During a case study yesterday at MIPFormats, Destination X, the format that marks the second commission between NBCUniversal and the BBC following the global phenomenon of The Traitors, Ed Havard, SVP, Non-Scripted Programming, NBCUniversal; and Syeda Irtizaali, Editor of Unscripted, BBC, talked about the challenges of moving forward with coproductions with the highly anticipated title.
The idea for this partnership arose in 2020 when both giants of the television industry were looking for ways to innovate and offer unique experiences globally. The premise of Destination X is simple ‘but exciting,’ Havard explained. The plot of the format follows a group of contestants who will travel around the world in a special vehicle, facing challenges and mysteries in different unknown locations. The contestant furthest from the starting location will be eliminated, while the audience is also kept guessing about the fate of the contestants.
What makes Destination X particularly special is the transatlantic collaboration between NBCUniversal and BBC. ‘This partnership allows format creators and developers to access global resources and international audiences in an unprecedented way. Both companies are committed to the success of the program, which is reflected in the meticulous attention paid to every detail, from development to production’, said Irtizaali.
‘The partnership between both companies also provides a platform for innovation and creative risk’, both executives assured. Also, Havard said that by joining forces, both companies can take on ‘bolder challenges and carry out ambitious projects that would not otherwise be possible’. ‘In addition, collaboration allows for the sharing of resources and knowledge, resulting in greater efficiency and quality in content production’.
‘Destination X is just the beginning of this exciting partnership between NBCUniversal and BBC. With a focus on creativity, originality and excellence, both companies are committed to taking unscripted television to new heights. Viewers can expect a unique and exciting experience that will challenge their expectations and take them on an unforgettable journey around the world’, Irtizaali concluded.
