U. S. Unscripted TV Producers Pivot to International Market for Survival

Facing a slump in the U. S. market, small to mid-sized unscripted TV producers are looking abroad for work. Recently, more American accents were heard at the MIPCOM market in Cannes. Producers like Lucky 8, known for shows like "60 Days In, " are exploring co-productions and deals with international partners to stay afloat. With budget cuts and fewer cable network buyers, U. S. producers are teaming up with overseas companies to share costs and tap new audiences. Companies like Critical Content are already making strategic moves, hiring international specialists and striking co-production deals.

This shift is driven by the need to survive in a tough market. For instance, Lucky 8 has hired Sarah Bickley to help navigate international waters, while Intuitive Content is working with Singapore's Hazelnut Media on a new cooking show. The goal is to create franchises and exploit existing rights better. Fox Entertainment Studios is also bullish on international partnerships, seeing them as a smart business move to stay creative and relevant. Overall, U. S. producers are adapting to the new landscape, understanding that international collaboration might be the key to their survival.

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