CANNES, France — At this year’s Mipcom, Sony Pictures Television is unveiling a new format, “Trainer Games,” a reality competition that pushes fitness enthusiasts to their limits, brought to life by Nick Rigg’s Brass Monkeys Media.
“Trainer Games” is one of several upcoming projects from SPT’s Mipcom slate, signaling a strong return with numerous first-look reveals and pre-sales for the exciting scripted series like “The Miniature Wife,” “S.W.A.T. Exiles,” “Lord of the Flies,” “The Lady,” and “Titanic Sinks Tonight.”
In a noteworthy acquisition, Sky has secured “The Miniature Wife” for airing in the U.K. and Ireland. This eagerly awaited comedy-drama stars Elizabeth Banks (“The Hunger Games”) and Matthew Macfadyen (“Succession”), and is scheduled to premiere in 2026 on Sky and NOW.
Additionally, first images from the “S.W.A.T.” spin-off “Exiles” were revealed, showcasing Shemar Moore and the new cast as shooting begins in Los Angeles.
The BBC has also shared initial visuals for “Lord of the Flies,” adapted by co-creator of “Adolescence,” Jack Thorne, alongside fresh photos from the dramatized documentary “Titanic Sinks Tonight.”
As a major Hollywood studio lacking a dedicated streaming service, Sony aims to be a prominent player at Mipcom, focused on purchasing and distributing content not only from their own international titles but also from external sources.
This year’s profile is further elevated by Sony Pictures Television chairman Keith Le Goy, who will participate in a C-Suite Conversations segment with Variety co-Editor in Chief Cynthia Littleton on Monday, Oct. 13 at the Palais des Festivals.
Following this discussion, there will be an exclusive preview screening of “The Miniature Wife” that evening, featuring a Q&A session with cast members Matthew Macfadyen, O-T Fagbenle, and Sian Clifford.
SPT’s Offerings in Unscripted and Latin American Productions
Nick Rigg, an experienced unscripted producer under Sony, who has previously worked on hits like “House Hunters International” and “Tiny House Nation,” is debuting “Trainer Games.” This fitness competition, showcased for the first time at Mipcom, features contestants in breathtaking locations, highlighting not just physical prowess but also empathy and motivation.
“Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? Hot Seat” will also be showcased for global buyers, following its recent commissioning by ITV in the U.K. and a revamped version in Australia produced by Curio Pictures, another SPT company.
SPT will introduce “Shark Tank Creators Version,” a fresh take on the business format tailored for digital audiences.
From SPT Latam, the spotlight is on “Carlota,” led by a stellar Spanish-language cast, and the gameshow “Piensa Rápido,” hosted by comedian Adrián Uribe.
“Our current selection of series represents exquisite storytelling. We’re eager to share these narratives with industry friends and clients at Mipcom next week,” noted Mike Wald and Jason Spivak, Co-Presidents of Distribution & Networks at Sony Pictures Television.
A closer look at select titles:
Top Titles from Sony Pictures Television Scripted:
“The Miniature Wife”
Episodes: 10
Produced by Media Res for Peacock (US); Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
Rights Available: Worldwide excluding U.S.
Based on a short story by Miguel Gonzalez, this dramedy explores the power dynamics between spouses Lindy and Les, played by Banks and Macfadyen, who contend with life-altering consequences after an accident miniaturizes Lindy. Developed by Jennifer Ames and Steve Turner from “Boardwalk Empire” and “Goliath,” it is described as “highly anticipated” by Variety.
“S.W.A.T. Exiles”
Episodes: 10
Produced and Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
Rights Available: Worldwide
Following Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, who returns to lead a new SWAT team of inexperienced recruits, the series will delve into the cultural clash between Gen X and Gen Z as Hondo shapes them into a formidable unit. The spin-off stems from Sony’s plans after the original show’s cancellation, with showrunner Jason Ning at the helm.
“Lord Of The Flies”
4 x 60-minute episodes
Produced by Eleven for the BBC (U.K.) and Stan (Australia); Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
Rights Available: Worldwide excluding U.K. & Australia
This series marks the first television adaptation of William Golding’s classic 1954 novel, with direction from Marc Munden and a score co-created by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer. Each episode aligns with a different character: Ralph, Piggy, Simon, and Jack.
“The Lady”
4 x 60”
Produced by Left Bank Pictures for ITV (U.K.) and BritBox International (U.S.); Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
Rights Available: Worldwide excluding UK, US
Starring Mia McKenna-Bruce as Jane Andrews and Natalie Dormer as Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, this semi-fictional drama narrates Andrews’ rise and subsequent fall following a murder conviction, based on true events. Written by Debbie O’Malley and directed by Lee Haven Jones, it represents Left Bank Pictures’ return to royal family narratives post-“The Crown.”
“Titanic Sinks Tonight”
4 x 60”
Produced by Stellify Media for BBC (U.K.); Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
Rights Available: Worldwide excluding U.K.
This four-part docudrama reconstructs the Titanic’s sinking minute by minute through actual survivor testimonies, providing an unprecedented immersive experience. It aims to present the story of the Titanic uniquely, featuring production support from Northern Ireland’s Studio Ulster.
Sony Unscripted Formats
“Trainer Games”
Produced by Brass Monkeys Media, in collaboration with iFit. Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
Launched at Mipcom, this competition sees 10 fitness enthusiasts facing off in stunning environments under the mentorship of three elite trainers. The focus is not merely on strength or speed but also on qualities like empathy and motivation, with a significant cash prize and a chance to partner with a notable sports brand at stake.
Courtesy of Sony Pictures Television
“Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? Hot Seat”
Versions produced by Stellify Media, Curio Pictures. Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
Initially launched in Australia in 2009, this format is being rejuvenated with a commissioned version from ITV, featuring Jeremy Clarkson as host. A new Australian iteration is in development by SPT-backed Curio Pictures, described as “the main show’s cheeky younger sibling” and designed to fit a faster-paced half-hour format.
“Shark Tank Creators Version”
Produced by Floresta. Distributed by Sony Pictures Television. A digital-first reimagining of the beloved business format, tailored for YouTube and the creator economy, this series, produced for Shark Tank Brazil’s YouTube channel, has garnered nominations for the C21 International Format Awards in two categories.
SPT Latam Titles
“Carlota”
A historical drama showcasing the life of Mexico’s first empress, Carlota of Hapsburg, featuring a star-studded cast and a contemporary take on historical themes. Directed by Alejandro Bazzano and Ana Lorena Pérez Ríos, this series aims to resonate with modern audiences.
“Piensa Rápido”
Distributed by Sony Pictures Television
This year, “Piensa Rápido,” a Mexican adaptation of “America Says,” debuted on TelevisaUnivision’s UniMas channel, where teams compete to answer questions based on popular opinion, guided by comedian Adrián Uribe in his entertaining persona, El Vítor.
