Granada Media and New York Times Launch Television Programming Venture

Posted on September 1, 1999

Granada Media, a production company in Europe, and The New York Times have announced that they are joining forces to produce television programming for the international marketplace. Granada will have widespread access to The New York Times newsroom to create documentary programming, including investigative, history, travel, science and current affairs programs.

A dedicated department, based at The New York Times, will originate and develop program ideas to be produced and distributed by Granada Media. Simon Shaps, director of programs for Granada Television, and Richard Flaste, managing director of television enterprises for The New York Times, will oversee the new venture.

"Both parties are bringing their unique talents to this venture and will exploit the worldwide growth of non-fiction programming," said Mr. Shaps. "The New York Times has a fantastic reputation for the highest journalistic standards and, with its huge editorial resources, we believe it will be a great source of new ideas and contacts. As we look to build both our production business overseas and our catalogue of programming with international appeal, this deal fits perfectly with our plans."

Granada Media produces programs for UK Broadcasters and international distribution and has production companies in the U.S., Australia and Germany. Factual programming successes include making ITV's flagship current affairs show World In Action for 35 years and its successor, Tonight.