Keshet Media Group pushes into Australian with Northern Pictures partnership
Global distribution and production company Keshet International has paired with Australian production Northern Pictures to open Keshet Australia.
The move will give Australia and New Zealand access to Israeli media company Keshet Media Group’s scripted and unscripted formats.
The Israel-based company formed in the 90s with Keshet International being established in 2000. It was responsible for the original adaptation of Homeland, Prisoners of War.
Under the agreement, Keshet Australia will be jointly owned by David Haslingden’s Racat Group, the parent company of Northern Pictures, 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.
Northern Pictures is known for works such as Once Upon a Time In Cabramatta and Darwin’s Brave New World.
Haslingden said: “Keshet’s growth over the last five years has been unrivaled and we are confident Keshet Australia will replicate that success here. 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,” Haslingden said.
Keshet International’s MD Alon Shtruzman said he believes many of the Keshet shows and formats can be as successful in Australia and New Zealand as they have been in the US and the UK.
“This year many of Keshet’s shows will be produced across numerous countries and continents. 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.”
