Banijay, Production Giant Behind ‘Black Mirror’ and ‘Survivor,’ Eyeing Bid for ITV or ITV Studios (Report)

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Discussions surrounding a potential buyout of U.K.’s TV behemoth ITV or ITV Studios, its production arm, continue unabated. On Monday, Banijay Group, a prominent French production company, emerged as a possible suitor, reportedly in preliminary talks about submitting an acquisition proposal for either the entire company or just its studio division, as suggested by the Financial Times.

The report relied on information from two individuals who were involved in the matter. Neither ITV nor Banijay responded when approached by The Hollywood Reporter for a comment.

Combining Banijay and ITV would unite two of Europe‘s most prominent television production companies. Notable shows produced by ITV Studios include “Love Island”, the Disney+ series “Rivals”, “The Voice”, and Netflix hit “Fool Me Once”. On the other hand, Banijay is behind productions such as “Big Brother”, “MasterChef”, “Survivor”, “Peaky Blinders”, and “Black Mirror”.

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The amalgamation of Banijay and ITV would result in a union of two of Europe’s leading TV production companies. Some successful franchises under the ITV Studios umbrella are “Love Island”, “The Voice”, “Fool Me Once” on Netflix, and Disney+’s “Rivals”. Meanwhile, Banijay boasts productions like “Big Brother”, “MasterChef”, “Survivor”, “Peaky Blinders”, and “Black Mirror”.

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The joining of forces between Banijay and ITV would create a powerful duo among Europe’s television production companies. Among the hit shows produced by ITV Studios are “Love Island”, “The Voice”, Netflix’s “Fool Me Once”, and Disney+’s “Rivals”. Similarly, Banijay is known for producing “Big Brother”, “MasterChef”, “Survivor”, “Peaky Blinders”, and “Black Mirror”.

Previously, divisions of ITV’s studio have garnered attention from companies like RedBird IMI, All3Media (a major production company), and various private equity firms. The value of ITV’s shares has risen this year due to speculation surrounding potential deals.

ITV is persisting in expanding its thriving production sector, as stated by CEO Carolyn McCall during a conference call with journalists recently, refraining from addressing speculations regarding a potential merger within the division.

She stated that our company is of exceptional quality, boasting both scale and diversity. With much discussion circulating, she anticipated such chatter. There’s also talk surrounding Banijay and Fremantle, as well as all studio businesses. We won’t address any rumors. However, we will only confirm that we will keep expanding the business in the same manner it has been grown. Since 2018, our growth has increased by approximately 35%.

If Banijay were to propose buying out all of ITV, it’s probable that they would seek extra financial backers, as suggested by a report in the Financial Times.

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2025-04-28 14:25