People

Banijay today confirms Lars Blomgren will proceed as Head of Scripted, EMEA. Focusing on the non-English side of the scaled-up scripted offering, he will work in partnership with the group’s hugely talented producers across Europe, Middle East and Asia, to grow the pipeline of top-quality titles in the space.

With a burgeoning portfolio of production entities and premium brands, Blomgren will be tasked with driving collaboration across the non-English scripted footprint, identifying new prospects and partnerships to optimise investment. The role will also give him responsibility for forging co-production opportunities between English speaking markets and EMEA-based labels.

At Endemol Shine Group, he spent the last two years spearheading the business’ non-English scripted production engine where in 2019 the company was responsible for 69 productions, growing from 50 the previous year. Notable highlights include Bron, Penoza, Caliphate, Beforeigners and Queens along with highly anticipated new series, Vinterviken 2021, The Idhun Chronicles and Bombay Begums.

In his new role, Blomgren will report to Banijay’s Chief Executive Officer, Marco Bassetti.

Marco Bassetti comments: “Lars is a great addition to our evolving global team. Having been at the forefront of the non-English language scripted operations at ESG, he is well-versed in building partnerships and maximising on investments in this arena and now, with an even broader portfolio of businesses, there is now doubt he can further develop our offering of high-quality content with cross-border appeal.”

Lars Blomgren comments:“It is an honour to lead this unrivalled network of scripted producers whose work I so admire. With exceptional talent and a sharp, co-ordinated strategy which encourages independence and collaboration, we are in a brilliant position to offer bold and original programming to all broadcasters and platforms. I am very much looking forward to working with old friends and getting to know new ones across the business.”

Banijay’s non-English language scripted entities now span the Nordics, Germany, Benelux, France, Iberia, Belgium, Israel, Italy, Poland, Russia and India.