Fremantle and Roughcut sign deal for first-look drama

Fremantle

People just do nothing Producer Roughcut TV has reaffirmed its drama ambitions by signing a first-look deal with Fremantle, following the recently announced Small disasters Series.

The first-look and drama development deal will see the super-indie broadcaster become the primary home for Ash Atalla’s company’s drama projects, with the producer working closely with Fremantle’s Global Drama and International Distribution divisions.

The news comes as Roughcut expands its range of scripted dramas, with a team led by CEO Atalla, Creative Director Alex Smith and Head of Drama Marianna Abbotts, and follows a recent collaboration with Fremantle on a psychological thriller. Small disasters for Paramount+ starring Diane Kruger. Roughcut’s debut drama was the Paramount-owned Channel 5 series coma and also acquired the rights to Nina Miln’s dark comedy satire debut Goddesses in 2022.

Roughcut has always been a comedy producer. Over the years it has produced hits including People just do nothing, Stath Lets Apartments And Big boys.

Atalla said his goal is to “build quickly and become a new generation of global drama providers.”

Rebecca Dundon, SVP Scripted Content, International at Fremantle, added: “Roughcut’s commercial savvy and brilliant creative vision, led by Ash, Alex and Marianna, delivers an exciting slate of original, contemporary drama series that are in tune with what audiences and buyers are actively seeking both locally and globally.”

Fremantle currently averages about one contract announcement per week. In recent weeks, the company has tied Kristen Stewart and Stefano Sollima while also securing a deal with James Baldwin’s family.

The Roughcut deal was driven by Jill Kellie, VP Commercial Strategy, Commercial & International at Fremantle and Tim Sealey, Chief Operating Officer at Roughcut.