Factual

Space Invaders has been acquired by Channel 4 for More4 in the UK and by 6ter (a Groupe M6 FTA channel) in France, with each broadcaster picking up both seasons (20 x 60) of the original Nine Network Australia show.

In addition, new production company Bloom Media House, whose CEO is former Masterchef Italia EP Marco Chiappa, has just optioned the format rights to develop the series in Italy. This follows earlier news about European format options in Germany, France, and Finland.

Produced by Fred Media’s parent company, WTFN, Space Invaders’ timely and emotional mix of de-cluttering, renovation and transformation proved a ratings-winner when it first aired on Nine Network last year, with a second season quickly commissioned. Season two is due to premiere in Australia on 19th February.

Across the globe families are battling a clutter crisis and desperately need an intervention. Enter inspirational declutter guru Peter Walsh. With multiple best-selling books and years ‘organising’ for TV titan Oprah Winfrey, Peter has transformed thousands of lives. Understanding that people’s belongings are heavily tied to their emotions, in confronting scenes he pushes families to take ownership of their ‘stuff’ and turn chaos to calm. Joining Peter is renovation queen Cherie Barber and treasure hunter Lucas Callaghan. Cherie has just two three to renovate the homes, with her mantra ‘minimum spend for maximum impact’. Meanwhile former Aussie Pickers star Lucas sorts through the trash to find hidden gems he can turn into fast cash. Authentic, emotion-charged, and always good humoured, Space Invaders helps those in greatest need, and in the process inspires homeowners to improve their lives.

Karen Connell, Fred Media’s senior sales manager for UK & Western Europe, was responsible for closing each of the deals. She comments: “We are thrilled that Space Invaders is proving to be so popular and are excited that the second season gives even more opportunity to broadcasters looking to establish new programme brands for their audiences. With their existing commitment to property and renovation shows, both More4 and 6ter are ideal partners for the series. Moreover, the fact that this programme uses a mix of smart advice and sensitivity to transform not just the homes but also the lives of its participants, it will quickly resonate with any viewer currently frustrated with the space they live in, especially if they have been recently encouraged to work from home.”