ITV Studios Global Entertainment Buys Minority Stake in U.K. Producer Monumental Television

U.K. TV giant ITV‘s ITV Studios Global Entertainment unit said Thursday that it has acquired a minority stake in Monumental Television,  the British independent production firm founded by Oscar-nominated film producers Alison Owen and Debra Hayward.

“The agreement will see ITVS GE exclusively distributing all television productions from the recently launched production business, which is already in advanced development on several major scripted series,” the companies said.

Financial details weren’t disclosed.

Owen and Hayward worked on such films as Les Miserables and Saving Mr. Banks and have set their sights set on TV dramas with Monumental.

Ruth Clarke, executive vp, global content & co-productions at ITV Studios GE, said: “In our increasingly international industry this is a fantastic time for drama production, the opportunities in scripted television are enticing major talent from the film industry. Alison and Debra are prolific and highly respected film producers, with world-class contacts. We have been blown away by their development slate of high-end drama, which will bring a cinematic approach to the small screen.”

Said Owen: “The international television landscape has changed out of all recognition. ‘It’s not just that the wall between television and film has collapsed, it’s that the digital business has opened up a whole new space that is ready to house drama every bit as cinematic as movies, full of high quality writing and just as attractive to A-list talent.”

Added Hayward: “Since Alison and I formed Monumental, television has been at the heart of our vision for the new company. Ruth Clarke and her team understand the changing landscape better than anyone and we are excited to be partnering with them.”

Twitter: @georgszalai

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