Sky has acquired a 60% stake in Jupiter Entertainment – a US-based independent production company which has produced content for networks including A&E, Discovery, History and Animal Planet.
The investment forms part of Sky’s strategy to grow a broad, international content business across broadcasting, production and distribution, and builds on previous investments in independent production companies including Love Productions and Znak & Jones.
Jupiter will continue to operate as a distinct business under the new ownership structure, producing programmes for a variety of broadcasters, while Sky’s international distribution business, Sky Vision, will become Jupiter Entertainment’s distribution partner, representing new finished programmes and formats.
Jupiter’s existing agreements with other broadcasters and distributors will remain unchanged.
“Over the past two decades, Jupiter has built an impressive track record in popular factual television, and has become a major supplier to a variety of US networks,” said Jane Millichip, managing director of Sky Vision.
“They have an exciting slate of returning series and new formats, and Jupiter will become an important partner for Sky Vision as we build our presence in the US market.”
Stephen Land, CEO and executive producer, Jupiter Entertainment, said that Sky is an “ideal” strategic partner.
“Combining Jupiter’s strong domestic growth with Sky’s global reach creates thrilling possibilities. We have ambitious growth plans and believe our employees and network partners will all benefit from this exciting combination.”
