News

7 October 2008

ENDEMOL SECURES NEW DRAMA COMMISSION IN RUSSIA

Endemol International today announced that it has sold another major drama series to Russia.

Endemol Moscow has been commissioned by Channel One to produce a prime time Russian adaptation of Talpa series, Vipers Nest. Originally produced by Endemol Netherlands the show is a proven a hit in European territories such as France and Holland. Production of the 16 x 60 minute Russian version is due to begin later this year and transmission dates will be confirmed in due course.

This latest deal follows Channel One's commission of a local version of Endemol's hit drama The Heritage, which is also being produced by Endemol Moscow and is due to premier later this year.

Leonid Zagalsky, Executive Producer for Endemol Moscow comments: "I'm delighted to have secured our second prime time scripted deal with Channel One. Vipers Nest is a funny and moving drama that has established itself as an extremely popular show in Europe. It has all the hallmarks of hit and I think it will have huge appeal to the Russian audience."

Caroline Torrance, Director of Scripted Programming and Distribution at Endemol International adds: "We're very excited about Vipers Nest as a scripted format and I expect this to be the first of many such deals for the show. Russia is a territory where we see significant growth opportunities and I'm extremely pleased to have two major drama commissions in place there."

In a compelling mix of drama and comedy, Vipers Nest tells the story of four very different women who apparently have only one thing in common: their extreme wealth. But as their complex lives unfold, relationships, motherhood, marriage, money, sex and adultery begin to take their toll. Before long they realise they are not so different after all and a close friendship blossoms.

Endemol has a growing library of over 220 scripted titles including dramas, soaps, sketch shows, thrillers and telenovelas. The company is continuing to expand its global output and distribution of scripted programming which currently generates an annual turnover of around 200 million euros.