People

Banijay Nordic has revealed plans to restructure part of its Swedish production portfolio, forming two powerhouse labels: Jarowskij/Yellow Bird for scripted content and Meter/Jarowskij for non-scripted content. This reorganization combines the strengths of several existing entities to create brands that will leverage their creative heritage and deliver impactful programming across multiple genres.

Elin Kvist, previously VP/Creative Director at Yellow Bird, has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer of Jarowskij/Yellow Bird. This new scripted label will draw on Jarowskij’s expertise in popular comedy and drama and Yellow Bird’s reputation for epic suspense and international co-productions. Their lineup will feature high-profile series such as A Nearly Normal Family, Wallander, Riding in Darkness, The Playlist, and the upcoming drama A Life’s Worth, as well as the feature film Off Track 2. Under Kvist’s leadership, Jarowskij/Yellow Bird will aim to produce bold and ambitious TV and film content that appeals to both Nordic and international audiences.

Meanwhile, Madelene Hansson, previously CEO at Meter, will take the reins at Meter/Jarowskij. This label will specialize in non-scripted formats, combining Jarowskij's strengths with Meter’s track record of producing iconic global shows. Their slate includes major international franchises like MasterChef, SAS: Who Dares Wins, Good Luck Guys, LEGO Masters, and Fort Boyard, alongside popular Swedish shows such as Wild Kids and Luxury Trap. With Hansson leading the charge, supported by Magnus Gustafsson as Chief Creative Officer, the team will focus on acquiring, adapting, and producing fresh international formats for the Swedish market, while also developing original local content.

The restructure highlights Banijay Nordic’s commitment to fostering creative talent and remaining competitive in an evolving entertainment landscape, shaped by the growing influence of streaming platforms. Jacob Houlind, CEO of Banijay Nordic, explained that the consolidation is a strategic response to the shifting market, ensuring the company is well-positioned to meet new demands. By unifying these companies, Banijay Nordic aims to strengthen its creative output and secure its future growth.

As part of this transition, current Yellow Bird CEO Jakob Feeney will step into a consulting role as COO/Head of Business Affairs for Jarowskij/Yellow Bird. His contribution to Yellow Bird’s success over the past few years has been significant, and his continued involvement will be crucial to the new label’s future. Additionally, Malin Lancha will take on the role of Head of Production, while Johannes Jensen, interim CEO at Jarowskij, will return to his broader role within Banijay Nordic as Group Head of Scripted.

Despite these changes, Banijay Nordic’s other Swedish labels, Filmlance and Mastiff Sweden, will continue to operate independently. The reorganization reflects Banijay’s ongoing efforts to adapt to new market realities while maintaining its leadership in both scripted and non-scripted entertainment production.