specials, along with 100 Day Dream Home and Forbidden Love.

    Discovery Science will focus on medical science with shows like Dr Pimple Popper and Dinosaur with Stephen Fry. Discovery Turbo will release two new shows monthly, including Custom Carolina and Roadkill Garage. Investigation Discovery will spotlight relationship crimes with Mother, May I Murder? and Married to Evil.

    This content strategy aims to expand viewership, offering global content in India and original stories that reflect historical and cultural narratives.

  • Sony Pictures Networks celebrates 29th anniversary

    Sony Pictures Networks celebrates 29th anniversary

    MUMBAI: It’s celebration time at Sony Pictures Networks. The company is celebrating its twenty-ninth anniversary. The leading entertainment and sports network which turned up a healthy profit in the year ended March 2024 is pulling out all the stops to make it a memorable occasion for its employees.

    The company has come out with a hip hop song featuring its executives and creative talent (marching in its offices in north Mumbai’s Malad suburb) to celebrate the occasion titled “29 Years of going beyond the ordinary. Tell stories beyond the ordinary.”

    “We’re Sony. We steal the show. Sony, Where Legends Grow. We are Sony. We Go beyond. Extraordinary stories. We are always on,” go the lyrics.

    The video has been posted on its linkedin page with the message “From Script to Screen, 29 Years Strong! 
    Happy Anniversary to #SonyPicturesNetworksIndia! Cheers to sparking imaginations, setting trends, and bringing thrills to screens everywhere!” 

    It should prove extremely motivational at a time when leading broadcast networks have been issuing pink slips to their executives to cut costs courtesy the tough advertising climate. 

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/sony-pictures-networks-india/posts/

    In fact, for the first time, Sony has also given us a look see at its new managing director & CEO former Disney and Star executive Gaurav Banerjee stating “that the energy in the network is palpable ever since has joined, in another post.”

    It continues; “His interactive floor walks and insightful coffee chats are already igniting a wave of creativity and innovation across SPN. …. we’re thrilled to be on this journey together as we gear up to tell stories beyond the ordinary and shape an exciting future ahead!” 
     

  • Mipcom Cannes 2024 to have a Spanish flavour

    Mipcom Cannes 2024 to have a Spanish flavour

    MUMBAI: Bienvenido! Bienvenida!  Meaning welcome in Spanish. 

    Trade visitors to Mipcom between 21 and 24 October 2024 will hear this expression all the time at the world’s largest international co-production and entertainment content market in in Cannes which is in its fortieth edition. With Spain designated as the country of honour, that’s something that’s bound to happen.

    Today, Mipcom Cannes announced the comprehensive programme that’s been put in place to celebrate the land of the flamenco. The prominent series of events at the annual flagship entertainment content market spans keynotes, premieres, panels and networking events to both celebrate Spain’s impact on television globally and promote further international collaboration. The programme will have a particular focus on the country’s creativity and talent from behind and in front of the camera, echoing the themes of Audiovisual from Spain’s recently launched campaign Spain, Where Talent Ignites.

    The country of honour recognition comes with Spain’s content sector having experienced significant growth in recent years as a major international production hub, and as a proven provider of quality content to global audiences that consistently ranks amongst the most viewed worldwide.  

    Spain currently sits second only to the UK in scripted TV commissions in Europe from global streaming platforms1. Meanwhile, Spain’s entertainment sector, which includes OTT video services such as Netflix, Amazon, HBO, and Disney+, has been experiencing remarkable growth. According to the 2024 Spain AVS Hub report2, the sector surged by an impressive 408 per cent between 2018 and 2022, with a projected growth of 31.6 per cent from 2023 to 2027.

    The growth since 2021 has been driven by a major three-year public investment initiative of 1.6 billion euros for the film and television sector, led by the ministry for digital transformation & civil service. Icex Spain Trade & Investment has played an active role in the internationalization of the Spanish audiovisual industry under the brand Audiovisual From Spain.
     

    An increased presence is expected in Cannes in October  from the Spanish creative sector with a rise of over 50 per cent in Spanish companies accredited year on year to date. Mipcom 2023 was attended by 11,000 content executives  and government officials from 100 countries.

    The country Of honour 2024 programme highlights include: 

    Media Mastermind Keynote – Spain- Where Talent Ignites: A fireside conversation with multiple award-winning Spanish director and showrunner J.A Bayona, (A Monster Calls, Society of the Snow) and creative producer Diego Betancor (Elite, Todas las veces que nos enamoramos, Respira).

    In addition to exploring trends and generational shifts in film making with the pair, the session will feature insights from the cornerstone of the new promotional campaign for the country’s creative sector Spain, Where Talent Ignites – which includes an innovative fashion-led short film, The Cause of the Accident That Set the Fire. An unprecedented commission from a public institution, the ambitious high-end feature celebrates the creative process boasting cameos and contributions from multiple high-profile Spanish creatives including Bayona. 
    The keynote session will be staged 16:00 – 16:30 on Tuesday 22 October.   
     

    World premier screening: Ena. La Reina Victoria Eugenia. Jury-selected from multiple submissions, RTVE’s highly anticipated royal period drama chronicling the era-defining life of Victoria Eugenia of Battenberg (qeen of Spain by marriage to Alfonso XIII and grand daughter to Great Britain’s Queen Victoria) will premiere on the market’s first night on Monday 21 October from 18.00. Staged in the world-famous Grand Auditorium, main actors Kimberley Tell and Joan Amargós and executive producer Luis Hernández will be present in Cannes. The ambitious all-female-directed piece (6 x 60’) is produced by RTVE in collaboration with Ena La Serie AIE, La Cometa TV and Zona App. It is set to air on RTVE’s channel LA1 in Spain with global distribution rights handled by the largest public audiovisual group in Spain, RTVE.

    Producers Hub Panel: Igniting Global Hits- The Ultimate Audiovisual Hub: A special session on Tuesday 22 October at 09:45 – 10:30 in the gathering point at the market for producers and commissioners will focus on the breadth of location and co-production opportunities within the Spanish sector, told through the experience of filmmakers and recent productions including Marc Dujardin, producer, Le Collectif 64 (Zorro), Nina Hernández, content Director, Portocabo (Weiss & Morales) and Susanne Frank, director drama, ZDF Studios (Stories to Stay Awake). 

     In addition, two of MIP’s signature events will have a Spanish flavour this year with a themed opening night party (Monday 21 October from 19.00) encouraging further networking, and a dedicated separate Spanish edition of the Fresh TV content showcase curated and hosted by Virginia Mouseler, CEO of The WIT International Services (Tuesday October 22 at 14.30).

     “Talent exists in every country, but not all value it equally. Our goal in positioning the Spanish audiovisual sector on the international stage is to elevate talent to the highest level, both through the activities we carry out at major festivals and markets worldwide and with our new campaign, ‘Spain, Where Talent Ignites.’ said Icex Spain Trade &  Investment CEO Elisa Carbonell.

     “Everybody  loves Spain and we’re planning a gran fiesta in celebration of Spanish content” said Mipcom Cannes and Mip London director Lucy Smith. “A cultural powerhouse, and a major European audiovisual hub, the Spanish creative sector has never been so prolific, or their output enjoyed by so many, globally. It’s been an honour in itself for us to curate this special programme in celebration of one of the world’s most formidable production countries.”

    The country of honour forms part of a week-long Mipcom Cannes conference programme which helps define the TV industry year through keynotes from leading global players and thought leaders, screenings of highly anticipated series, future facing summits and exclusive insight presentations. Past countries of honour have included Japan, Turkey, Mexico, Argentina, South Korea and most recently China in 2023.