Press Release
Northern Pictures David Haslingden and Keshet International's Managing Director Alon Shtruzman to Oversee Keshet's Catalogue through New Keshet Australia Banner
Sydney, Australia May 28, 2013 — Today Keshet International (KI), the global distribution and production arm of Keshet Media Group, and Australia's Northern Pictures signed a joint venture to bring Keshet’s significant slate of scripted and unscripted formats to Australian and New Zealand television screens. The announcement was made today by Northern Pictures owner David Haslingden and Keshet International's MD Alon Shtruzman, who brokered the deal.
Under the agreement, Keshet Australia will be jointly owned by RACAT and Keshet International. Northern Pictures will have the rights to over 50 Keshet International properties, to be produced in the territory under the Keshet Australia banner.
Mr Haslingden, who recently purchased Northern Pictures, NHNZ and Singapore based Beach House Pictures, sees this deal as a key next step for Northern Pictures which is experiencing significant growth into new genres.
"I've worked with Alon and a number of other Keshet executives and Keshet alumni for many years and I've witnessed first-hand their powerful and addictive combination of creativity, and business acumen. Keshet’s growth over the last 5 years has been unrivaled and we are confident Keshet Australia will replicate that success here,” he said. “Keshet is one of the best in the game of scripted and unscripted television, and Northern Pictures has a strong reputation in Australia with deep industry contacts, plus a New Zealand link through sister company NHNZ – it’s an ideal match.”
Mr. Shtruzman believes many of the Keshet shows and formats can be as successful in Australia and New Zealand as they have been in the US, the UK, and the numerous other markets around the world where Keshet formats have found significant audiences.
“We are extremely excited to bring KI's slate to Australia and New Zealand, and I can't think of a better partner than David for this venture.
This year many of Keshet's shows will be produced across numerous countries and continents,” Shtruzman said. “Given the strength of the Australian broadcasting industry and the strongly emerging cable channel universe we believe Australia can quickly become one of our most important markets."
Northern Pictures managing director Sue Clothier describes the Keshet JV as a remarkable opportunity for her team to work with one of the most successful format and original content producers in the world.
“It’s a real coup to be given the chance to introduce Keshet’s original and inspirational content to Australia and New Zealand screens,” said Clothier.
Keshet International (KI) is Keshet Media Group's global distribution and production arm. Headed by Managing Director Alon Shtruzman, it includes Keshet's local production outposts (Keshet UK, Keshet Australia, with more to be announced soon) as well as its global distribution arm. KI's catalogue consists of over 60 tried and tested properties that appeal to audiences worldwide, spanning all genres. Highlights include hit drama Prisoners of War, the original Israeli version of prime time Emmy® winner Homeland; docu-reality format Dear Neighbors, Help our Daughter Find Love; talent show Master Class; cross platform format – 50 Things You Have to Know; reality dating format Girlfri3nds; game show The Vault and 'buddy comedy’ Traffic Light, winner of the International Emmy® Award.
Northern Pictures is a TV production company that delivers large-scale factual television to the Australian and international market. Based in Australia, Northern Pictures has a global outlook and is committed to innovative ideas and high quality production. Northern Pictures is part of the RACAT group of companies, along with NHNZ and Beach House Pictures. The Group produces over 200 hours of programming from production bases in New Zealand, Australia and Singapore.