Sales round-up: Rive Gauche shops ‘In Their Own Words’; Abacus takes ‘Masked Dancer UK’ rights

Elon Musk

Rive Gauche shops ‘In Their Own Words’

AfterShock Media’s LA-based Rive Gauche has acquired international distribution rights to PBS documentary In Their Own Words.

Each episode of the 6 x 60-minute series explores the life and impact of a major figure in modern history – Elon Musk, Princess Diana, Pope Francis, Angela Merkel, Jimmy Carter and Chuck Berry.

The series will also feature access to high profile people close to the famous subjects, such as John Travolta, Hillary Clinton, President George W. Bush and more.

The series is a co-venture of Dalaklis Media and Prospero Media, produced by Lower Canada Productions, in association with PBS, Documentary Channel, Rive Gauche Television and with the participation of Rogers Cable Network Fund.

“We’re excited to offer this premium bio doc series In Their Own Words to the global marketplace and share the stories of these amazing individuals along with the pivotal moments in their lives and the motivation behind them,” said Marine Ksadzhikyan, COO & EVP of Sales at Rive Gauche.

The Masked Dancer

Abacus takes ‘Masked Dancer UK’ rights

Abacus Media Rights has acquired international distribution rights (excluding the UK) for entertainment series The Masked Dancer UK.

Produced by Argonon-owned Bandicoot Scotland, and available from late spring, this 7 x 90-minute series is a spin-off from the popular The Masked Singer format and will feature mystery celebrities performing unique dances whilst covered from head-to-toe in extravagant, colourful and elaborate costumes and masks, leaving audiences and the star panel to guess their identities.

Hosted by Joel Dommett, the celebrity panellists include dancer and Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse, British broadcaster Jonathan Ross, TV presenter Davina McCall and stand-up comedian Mo Gilligan.

Abacus has also struck deals with for sister show The Masked Singer UK, with the series headed to Virgin in Ireland, Game TV in Canada, BBC Brit in South Africa and Stöð 2 in Iceland.

Jonathan Ford, Abacus MD, commented, “We’re really excited to have the opportunity to offer The Masked Dancer UK from Bandicoot and Argonon to our clients in addition to the first two series of The Masked Singer UK.

“This unique concept appeals to viewers and to major artistes alike – it’s fun, bright and shiny entertainment for everyone.  It also gives broadcasters a great opportunity to engage with their audiences through social channels to build interest around the show as it airs.”