Two titans of the television production world are reportedly in advanced discussions to merge, a move that would create a colossal European entertainment powerhouse. Paris-based Banijay Group, the world's largest independent TV producer, is in talks with UK-based All3Media, the company behind global hits like The Traitors and Peaky Blinders.
A Potential TV Production Behemoth
The merger would combine the vast catalogues of both companies, bringing together some of the most popular shows on British and international screens. Banijay's portfolio includes juggernauts like MasterChef, Survivor, Pointless, and Location, Location, Location. This would be fused with All3Media's staple programmes, which also feature Call the Midwife, Midsomer Murders, Great British Menu, and Race Across the World.
According to a report by Reuters, which cited a source familiar with the negotiations, a potential deal is expected to involve All3Media injecting funds into the merged entity. This is because All3Media, owned by the Abu Dhabi-backed investment vehicle RedBird IMI, is the smaller of the two production groups.
Background of Strategic Moves
These talks follow a period of significant strategic manoeuvring within the UK's television production sector. Last year, there were reports that RedBird IMI had held discussions with ITV about merging ITV Studios with All3Media. ITV Studios is the maker of major shows such as Love Island, I'm a Celebrity... and the recent drama sensation Mr Bates vs The Post Office.
That potential move prompted Banijay to explore making a takeover offer for ITV Studios itself, although no formal bid was ever tabled. In a separate development, Comcast, the parent company of Sky, entered talks in November to buy ITV's broadcasting business for an estimated £1.6 billion.
Controversy and Corporate Scrutiny
Banijay itself made headlines last summer for reasons beyond corporate deals. An internal investigation it conducted into the BBC's MasterChef programme, which it produces, upheld 45 allegations against host Greg Wallace. These included claims of inappropriate sexual language and one incident of unwelcome physical contact. The probe also upheld one allegation against co-presenter John Torode regarding the use of racist language.
Following the investigation, Wallace was dropped from the show. John Torode has not had his contract renewed. This incident highlighted the broader scrutiny and duty of care responsibilities facing major production companies.
If completed, the merger between Banijay and All3Media would reshape the competitive landscape of European television production, placing an enormous library of iconic and profitable formats under one roof. The industry will be watching closely to see if these advanced talks culminate in a definitive agreement.
