Blue Ant acquires Canada’s Saloon Media

Blue Ant Media has acquired Toronto-based company Saloon Media, which specialises in factual projects.

Saloon Media’s CEO Michael Kot (pictured) and executive producers Paul Kilback and Steve Gamester will join Blue Ant’s Global Production unit, along with head of production Betty Orr.

The purchase is a step toward expansion in North America, where Blue Ant looks to grow its original content. The news arrives days after the producer-distributor made senior executive appointments in Canada and the US.

Saloon Media launched in 2013 and has produced shows across History (Canada), Smithsonian Channel, Yesterday (UK) and More4 (UK). Hit titles include Mummies Alive, Tornado Hunters and See No Evil.

Sam Sniderman, executive VP of global production at Blue Ant, said: “Blue Ant Media is committed to growing its content business in both Canada and the United States. The acquisition of Saloon Media is a key step in the execution of this strategy, as their award-winning factual content and notable creative talent fit perfectly within our content growth strategy in North America.”

Kot added: “Saloon’s ambition to reach a wider audience and connect with new global business partners dovetails perfectly withBlueAntMedia’s push to expand content production for world markets. We’re extremely excited to be part of BlueAnt’s growing North American team.”