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Tag: GRB Media Ranch

  • GRB Media Ranch licenses multiple seasons of ‘Untold Stories of the E.R.’ to +SBT Brazil

    GRB Media Ranch licenses multiple seasons of ‘Untold Stories of the E.R.’ to +SBT Brazil

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron announced that the company has licensed seven seasons of Untold Stories of the E.R. to Brazil’s streaming platform +SBT. The series was also recently licensed as a format to Khelgejo for production in Africa, marking GRB Media’s continued territorial and format expansion for this popular program. GRB Media Ranch acquisition & sales executive Liz Levenson will attend MIPCancun to engage with Latin American market representatives.

    Untold Stories of the E.R. is a medical docuseries re-enacting real emergency room cases, showcasing doctors’ expertise and decision-making under intense pressure. GRB Studios’ CEO, Gary R Benz created the iconic series, and he exec-produced 13 seasons within 15 years. The series has been broadcast in 214 territories and has received strong format interest.

    Ferron stated: “We’re thrilled to announce the continued success of Untold Stories of the E.R., as it finds a new home with SBT. It’s rare to come across an IP that continues to resonate with audiences across the globe year after year, and we’re incredibly grateful for its enduring appeal. This series has proven time and again that great storytelling transcends borders, and we look forward to seeing Untold Stories connecting with Brazilian viewers once more — and we anticipate it will inspire local productions in the near future.”

    SBT’s content acquisition and sales manager, Goyo Pessoa Garcia stated, “+SBT, SBT’s streaming platform, aims to bring Brazilian audiences the best content options across a wide variety of genres. Adding Untold Stories of the ER to our catalog seeks to meet the demand of viewers who crave quality docuseries productions and are drawn to the drama and emotional stories each episode brings.”

  • GRB Media Ranch seals deal with AMC Networks UK for reality series

    GRB Media Ranch seals deal with AMC Networks UK for reality series

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron announced at Mipcom that they licensed all seven seasons of the reality series Braxton Family Values to AMC Networks International UK (AMCNI UK) for AMC Reality, their reality-themed streaming collection available on ITVX.  GRB Media Ranch is exhibiting at Mipcom 2024 at Stand Number R7.A16.

    Braxton Family Values follows the rambunctious, tight-knit Braxton sisters – Grammy-winning artist Toni Braxton, Traci, Towanda, Trina and Tamar, and their headstrong mother, providing an inside look at their lives and family drama. They battle it out for the spotlight as sibling rivalry surfaces over dating, a DUI and many other family conflicts.  Produced originally for WE tv in the U.S., the series has previously aired on MNET – Africa; ETV – Africa; AETN – UK, Ireland, Malta; Antena – Romania; E! Entertainment – Australia/NZ; Wananchi Programming – Africa; Edan – Africa; IMC/Digicel – Caribbean; Econet – Africa (S1-7, Ep: 149 x ’60 + 2 x ’90)

    Ferron stated: “GRB Media Ranch is pleased to partner with AMCNI UK for Braxton Family Values, one of our most popular, entertaining reality series! Their viewers are sure to share the enthusiasm this series has earned from audiences around the world!”

    AMCNI UK VP, content group Sam Rowden said, “We are thrilled to bring Braxton Family Values to our AMC Reality audience. This series’ compelling storytelling and dynamic personalities are bound to resonate with our viewers and enhance our reality programming slate.”

    For more information can visit http://www.amcnetworks.com/amc-networks-international 

  • GRB Media Ranch acquires ‘Relative Justice’ from Wrigley Media Group at Mipcom

    GRB Media Ranch acquires ‘Relative Justice’ from Wrigley Media Group at Mipcom

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron has announced the acquisition of the US rights from Kentucky producers Wrigley Media Group for two seasons of the courtroom reality series Relative Justice at Mipcom 2024 where they are exhibiting at stand number R7.A16. Previous license deals from GRB Media Ranch sales & acquisition executive, Liz Levenson, with Pluto UK, Viu South Africa. Wrigley Media Group CEO Joe Livecchi closed the deal at Mipcom with Ferron and Levenson.

    Relative Justice is a daily arbitration-based reality court show featuring Judge Rhonda Wills. It explores family disputes that escalate, often involving money, with emotional conflicts at the forefront. Season one (150 x 30) and season two (150 x 30) are also available as a format.

    Ferron stated, “GRB Media Ranch is thrilled to announce the acquisition of the U.S. rights for finished program and format for two seasons of the captivating courtroom reality series, Relative Justice., showcasing real-life courtroom family drama like never before! After successfully distributing the series internationally in the U.K. and South Africa, we are excited to now bring this engaging show to American audiences.”  

    “Relative Justice hits on a universal truth, you can’t choose your family, but you can choose where to take them to court. This format is a guilty pleasure and the overwhelming verdict around the world is ’sold!’,” said Wrigley Media Group chiarwoman Misdee Wrigley Miller.

  • GRB Media Ranch secures European deals ahead of Mipcom

    GRB Media Ranch secures European deals ahead of Mipcom

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch CEO Gary R Benz announced several European deals secured ahead of Mipcom 2024, where the company is exhibiting at Stand R7.A16.

    GRB Media Ranch closed deals with France Television and Telefonica for God & Country, a political documentary by Dan Partland and Rob Reiner. YES Israel licensed Magnolia’s Hope, a documentary about a family coping with their daughter’s battle with Rett Syndrome, a rare disorder, chronicling eight years of their journey.

    Heritage Films acquired the holiday feature Carol of the Bells and its behind-the-scenes documentary for several MENA countries. Produced by Joey Travolta and starring RJ Mitte (from Breaking Bad), the film follows a man discovering his biological mother is developmentally disabled. The film was created by Inclusion Films in partnership with Futures Explored and Options for All, with 70 per cent of the crew members having developmental disabilities.

    GRB Media Ranch also secured paranormal content deals with JOJ Slovakia and Pluto Nordics. JOJ Slovakia acquired Death Walker (59 x 60′), where Nick Groff investigates the origins of America’s most notorious hauntings, and Aliens on the Moon (1 x 120′), a documentary special that examines alternate theories regarding the 1969 moon landing. Pluto Nordics picked up Death Walker as well as Untold Stories of the E.R., On the Case, and Full Force Nature for Scandinavia.

    Benz stated: “GRB Media Ranch is going into this Mipcom with our highest activity level in our history with several great deals to announce, a major slate of acquisitions and a FAST digital strategy. These deals signify the diverse slate we have, and our partners trust us to bring them only the most compelling and premium shows that are sure to engage their viewers. Sophie, Liz, and Will are ready to meet with partners from all around the world at the market.”

  • GRB Media Ranch announces new slate for Mipcom

    GRB Media Ranch announces new slate for Mipcom

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch has announced the acquisition and presentation of an extraordinary slate of newly acquired diverse programming, bringing its content slate to over 5,200 catalog hours, which will be available at Mipcom. This includes over 150 new hours of factual programming spanning paranormal, true crime, food/travel, and documentaries—acquired within a year after the landmark merger of GRB and Media Ranch. This impressive collection features gripping true crime, tantalizing food and travel, spine-tingling paranormal stories, and thought-provoking documentaries. GRB Media Ranch is setting new benchmarks for quality, quantity, and variety in content. Their Mipcom 2024 stand number is R7.A16.

    Cutlers Court: This courtroom reality show features Emmy-nominated judges Dana and Keith Cutler, who address relationship issues like cheating, paternity, and finances. They consider whether couples should continue or end their relationships. Duration: 150 episodes of 30 minutes each.

    Playground: A docu-reality series set in a premier dance studio led by top choreographers, with auditions from artists like Megan Thee Stallion. The sessions attract ambitious dancers and create plenty of drama. Duration: 9 episodes of 60 minutes each.

    Carol of the Bells: Starring RJ Mitte from Breaking Bad, this film follows a young man on a journey to find his biological mother, who is developmentally disabled. Produced by Inclusion Films, 70 per cent of the crew members have developmental disabilities. The feature won the Audience Favorite Feature award at the 2019 San Diego International Film Festival. Formats: One feature film of 100 minutes and one documentary of 25 minutes (behind-the-scenes).

    Carnival Catwalk: A thrilling fashion reality show where designers compete on a dream island, blending fashion, Caribbean Carnival, and competition for a cash prize and a showcase at Milan Fashion Week. Duration: 9 episodes of 60 minutes each.

    Owl Rescue: This South African reality wildlife and conservation show features Brendan and Danelle Murray, who run the Owl Rescue Centre, focusing on the well-being of South Africa’s owl population. They also rescue other wildlife, including porcupines and serval cats. Duration: 10 episodes of 30 minutes each.

    It’s Pawsable: Explore the captivating South African animal world with Heather and her team at Paws-itive Paws-ibilities as they rehabilitate furry patients and share heartwarming stories. Duration: Eight episodes of 30 minutes each.

    Prairie 911: Animal Rescue: This docu-series follows the recovery journeys of injured and abandoned animals at the Canadian Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre, led by Dr. Fanny and her team. Duration: 26 episodes of 22 minutes each.

    Haunted Hollywood: Inside the LAPD Museum: A paranormal docu-series uncovering infamous Los Angeles true crimes, including the Charles Manson murders and Marilyn Monroe’s death. Duration: Eight episodes of 60 minutes each.

    Canadian Case Files: This series probes Canada’s most famous criminal cases from the past 30 years, featuring documentary-style reenactments of the events. Formats: 49 episodes of 30 minutes each in English and 52 episodes of 30 minutes each in French.

    Blue: The Life and Legacy of George Rodrigue: A portrait of Cajun artist George Rodrigue, creator of the Blue Dog, featuring interviews with friends and celebrities like Emeril Lagasse and Drew Brees. Duration: One episode of 60 minutes.

    Lebanese Burger Mafia: A James Beard-nominated documentary about Burger Baron, a rogue Canadian fast-food chain with mysterious origins and a cult following. Duration: One film of 120 minutes.

    No Limits: This film follows Leah Goldstein, a professional Canadian-Israeli cyclist and former world champion kickboxer, who became the first woman to win the overall solo division of the Race Across America in 2021. Duration: One film of 93 minutes.

    Ferron stated: “GRB Media Ranch is pleased to announce an unprecedented slate of acquisitions showcasing the breadth of compelling programming that we offer.  We are one of the largest U.S. independent distributors with a catalog that clearly highlights our dedication to bring only the finest and most captivating content to the world!”

  • GRB Media Ranch appoints Will Marks as principal advisor for digital (FAST)

    GRB Media Ranch appoints Will Marks as principal advisor for digital (FAST)

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch CEO Gary R Benz has announced the company’s continued growth with a new digital strategy, with soon-to-launch FAST (free ad-supported TV) channels and AVOD (ad-supported video on demand) distribution platforms. Industry veteran Will Marks was retained to develop and implement the forward-facing strategy. He will attend MIPCOM next month to expand the Company’s relationship with content and distribution partners.

    Two FAST channels are planned for launch in Q4 ‘24 across the US and many English-speaking territories (US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand). Each channel will launch with over 400 hours of programming, adding additional content regularly. Additional territories will be launched throughout 2025, along with more channels.

    A paranormal-themed FAST channel, titled ‘The Unseen’ (wt) will include shows from the GRB Media Ranch ‘Dark Zone’ programming collection, including Paranormal Files and Paranormal Quest.

    Also, a travel, food, and culture-themed FAST channel, titled ‘WNDR’ (Wander) will carry programming including Top Travel; South Africa with Hayden Quinn; World of Wonder; and many more globe-spanning series.

    Several more FAST channels are in development for distribution worldwide for next year.

    Marks comes to GRB Media Ranch with sterling credentials as a seasoned industry executive. He was previously SVP, business development & digital at Ovation Television where he founded and led the digital portfolio, including the TV-Everywhere app OvationNOW and the FAST channels Mystery Alley and JOURNY. Marks led the channels to distribution on 300mm plus devices across the US and Canada on connected TVs and video platforms including Amazon Fire, Roku, Samsung TVPlus, Vizio WatchFree+, Plex; and the Apple iOS and Google Android mobile platforms. JOURNY, a perennial ‘Top 3’ travel network on Roku also won the ‘Best AVOD Service’ award from Cynopsis in 2021. Marks had previously served in executive roles leading business development, strategy, and digital teams at ComcastNBCU, Intel Corp, and The Walt Disney Company.

    Benz stated, “GRB Media Ranch is truly excited to launch our digital strategy with two FAST channels in 4Q and we are pleased that Will Marks will share his expertise and distribution savvy to help with this next step in our company’s evolution. We feel fortunate to have many hours of premium programming in paranormal and travel for our launch.”

    Marks added, “GRB Media Ranch built a tremendous content library and continuously acquires compelling programming   across diverse genres. We can’t wait to thrill and chill viewers with the ghosts and haunts on The Unseen; and then take consumers on amazing adventures around the world on WNDR. These new FAST channels are a cornerstone of GRB Media Ranch’s new distribution approach, bringing captivating programming to worldwide audiences. I look forward to working with Gary and the entire GRB Media team in helping them increase the company’s reach around the world.”

  • GRB Media Ranch announces format and factual deals with African exhibitors

    GRB Media Ranch announces format and factual deals with African exhibitors

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch CEO Gary R Benz has announced several format and factual program deals with African exhibitors, brokered by GRB Media Ranch sales executive Liz Levenson. The first international format sale ever of GRB Studios’ long-running series, Untold Stories of the E.R., has been licensed to Khelgejo for production in Africa. The 150-plus-episode docuseries has been licensed into 200-plus countries over its 20-year life.

    Untold Stories of E.R., licensed to Khelgejo for production in Africa, showcases intense true stories demonstrating the dramatic nature of medicine practiced under pressure, where every moment can be a turning point. See how a doctor’s personal blend of expertise, coolness under fire, and decision-making ability are challenged by unpredictable circumstances and unexpected conditions.

    Blind Dating was licensed to production company Aby Media for production in Africa: Swipe right on the person of your dreams in this studio-based dating game show! Blind Dating creates perfect matches between three single men and three single women. In each episode, without seeing each other, the participants must find their love match by simply answering questions while digging for clues – and some dirt – on social media. Watch these singles try to impress, get picked, and go home with a mate. A hit show in French Canada for many years.

    Wild Zambezi was licensed to Ster Kinekor for theatrical release in South Africa and sold to The Africa Channel for worldwide distribution, excluding Africa. The series consists of eight 60-minute episodes, exploring the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia and highlighting the challenges posed by the encroachment of civilization. This development reflects the broader existential crisis facing vulnerable ecosystems worldwide.

    Relative Justice, a court program, was licensed to VIU for Africa for seasons one and two, each consisting of 150 episodes of 30 minutes: Family drama is common, often surfacing as arguments around the dinner table. Usually, these disagreements are harmless, sometimes even humorous. However, when family conflicts escalate, especially over money, they can become destructive. *Relative Justice* is a daily arbitration-based reality court show where judge Rhonda Wills handles these family disputes.

    Benz stated: “GRB Media Ranch is pleased to announce our African formats and factual program deals with new clients including The Africa Channel, Ster Kinekor, VIU, and Aby Media.  We continue to acquire program of broad but targeted interest, and we are especially excited about the first international format sale to Khelgejo Productions of our GRB Studios’ created show, Untold Stories of the E.R. and to see a locally produced version in Africa. As we say, at GRB Media Ranch, we’ve got stories!”

  • GRB Media Ranch acquires ‘Carol of the Bells’ and its BTS documentary

    GRB Media Ranch acquires ‘Carol of the Bells’ and its BTS documentary

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron is delighted to announce the acquisition of Carol of the Bells (1 x 100), an innovative, touching Christmas movie directed by Joey Travolta as well as a documentary on the making of this unique film, Carol of the Bells: Behind the Scenes (1 x 25). This film not only tells a heartwarming holiday story but also represents a significant step forward by demonstrating inclusivity by featuring a cast and crew with a range of disabilities.

    Carol of the Bells stars RJ Mitte (known for his role in the highly acclaimed Breaking Bad) portraying a young man with a troubled past who embarks on a journey to find his biological mother, only to discover that she is developmentally disabled. The film was produced by Inclusion Films in partnership with Futures Explored, Inc and Options for All, with 70 per cent of the crew members having developmental disabilities. The feature won the Audience Favorite Feature award at the San Diego International Film Festival in 2019.

    In addition to the film, a behind-the-scenes documentary is also available, offering an in-depth look at the remarkable journey of the cast and crew. This emotionally uplifting documentary showcases how Joey Travolta’s Inclusion Films’ workshops started in 2007 in Bakersfield California to teach the art of filmmaking to the developmentally challenged. The film highlights how this workshop is transforming lives and reshaping perceptions of individuals with disabilities. The workshops provide training and empower participants to contribute meaningfully to the film industry, illustrating the profound impact of inclusivity.

    Ferron stated, “GRB Media Ranch is honored to bring Carol of the Bells and its behind-the-scenes documentary to international audiences. It is not often that we come across a special film like this—entertainment with a purpose. This film and its making-of feature offer a powerful portrayal of individuals on the autism spectrum and reflect a message of inclusivity that will resonate globally. We are thankful to Joey Travolta for his dedication to this project and for sharing this inspiring story with us.”

    Travolta commented, “We are thrilled to partner with GRB Media Ranch to present Carol of the Bells and the accompanying documentary to viewers around the world. Our film and the behind-the-scenes look at our film camp in Bakersfield highlight a profound commitment to inclusivity. By employing 70% of our cast and crew from the autism community, we aim to foster a sense of belonging and challenge perceptions of disability. These efforts are rooted in the values of kindness and equality that my family instilled in me and continue to guide my work. We hope that this film and its documentary will inspire others and change the way we view and engage with individuals with disabilities.”

  • GRB Media Ranch announces additional post MIP-TV sales of programs and format

    GRB Media Ranch announces additional post MIP-TV sales of programs and format

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch’s CEO Gary R. Benz announced license deals for several factual programs and a celebrity-based formats. The program buyers reach audiences in the U.S., U.K. Germany, Australia and Israel.

    Details follow:

    On the Case was licensed to Seven Network in Australia. On the Case explores intriguing, real-life murder mysteries. Through in-depth interviews, this series features those closest to the case and examines the forensic evidence that helped unravel the mystery. First-person accounts from witnesses and suspects reveal the raw emotions left behind from personal tragedies and the motives of the perpetrators. 124 hours

    Magnolia’s Hope was licensed to ‘YES’ for Israel. This documentary follows a family’s actions as they initially attempt to cure their daughter from a rare, debilitating disorder. The final diagnosis is heartbreaking – Rett Syndrome, after which the family struggles to cope with the child’s special needs. Spanning eight years of her life, Magnolia’s Hope is a raw, first-hand account of the emotional struggles and experiences as the family endures the ongoing demands of their child’s condition. 1 x 60

    Relative Justice season one & two were licensed to OTT Studio for the U.S.A. judge Rhonda Wills is a dynamic, captivating, and compassionate tour de force delivering justice in this arbitration-based reality court show which centers on resolving intra-family legal disputes. Wills dispenses legal advice with a nod toward rebuilding relationships to get beyond current family conflicts. Real people, real cases, real families in crisis. 303 episodes

    Death Walker S2 renewal to Discovery for UK. The paranormal investigative series is hosted by series creator, Nick Groff, who theorizes and investigates the origin of some of the most notorious hauntings in America, redefining our understanding of the paranormal. 15 episodes

    Format Sale: 12 Star Hotel optioned in the U.S.A. by River Rock Films. 12 Star Hotel is a reality competition where twelve celebrities take over a real hotel, working all staff positions from management to maid service to serve the public with no outside help for two weeks. Judged by hospitality, entertainment and hotelier industry pros, will the celebrities be named as the perfect hosts, or be eliminated when unable to cope with demanding clientele?

    GRB Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron stated: ” GRB Media Ranch is pleased to announce the sales of its content to long-time clients and new buyers. We are expanding our Format presence and are excited that 12 Star Hotel has been optioned in the U.S. These agreements are representative of the reception we have gotten to the Company’s continued acquisition of highly watchable content. Still in the initial year of its merger, GRB Media Ranch is delighted to see the results of its efforts. At GRB Media Ranch, we’ve got stories!”

  • GRB Media Ranch acquires three compelling political documentaries for international distribution

    GRB Media Ranch acquires three compelling political documentaries for international distribution

    Mumbai: Coinciding with the guilty verdict of the hush money/porn star payoff trial, GRB Media Ranch has announced its acquisition of #Untruth, a political documentary about the psychology of “TrumpISM” and the authoritarian strain that it seeded in the American political landscape.

    This documentary by director Dan Partland, multiple Emmy Award winning and executive producer, and president of Doc Shop Productions, accompanies two other Partland productions available through GRB Media Ranch on the topic: #Unfit: The Psychology of Donald Trump and God + Country, a look into the growth of white, Christian nationalism in the U.S.

    Released theatrically, God + Country (co-produced by Rob Reiner), opened to rave reviews in the New York Times, Christianity Today and the Hollywood Reporter and received an 88 per cent score on Rotten Tomatoes.

    Benz stated: “We acquired these programs just at the time that Donald J. Trump was found guilty by a jury of his peers. GRB Media Ranch is proud to include them in its portfolio of timely documentaries on compelling subjects produced by an acclaimed filmmaker – Dan Partland.  In a historic U.S. election year where the subjects of the films reflect the deep divisions within the nation, these riveting political documentaries are essential viewing!  At GRB Media Ranch, we get stories – riveting, topical, compelling.”

    Partland added: “Democracies around the world are under threat like we haven’t seen in 100 years.  Hopefully, yesterday’s verdict in New York is the beginning of an American recommitment to the fundamental values of liberal democracy that have been so eroded by the global wave of intolerance and authoritarianism, which is drowning our body politic.”