CTC Media eyes Disney formats

Russian broadcaster CTC Media is looking to produce a number of local versions of Disney-ABC’s library following its multi-year licensing agreement with the studio.

The deal covers finished programming from Disney-ABC International Television’s drama, comedy, kids and film library, but CTC Media is keen to extend this to include format rights.

CTC Media CEO Alexander Rodnyansky told TBIvision that it was in talks to remake a number of Disney shows. "We are always looking for local versions of international productions," he said. "As part of the Disney deal we are talking formats."

Disney-ABC’s library includes shows such as Desperate Housewives Grey’s Anatomy, which CTC already airs, and Brothers & Sisters, all three of which have been remade or are being remade in other countries, notably across Latin America.

CTC Media is also keen to expand its deal with Sony Pictures Television International. It currently airs a local version of sitcom The Nanny and is keen to increase this to over 1,000 hours of local content reversioned from Sony’s library. Sony’s latest hits include legal drama Damages and female romp Cashmere Mafia.