StudioCanal has taken a majority stake in European TV production and distribution company Tandem Communications.

This strategic partnership adds to StudioCanal’s ambitions in the international TV market.

Tandem will continue to develop and produce primetime ‘event’ programmes (primarily English-language) for the world market, as well as distributing its own productions and third-party productions. Major 2012 Tandem productions are the eight-part World Without End (based on the Ken Follett novel) and the four-part Labyrinth (based on the novel by Kate Mosse).

Rola Bauer [pictured], Tim Halkin and Jonas Bauer will remain shareholders and will continue to lead and further develop Tandem Communications.

Olivier Courson, chairman and CEO of StudioCanal said: “With our multi territory distribution network, the development of our international production, amplified by our slate financing deal, StudioCanal is really now a major studio in Europe. As all studios have done, the next logical move is to diversify into TV minis and series. We searched for the best partner in Europe and found Tandem as the ideal one. Their television strategy is in sync with our objective. We were meant to work together. I am really glad to develop this new activity with such talented and gifted producers as Rola, Tim and Jonas.”

“StudioCanal stands for excellent quality”, says Rola Bauer, Tandem president and partner. “Its brand value and strategic expertise will open new levels for growth potential in the years to come. StudioCanal has the foresight to support our entrepreneurial spirit and together we will
multiply our respective strengths.”

Munich-based Tandem was started in 1999 and has worked on series including The Pillars Of The Earth and Dragons’ World.


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