EXCLUSIVE: Banijay Entertainment‘s journey actuality format Shaolin Heroes has kung fu-kicked its means on to networks in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Banijay Benelux has struck a cope with broadcaster VTM for a model of the Danish present in Belgium, and RTL Nederlands has handed SimpelZodiak, one other Banijay manufacturing home, a greenlight within the Netherlands.
The offers mark the primary worldwide variations for the format, which was initially created by Banijay’s Danish label Metronome for native broadcaster TV2 final yr.
The format sees celebrities embark on a transformational journey to grasp the traditional martial artwork of the Shaolin warrior monks. Under the steering of two Shaolin masters, they face intense trials that check their psychological and bodily boundaries.
In Denmark, the place Season 1 surpassed its prime-time slot common by 31%, a second season is about to launch later this month.
Banijay Belgium is behind native variations of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Hunted Fear Factor and journey format Starstruck, whereas SimpelZodiak has a slate together with Good Luck Guys, Hunted, Survivor, SAS: Who Dares Wins, Temptation Island and fact-ent format Banged Up.
“Metronome’s Shaolin Heroesis an adventure reality format unlike any other, taking the audience on an immersive and transformational journey,” mentioned Isabelle Dams, Managing Director at Banijay Belgium. “Bringing this unique format to Belgium with VTM is an exciting step, and we know viewers will be enticed by its intensity.”
Justine Huffmeijer, Managing Director at SimpelZodiak, added: “Shaolin Heroes is a bold and unique format which respectfully highlights the Shaolin tradition. Enjoying a solid performance in Denmark, we are eager to launch the Dutch version and watch these celebrities embark on this challenging, yet rewarding experience.”
Shaolin Heroes was a Deadline Hot One for MIPCOM in October, with Banijay’s Chief Creative Officer, Development, James Townley saying Townley it had “all the makings of a traveling success” because of “responsible story-making at its heart, relatable celebrities and authentic representation of the Shaolin community, paired with stunning visual effects and the production know-how of our teams.” Looks like we picked properly.
“This premium adventure reality series is a testament to the creativity and ambition of the Metronome team, blending stunning scenery and human endurance,” mentioned Tina Christensen, Managing Director at Metronome right this moment “Shaolin Heroes has all the key elements to captivate global audiences and it’s exciting to see this original format expanding its international footprint, while returning here in Denmark for another thrilling season.”
The deal comes forward of Banijay’s London TV Screenings occasion later this month.