Banijay Entertainment is poised to showcase one of the most diverse and powerful lineups at this year’s Mipcom content trade fair in Cannes. Highlighting their offerings is ‘Half Man,’ created by Richard Gadd, renowned for ‘Baby Reindeer.’ Other notable entries include the quirky game show “Let’s Play Ball” and the adventure series “Wild Reckoning With Bear Grylls.”
Slated for U.S. release on HBO, “Half Man” continues Gadd’s legacy, featuring a narrative about two individuals who were like brothers in their youth but now find themselves at odds. The cast also includes Jamie Bell, known for his role in “Rocketman.”
Banijay Entertainment’s scripted lineup includes the highly anticipated Channel 4 drama “Falling,” crafted by acclaimed writer Jack Thorne, who is known for generating buzz around his projects. Also on the list is “A Woman of Substance,” which adapts Barbara Taylor Bradford’s best-selling novel, previously adapted into the most-watched show in Channel 4’s history in 1984.
“Let’s Play Ball” captivates audiences with its family-oriented and especially young adult appeal. This inventive Dutch format challenges celebrity teams to roll a massive ball through various obstacles, from narrow streets to rivers, culminating in a race up one of the Netherlands’ steepest hills. Initially testing the waters on YouTube, where it garnered 1.2 million views, the show debuted on Dutch broadcaster SBS6, reaching No. 1 in its time slot, with an 84% increase in viewership within the coveted 20-34 demographic.
Among the roster of unscripted hits, “Shaolin Heroes,” a premium adventure reality show from Denmark, has impressed audiences by exceeding TV2’s primetime average by 31%, leading to a recommission. Additionally, it has launched successfully in Belgium and the Netherlands, with recent orders from France’s major broadcaster M6, indicating a broader appeal in European markets.
The comedic reality series “Last One Laughing,” devised by Hitoshi Matsumoto, has achieved international acclaim with its production across 11 markets through Banijay’s various labels.
A potential highlight from Banijay’s factual lineup is “Wild Reckoning With Bear Grylls,” which diverges from the typical survival genre as Grylls takes on the role of a relationship counselor, addressing fractured bonds amidst the stunning landscapes of North Wales.
“We are returning to Mipcom with an exceptional array of content that reflects our diverse portfolio and global aspirations,” stated Cathy Payne, CEO of Banijay Rights. “From emotionally charged dramas like ‘Half Man’ and ‘A Woman of Substance,’ to the heartfelt explorations featured in ‘Wild Reckoning With Bear Grylls,’ our offering is tailored to captivate international buyers.”
“This year, we are emphasizing impact with a striking selection of dynamic and innovative formats—ranging from recognizable digital concepts like ‘Let’s Play Ball’ to the compelling ‘Villa of Temptations.’ We aim to deliver broad appeal across various genres while simultaneously enhancing our existing IP with the return of ‘Fear Factor: House of Fear’ and the internationally beloved ‘Shaolin Heroes,’ showcasing our creative team’s enduring talents.”
Here’s a detailed review of the new and notable highlights alongside a look at returning favorites:
Scripted
“Two Years Later”
Originating from Australia, the romantic dramedy “Two Years Later,” produced for Paramount+, follows the evolving relationship between Ryan and Emily as they navigate their unexpected connection in Brisbane two years post-COVID-19, featuring Australian stars Brenton Thwaites and Phoebe Tonkin.
“Falling”
This romantic drama, penned by Jack Thorne, stars Keeley Hawes and Paapa Essiedu, and centers on the unlikely love story between a nun and a priest, exploring complex emotional landscapes.
“Half Man”
The series opens with a shocking incident at Niall’s wedding that catalyzes a violent fallout, tracing the intertwined lives of Ruben and Niall over 40 years. “Half Man” resonates with themes of identity and change, produced by Mam Tor Productions for the BBC and HBO.
“Maigret”
This contemporary adaptation of Georges Simenon’s detective novels introduces a young, debonair Chief Inspector Jules Maigret, portrayed by Benjamin Wainwright, crafted for PBS Masterpiece by Patrick Harbinson.
“These Sacred Vows”
This darkly comedic series unfolds the chaotic aftermath of an Irish wedding in Spain, where excessive drinking culminates in a priest’s death. It is helmed by John Butler and features an engaging cast including Tom Vaughan-Lawlor and Justine Mitchell.
“Wallander”
A modern reboot of the iconic crime saga, this version of “Wallander” spotlights Gustaf Skarsgård as the troubled detective grappling with personal upheavals.
“A Woman of Substance”
The new adaptation of Barbara Taylor Bradford’s acclaimed novel features Brenda Blethyn as the formidable Emma Harte, chronicling her rise from modest beginnings to becoming one of the wealthiest women globally, produced for Channel 4.
Non-English programming from Banijay includes “Disenchanted,” recently previewed at the La Rochelle Festival, alongside returning titles like “Rogue Heroes” and the serialized “Bergerac.” Their catalog of third-party acquisitions spans unique content such as “Signora Volpe” for Acorn TV.
Banijay’s standout titles often find their way to major streaming platforms. Their Kudos label is producing “House of Guinness” for Netflix and the final installment of the “Culpa Mía” trilogy for Prime Video, alongside critically acclaimed series like “The Law According to Lidia Poet” on Netflix.
Formats
“Fear Factor: House of Fear”
One of Banijay’s highly anticipated new unscripted series, this innovative reboot of the original format promises an intense social experiment as participants engage in high-stakes challenges living together in the Fear House, set to air on Fox in 2026.
“Foodish”
This culinary competition, revived by Banijay Italy, invites contestants to showcase their versions of classic regional dishes, now recommissioned by Sky Italia.
“Football Island”
This groundbreaking Dutch format features legendary footballers facing survival challenges on a remote tropical island while competing in a sports-inspired journey.
“Let’s Play Ball”
Touted as an epic gameshow, this adventure series involves teams racing to roll a giant ball across varied terrains. It gained immense popularity on YouTube and is now being further developed for the U.K. audience.
“Shaolin Heroes”
This adventure reality show challenges celebrities to learn from the ancient Shaolin Warrior Monks, creating a unique viewing experience that transcends traditional reality programming.
“Villa of Temptations”
This new German format invites unsuspecting celebrities to a “luxury” getaway fraught with challenges, captivating audiences with its entertaining premise.
Banijay Entertainment’s portfolio boasts enduring favorites like “Big Brother” and “MasterChef,” alongside emerging hits such as “The Summit” and the beach-centric reality series “Good Luck Guys.” Their extensive inventory also includes distinctive formats like “Atypical Critics” and engaging competitions like “Game of Wool.”
Factual
“Eva Longoria: Searching for France”
This CNN Original series features Longoria as she delves into the rich heritage of French cuisine, continuing the culinary exploration theme established in her previous series set in Mexico, Italy, and Spain.
“Lost and Found in the Lakes”
Returning for a second season, this BBC series follows a team of adventurers as they uncover lost items in the U.K.’s mountainous regions, reigniting interest with its unique premise.
“Mission To Space: With Francis Bourgeois”
This thrilling show chronicles social media influencer Bourgeois’s experiences as he endures astronaut training to determine if he possesses “The Right Stuff” to venture into space.
“Sharon & Ozzy Osbourne: Coming Home”
A moving documentary by Inspiration in collaboration with Joks Productions, this show follows the Osbournes through Ozzy’s final years.
“Wild Reckoning With Bear Grylls”
This thought-provoking series sees Grylls mediating personal disputes and broken relationships amidst the rugged landscapes of North Wales, showcasing the transformative power of nature.
