EXCLUSIVE: TF1 Group’s Histoire TV network has joined forces with ZDF and AMC Networks for the European science co-production series, Scanning History. This collaboration marks a significant step in the realm of historical and scientific programming, bringing together some of the most influential broadcasters in Europe.
Under the terms of the agreement with Big Media, a producer-distributor based in New York and Paris, Histoire TV has secured exclusive TV rights for Scanning History in France and French-speaking Africa. This partnership also includes Germany’s ZDF, AMC Networks in Spain, and Prime TV in Czechia, all of whom will contribute to shaping the editorial direction of the six-part series. European broadcasters have a long history of collaborating on high-cost science and history series, which often benefit from such partnerships.
In addition to Scanning History, Histoire TV’s multi-faceted deal with Big Media includes the licensing of finished series such as Spycraft and Secret Vatican Files: The Pope & the Devil. This strategic move enhances Histoire TV’s content library, offering viewers a diverse range of high-quality programming.
Scanning History is a groundbreaking six-part series that delves into the impact of technological advancements on modern archaeology. Traditional methods like spades, oral texts, and maps have given way to cutting-edge techniques such as satellite photography, digital imaging, 3D technology, isotope analysis, tomography, and mass spectrometry. The series will feature on-the-ground case studies and provide access to archaeologists who are at the forefront of these technological changes.
Christophe Sommet, CEO of Histoire TV, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We strive to bring Histoire TV viewers the highest-quality entertainment and information series. By securing rights to Scanning History from Big Media early on in the production, we not only have editorial input into a fascinating series of exceptional quality but also exclusivity in our market that affords us a competitive advantage in a crowded TV landscape.”
Danny Wilk, President of Big Media, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Histoire TV into our fold of international partners and licensees. Thanks to the support we have been receiving, Big Media is able to produce content that resonates with viewers around the world. Scanning History is the type of series that defies language and cultural barriers and is universally appealing. We’re looking forward to seeing how well it is received in France, Germany, Spain, and across the globe.”
Histoire TV, a generalist history network, is distributed in more than 30 French-speaking countries and boasts over 14 million subscribers. This extensive reach ensures that Scanning History will have a broad and diverse audience, further solidifying the network’s position as a leader in historical and scientific programming.
The collaboration between Histoire TV, ZDF, and AMC Networks for Scanning History is a testament to the power of international partnerships in producing high-quality, informative content. By pooling resources and expertise, these broadcasters can create a series that not only educates but also captivates audiences around the world.
As the series progresses, viewers can expect to see a blend of traditional archaeological methods and modern technology, providing a comprehensive look at how the field has evolved. The use of advanced techniques like satellite photography and 3D technology will offer new insights into historical sites and artifacts, making Scanning History a must-watch for history and science enthusiasts alike.
In conclusion, the partnership between TF1 Group’s Histoire TV, ZDF, and AMC Networks for Scanning History represents a significant milestone in the world of historical and scientific programming. With exclusive rights in key markets and a commitment to high-quality content, this collaboration is set to make a lasting impact on viewers and the field of archaeology.
