All3Media International Expands Global Reach for “Protection” Thriller
All3Media International, recognized as a powerhouse in production and distribution in the U.K. television market, has successfully secured international distribution agreements for “Protection,” a gripping six-part thriller produced by New Pictures. This series marks another significant addition to All3Media’s impressive portfolio, which includes acclaimed titles like “Fleabag” and “Midsomer Murders.”
Key International Sales Agreements
Following its positive reception during its U.K. launch on ITV and ITVX, “Protection” has seen notable sales in multiple markets. Among the key agreements are:
- A digital rights partnership with BritBox for the United States and English-speaking Canada.
- Digital rights secured by Stan for Australia.
- Television rights acquired by TVNZ for New Zealand.
- DVD and video distribution rights granted to ABC covering both Australia and New Zealand.
Pan-Territory Deals and Additional Acquisitions
In addition to these agreements, BBC Studios has captured “Protection” under a pan-territory deal that spans Asia, India, and the Indian subcontinent. The series will premiere on BBC First and the BBC Player, its premium streaming service.
Sales across the Nordic region have also materialized, with broadcasters in Denmark (DR), Norway (NRK), Iceland (RUV), Sweden (SVT), and Finland (YLE) obtaining rights to the series. Further acquisitions include:
- TV rights in the Netherlands (NPO)
- Greece (Hellenic Telecommunications)
- Israel (Hot and Yes TV)
- Eire (Virgin Media)
Dazzler Media has secured DVD and video rights for the U.K. and Eire, further extending the series’ availability.
Overview of “Protection”
“Protection” draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of a witness protection officer who served in the Metropolitan Police for over three decades. The narrative unfolds around Detective Inspector Liz Nyles, portrayed by Siobhan Finneran. As she navigates a troubled affair with a colleague, Nyles becomes ensnared in corruption within her own unit. Facing threats to her redemption and the security of the witnesses she safeguards, Nyles embarks on a mission to restore integrity to the system she ultimately protects.
Producer Insights
Maartje Horchner, EVP Content at All3Media International, expressed enthusiasm regarding the series, stating: “This powerful, female-led story takes us into an intriguing world we rarely hear about, exploring the moral dilemmas that come up when protecting people who may be criminals themselves.”
Highlighting the success of previous productions from New Pictures, including the acclaimed crime drama “The Long Shadow,” Horchner noted, “we’re delighted to see buyers snapping up another premium drama from this incredibly talented team.”
Creative Team and Casting
The narrative of “Protection” was developed from a concept by a witness protection expert with notable experience in high-profile cases. The series features an impressive cast including Barry Ward, Chaneil Kular, David Hayman, Nichola Burley, and Akiya Henry. The creative team is led by New Pictures co-founders Willow Grylls and Charlie Hampton, with Elaine Pyke and writer Kris Mrksa serving as executive producers.
The series is produced by Rebecca Davies, line produced by Tracy Chapman, and features direction from Simen Alsvik and Sasha Ransome. The writing team includes Mrksa, Polly Buckle, and Giula Sandler, enhancing the depth and complexity of the series.
Distribution and Company Background
With a catalog of over 35,000 hours of content, All3Media International is a leader in distributing award-winning TV programs across 1,000 broadcasters and media platforms worldwide. Its successful series range from the heartwarming “All Creatures Great and Small” to the thrilling “The Tourist” and “The English.” The company’s unscripted content, including titles like “Who is Ghislaine Maxwell,” showcases its diverse offerings in the television landscape.
In January 2024, All3Media International was acquired by Redbird IMI, under the leadership of Jeff Zucker and former Goldman Sachs banker Gerry Cardinale, for $1.45 billion.