Sky has taken a majority stake in one of the UK’s leading independent production companies, True North, and an investment in the UK drama production company Chrysalis Vision.
Over the past three years Sky, through its Sky Vision division, has made a number of investments in UK production. Sky Vision has also grown its international distribution business for both its own production businesses and third-party producers.
True North, which was founded in 2001 and is run by the highly respected factual producers Jess Fowle and Andrew Sheldon. Its headquarters are in Leeds with a second base in Manchester. The company has produced a number of hit series including A New Life in the Sun (pictured), Teen Mom UK, Building the Dream, Homes by the Sea and Junior Vets on Call. Channel 4, which originally seeded the business as part of its Indie Growth Fund will now exit its investment.
Sky has also invested in UK-based television drama production company, Chrysalis Vision, which was founded by experienced media executives Chris Wright CBE, Mick Pilsworth, Roger Parry CBE and Luke Johnson, who between them have a strong track record in producing long-running drama series.
Jane Millichip, Managing Director at Sky Vision, said: “We’re excited to be investing in True North. Jess and Andrew have a fantastic reputation for creating and delivering high-quality returnable series. We’re also delighted to be working with Mick and Chris, who have a great track record in building successful, creative businesses, and the whole team at Chrysalis Vision which will bolster our drama ambitions.”
As part of the agreements, Sky Vision will become the commercial and distribution partner for content, worldwide, for both True North and Chrysalis Vision, with the companies benefitting from the expertise of Sky Vision’s international sales teams. Existing terms with other broadcasters and distributors remain unchanged.
