NBC Inks Deal with Keshet Studios for Scripted First-Look Programming

NBC Entertainment is partnering with Keshet Studios, the recently launched L.A.-based subsidiary of Keshet International (KI) that oversees KI's scripted programming activities in the U.S., on a first-look programming deal for the network that also includes a co-production pact for scripted fare with NBC's sibling studio, Universal Television.

The announcement was made by Robert Greenblatt, Chairman, NBC Entertainment and Jennifer Salke, President, NBC Entertainment.

"Keshet International's proven track record of producing quality programs across different genres makes them a perfect partner with NBC," Greenblatt said. "We're very much looking forward to finding the right projects that bring out the best in both our companies."

"We are thrilled that Peter Traugott is leading the charge in U.S. Television Development for Keshet Studios," Salke said. "Between Keshet International's incredible library of I.P., access to original voices and Peter's expertise as a producer and developer, NBC is well positioned for success in partnership with this innovative company."

"Our history and success with NBC is a wonderful platform for which to launch a formal and long-term relationship. Bob, Jennifer and the leadership team are among the best in the business and Keshet Studios looks forward to developing and delivering more Keshet quality and branded programming for U.S. audiences," said Alon Shtruzman, CEO, Keshet International.

The deal extends the existing relationship between NBCUniversal and KI, the global distribution and production arm of Israel's leading media company and broadcaster Keshet Media Group. KI recently produced the usa network drama "Dig" while NBC aired the KI-produced drama "Allegiance" earlier this year.

Keshet Studios, which was launched in July 2015, has access to KI's current catalogue of more than 30 scripted formats as well as future scripted formats to adapt for domestic audiences, and will also develop original series for the U.S. and abroad. Its formation follows KI's maturing business and strong track record of successful scripted programming in the U.S., starting with its globally successful format "Prisoners of War," which was adapted into the Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning series "Homeland," and more recently with shows such as "Tyrant" on FX and "Your Family or Mine" on TBS.

NBC Entertainment develops and schedules the network's primetime, late-night, and daytime programming. NBC's quality programs and balanced lineup have earned the network critical acclaim, numerous awards and ratings success. The network finished the 2014-15 season as #1 in the 18-49 demo for the second year in a row. NBC has earned more Emmy Awards than any network in television history. NBC's scripted slate is highlighted by "The Blacklist" as well as "Law & Order: SVU," "Chicago Fire," "Chicago P.D.," "Grimm," "The Night Shift," "The Mysteries of Laura" and "Undateable." New series in the fall include "Blindspot," "The Player" and "Chicago Med."

Unscripted series for NBC include the Emmy Award-winning musical competition hit "The Voice" as well as "American Ninja Warrior," "Celebrity Apprentice," "The Biggest Loser," "Hollywood Game Night," "I Can Do That" and the #1 most-watched summer series, "America's Got Talent." Upcoming this fall is "Best Time Ever with Neil Patrick Harris."

Universal Television is one of the largest and most successful television production companies in the United States. The studio currently produces nearly 20 primetime series as well as late-night and reality programs for a variety of network, cable, and digital platforms. Acclaimed series produced by Universal Television include "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," "The Mindy Project," "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," "Law & Order: SVU," "Chicago Fire" and "Bates Motel," among numerous others, and all of NBC's successful late night programs. Universal Television is a division of NBCUniversal, which develops, produces and markets the best entertainment, news and information to a global audience.

ABOUT KESHET STUDIOS

Keshet Studios is the LA-based subsidiary of Keshet International (KI) which oversees all development, production, packaging, promotion and sales of KI's scripted programming activities in the US. Keshet Studios has access to all existing and future KI scripted formats to adapt for domestic audiences. Additionally, it is charged with developing and producing new scripted content for the US, and creating new scripted formats for the international marketplace via KI.

KI is one of the world's leading suppliers of scripted content to the US. Its internationally renowned format Prisoners of War was adapted to become the Emmy® and Golden Globe® award-winning series Homeland. It also recently co-produced DIG with Universal Cable Productions for USA Network, YOUR FAMILY OR MINE for TBS, and executive produces TYRANT for FX. Keshet Studios is one of several KI outposts worldwide including Keshet UK, Keshet Australia and Keshet DCP, the company's unscripted US joint venture with dick clark productions.

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