Television executives have been actively seeking new programming at the Cannes Mipcom conference, with attention focused on a blind Sherlock, a controversial “torture” reality show, and a new series featuring Matthew Macfadyen of Succession, reports BritPanorama.
This year’s Mipcom attracted over 10,000 producers, programme buyers, and channel executives, as well as celebrities, to showcase the latest offerings in the global television market.
The UK led the event with its largest delegation, as broadcasters negotiated to capitalize on potential hits like Traitors and heartwarming comedies to fill programming gaps akin to the now-concluded Gavin & Stacey.
ITV Studios announced it has secured the production rights for Solitary, a reality show that subjects contestants to a brutal isolation experience devoid of time reference or human contact, raising ethical concerns over the format. Contestants must confront severe physical and mental challenges guided only by a computer AI named Val, with the last participant standing winning the game.
The extreme conditions have faced criticism, being labelled as “torture” by some U.S. outlets during its initial airing on Fox Reality Channel, possibly indicating a shift back to more endurance-focused television formats reminiscent of early 2000s reality shows.
Matthew Macfadyen introduced his new series, The Miniature Wife, showcasing a biotech genius who inadvertently shrinks his wife, portrayed by Elizabeth Banks, to a mere six inches tall. This drama is produced by Media Res, the firm behind Apple TV+’s acclaimed The Morning Show.
Perhaps the most notable development at Mipcom was the emergence of YouTube as a major talent pool for traditional television companies. The engaging reality series Let’s Play Ball originated on the platform and has prompted YouTube executives to encourage partnerships between broadcasters and its influencers, who cater to a younger demographic that often bypasses conventional TV.
BBC Studios has announced a collaboration with YouTube, vowing to cultivate “the biggest fandoms across the world” through innovative programming and channel promotion on the Google-owned platform.
High-concept drama
Blind Sherlock
This unique adaptation from France’s TF1 presents a modern interpretation of the famous detective story featuring a protagonist who is both blind and skilled, merging elements of Sherlock Holmes with superhero capabilities. Based on a true story, this narrative aims to showcase a positive portrayal of disability, as the hero utilizes his blindness to solve crimes.
Half Man
Expectations are high for Half Man, a new series from Richard Gadd, creator of the controversial Netflix production Baby Reindeer. This family drama spans 40 years, chronicling the lives of brothers Ruben and Niall, played by Gadd and Jamie Bell, respectively. The show was co-produced by HBO and BBC and has already attracted international interest at Mipcom.
Wacky challenges
Let’s Play Ball
This Dutch-produced reality show features two teams of comedians competing to transport a massive red ball across various challenging environments. The innovative format has garnered significant interest from UK broadcasters, with rights holders Banijay UK in advanced discussions to adapt the show for British audiences.
James Townley, Banijay’s chief content officer, noted that Let’s Play Ball has emerged as a standout at Mipcom, highlighting its potential as a digital-first concept that could resonate globally.
Nation’s Dumbest
This innovative format features celebrities, politicians, and influencers attempting to eliminate themselves from the competition through a series of challenges designed to underscore their ineptitude. The format is already successful in Norway and Sweden, with BBC Studios holding rights for a UK adaptation.
True-life drama
The Lady
This four-part drama focuses on Jane Andrews, a former aide to the Duchess of York and a convicted murderer. Produced by Left Bank, known for The Crown, the project gains further relevance following recent revelations about Prince Andrew’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Natalie Dormer, who portrays the Duchess, has opted not to promote the series due to its sensitive subject matter.
The next big reality format
FCF
In an unprecedented move, Banijay is launching a professional football club, FC Failliet/Finesse (FCF), set to compete in the Dutch professional league. This initiative aims to follow the team’s journey through various social media platforms, including TikTok and YouTube, inspired by the successful charity matches organized by the YouTube group Sidemen.
On Brand
Hosted by Jimmy Fallon, this new business challenge series seeks to rival popular shows like The Apprentice and Dragons’ Den, inviting contestants to pitch “Super Bowl-worthy” advertising campaigns for major international brands in a supportive competitive environment.
