ITV rules out Endemol Shine purchase

ITV has said that it will not make a bid for Endemol Shine, joining the likes of Germany’s RTL which has also ruled itself out.

“In light of continued press speculation, ITV confirms that it has no current intention of making a bid for Endemol Shine Group,” the company said in a statement to investors on Wednesday morning (October 3).

Endemol chief creative officer Peter Salmon confirmed last month that the business is close to reaching a deal, with new ownership expected to be in place by December.

Killing Eve distributor Endeavor is believed to be the frontrunner, now that ITV has backed out of a bid. Meanwhile, Sony, Lionsgate and All3Media also continue to be linked as potential buyers of the company, which has produced hits such as Big Brother and Peaky Blinders (pictured).

FremantleMedia owner RTL confirmed that it had withdrawn interest in Endemol Shine in September to focus on growth initiatives such as building mass-audience VOD services and expanding Fremantle’s drama output.

The news arrives after Endemol Shine owners Apollo Global and Twenty-First Century Fox put the Big Brother creator up for sale in July for €2.5-4bn.