ITV

Tag: Sophie Ferron

  • 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 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 announces deals for two political docs

    GRB Media Ranch announces deals for two political docs

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron has announced license deals with Mediawan for France, Andorra, Dom Tom, Monaco, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland for #UNTRUTH: The Psychology of Trumpism, an important, timely political documentary as well as #UNFIT: The Psychology of Donald Trump which was licensed to Doc Alliance Films in the Czech Republic.

    #UNTRUTH: The Psychology of Trumpism is a documentary about Trumpism and the authoritarian strain that it seeded in the American political landscape, while #UNFIT: The Psychology of Donald Trump provides a searing look at the growth of white Christian nationalism in the U.S. Both docs are produced and directed by multiple Emmy award winning and Doc Shop Productions’ executive producer and president Dan Partland.

    Ferron stated: “GRB Media Ranch is thrilled to announce these deals with Mediawan and Doc Alliance Films for timely docs #UNTRUTH: The Psychology of Trumpism and #UNFIT: The Psychology of Donald Trump, respectively, especially in this highly charged political time, during which is arguably one of the most important U.S. elections in history.  At GRB Media Ranch, we’ve got stories – the most important 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 to sell ‘Blind Dating’ format to ABY Media

    GRB Media Ranch to sell ‘Blind Dating’ format to ABY Media

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch president, Sophie Ferron announced the format sale of “Blind Dating” to Africa’s ABY Media and the acquisition of four-time Emmy-winning docu-series Medical Stories. Produced by Inventi Media Group and airing on PBS, this production has 39 episodes (39×30’) currently available.

    Blind Dating: In this classic studio-based dating game show, three single men and three single women must make the perfect match to win a date. In each episode, without seeing each other, the participants must find their love by answering personal 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!

    Medical Stories: This acclaimed docu-series captures drama through the lens of cinematic storytelling.  It captures the experiences of medical and emergency personnel and their heroic actions and extraordinary measures taken while battling life-threatening conditions of critically ill or injured patients. Follow their emotional journeys as individuals as they navigate their way through illnesses and injuries, often unknown, from the moment of receiving an accurate diagnosis to seeking out support. In-depth commentary is included from renowned medical experts and researchers, providing valuable insight into baffling conditions and the cutting-edge techniques used in developing novel treatments. These intertwined narratives offer viewers a message of hope, empowerment, and awareness of diseases that are often overlooked both by the public and the medical community.

    Ferron stated: “The format sale of Blind Dating is especially meaningful to me. I grew up on the set of this series, as my father created and produced it in Canada. It remained a huge hit and was remade twice for new generations. He passed away last year and would be proud to see it travel. I thank GRB Media Ranch’s Liz Levenson for closing this deal with Bernard Azria of ABY Media for many African territories. We are also excited to have acquired Emmy-winning docu-series, Medical Stories which clearly underlines our commitment to delivering diverse and compelling narratives. We are here at MIP to discuss all our fantastic properties. At GRB Media Ranch, we’ve got stories.”

    Kimberley Azria of ABY Media stated “ABY Media is very happy to have acquired this special Format from our partners at GRB Media Ranch. We know that it will be a popular show in Africa with many audiences!”

    Inventi Media Group’s executive producer and director Brian Chris Capozzi stated: “Inventi Media Group is thrilled that GRB Media Ranch is representing our award-winning series Medical Stories for distribution. Their expertise in the global marketplace is well-known and respected. With them, we are confident that viewers in other parts of the world will soon be experiencing the heartfelt and dramatic stories from our series.”

    Inventi Media Group’s executive producer and director Bob Buruchian added “GRB Media Ranch’s global representation of our Medical Stories series is a source of great excitement for our team. With their esteemed expertise, we’re confident our compelling narratives will captivate audiences worldwide.”

  • GRB Media Ranch acquires four new documentaries

    GRB Media Ranch acquires four new documentaries

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch CEO, Gary R Benz announced the acquisition of four hot topical new documentaries covering a range of headline grabbing events.

    The content includes the murder investigation of Tupak Shakur: Tupac: 187 (working title), an art theft in Ottawa in Stealing Churchill, and sensational political topics: God & Country and Unfit. The company will present all four docs at MIPDoc and MIPTV next week where GRB Media Ranch president, Sophie Ferron and GRB sales & acquisitions’ executive Liz Levenson will be in attendance.

    Tupac: 187 (working title) after 30 years, the case of murdered Rap superstar Tupac Shakur may finally get resolved when an accused Las Vegas man stands trial. Discover the criminal negligence and its impact on the night of the shooting and see the development of the false narrative that was devised to cover it up; and track the “big lie” all the way from its inception five minutes after the shooting until this moment – the current case in Nevada. Was the right guy caught? (5×60’)

    Stealing Churchill is an investigative documentary taking audiences to the heart of the unlikely heist that shocked the international arts community: the theft of the famous Winston Churchill portrait by Yousuf Karsh. This masterwork painting was stolen from the Reading Lounge in Ottawa’s Château Laurier and replaced by a fake which was only discovered eight months later. Has the portrait of the Roaring Lion, a work of art that launched Yousuf Karsh’s international career, disappeared forever?  (1 x 60’)  

    Unfit: The Psychology of Donald Trump:  This documentary explores if Donald Trump is psychologically fit to hold the office of President of the United States. This is an eye-opening analysis of Trump by leading U.S. mental health professionals and political observers and those who had intimate personal contact with him and his behavior. (1 x 90’)

    God & Country:  From award-winning director Dan Partland (Intervention) and mega-producer Rob Reiner, this vital documentary reveals the dangerous implications of Christian Nationalism which distorts the U.S.  Constitution and Christianity itself.  What happens when a faith built on love, sacrifice, and forgiveness grows political tentacles, conflating power, money, and belief into hyper-nationalism?  (1 X 90’)

    Gary R Benz stated: “GRB Media Ranch is thrilled to debut four exciting new documentaries to add to its expanding non-fiction portfolio. The new content is both topical and unnerving and complements our library of over 5,000 hours of premium finished programs and formats.  We are delighted to introduce them to the market at this time when the subject matter continues to attract headlines in the media. As we say at GRB Media Ranch – we’ve got stories!”

  • GRB Media Ranch secures Relative Justice series deal with CBS AMC Networks in Malta, MEA

    GRB Media Ranch secures Relative Justice series deal with CBS AMC Networks in Malta, MEA

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch CEO Gary R Benz announced sales with CBS AMC Networks for its reality legal series Relative Justice (150 x ‘30) for the territories of  Malta, the Middle East and Africa. The deal was brokered by Liz Levenson, GRB Media Ranch Distribution & Acquisition Executive.

    The Company also announced yet another deal for its flagship series Untold Stories of the E.R. for several seasons in Italy by Discovery. The deal was closed by GRB Media Ranch president, Sophie Ferron. Other recently announced deals for this long-running popular series include acquisition by FilmRise of 120 episodes, for the United States, Canada, the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, and all other English-language territories, (Jan 2024) and Discovery for Spain (Fall 2023).

    Relative Justice: Real people, real cases, real families in crisis. 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 inter-family legal disputes. Wills dispenses legal advice with a nod toward rebuilding relationships to get beyond current family conflicts.  (photo below)

    Untold Stories of the E.R. is a dramatic medical docu-series re-enacting intense real-life stories of the emergency room, demonstrating the true nature of medicine practiced under pressure, where every moment can be a turning point. Audiences witness how a doctor’s personal blend of expertise, coolness under fire, and decision-making ability are challenged by unpredictable circumstances – and how character makes the ultimate difference. GRB Studios’ 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.

    Gary R Benz stated: “GRB Media Ranch is pleased to announce that CBS AMC Networks has acquired our brilliant family legal series, Relative Justice, in which family court issues are heard and decided. We are excited that yet another territory – Italy – has taken our proprietary signature series, Untold Stories of the E.R., a fast-paced series about unique stories of emergency room doctors and nurses, saving lives and highlighting the drama of medical crises.”