Sky has bought a 60 per cent stake in Jupiter Entertainment, a US-based independent production company which specialises in documentaries, reality series, true crime and lifestyle series.
Jupiter Entertainment’s hits include Welcome to Myrtle Manor, Wild West Alaska, Snapped and Homicide Hunter and the firm makes shows for a number of major broadcasters including A&E, Discovery, History, Investigation Discovery, Oxygen, TLC and Animal Planet.
It also has a “first look” deal for Random House’s non-fiction publications.
Sky’s purchase of a majority stake in the firm is part of an ongoing strategy to become “a broad, international content business spanning broadcasting, production and distribution.”
The UK broadcaster already has stakes in Love Productions in the UK and LA-based Znak & Jones.
It says Jupiter will continue to operate as a distinct company with Sky Vision, Sky’s international distribution business, becoming Jupiter Entertainment’s distribution partner for all new programmes and formats.
Jane Millichip, Managing Director, Sky Vision commented: “Over the past two decades, Jupiter has built an impressive track record in popular factual television, and has become a major supplier to a variety of US networks.
“They have an exciting slate of returning series and new formats, and Jupiter will become an important partner for Sky Vision as we build our presence in the US market.”
Stephen Land, CEO and Executive Producer, Jupiter Entertainment commented: “We couldn’t be more delighted. Sky is an ideal strategic partner.
“Combining Jupiter’s strong domestic growth with Sky’s global reach creates thrilling possibilities.
“We have ambitious growth plans and believe our employees and network partners will all benefit from this exciting combination.”