Sony Pictures Television (SPT) has signed an exclusive first-look deal with Nigerian media company EbonyLife Media to develop scripted TV series.
SPT gets the first look at all new EbonyLife-controlled scripted television projects created, originated or developed by EbonyLife and intended for global audiences.
The two-year agreement is aimed at identifying projects for a global audience that are rooted in EbonyLife’s mission to showcase a pioneering and progressive Africa.
Sony and EbonyLife have collaborated for the past three years on a co-development/production deal, which resulted in the creation of an action drama inspired by the female Dahomey Warriors.
EbonyLife CEO Mo Abudu said: “Taking African storytelling to global audiences is something we are very passionate about, and this new opportunity with Sony gives us a chance to reach massive audiences worldwide with our scripted TV series. So get ready – we are coming to entertain and thrill you!”
“We are delighted to be broadening our relationship with Mo and the team at EbonyLife, who have created some of the most compelling and successful content in all of Africa. We’re excited to have the opportunity to help bring their soulful African storytelling to platforms serving a global audience,” said Nina Lederman, SPT’s EVP global scripted development.
Abudu has been described by Forbes as one of Africa’s most successful women, juggling an on-screen career as a talk show host alongside her duties running EbonyLife.
EbonyLife signed a deal with Netflix last year to create two original series, while a number of its films and series were licensed by the streamer.
The two-year exclusive first look deal commenced in January 2021.