The growing international demand for European scripted formats took center stage at Series Mania, where industry experts examined the evolving role of intellectual property (IP) in television. Moderated by Jérémie Kessler, Head of International Affairs at CNC, the panel «Scripted Formats: The Golden Age of European Series IP?” explored how local successes are increasingly adapted worldwide as the industry seeks stability in an uncertain market.
While film has long been a source for international remakes, the past two decades have seen television series emerge as highly valuable IP assets. France, in particular, has positioned itself as a major exporter, with global adaptations of Call My Agent and Le Bureau des Légendes (The Bureau) demonstrating the commercial and creative potential of European formats. The discussion also underscored broader concerns about ownership, as European producers navigate a media landscape where American studios exert significant influence.
Retaining Control and Maximizing Value
To maintain creative autonomy and financial control, initiatives such as Cannes Remakes have been launched to support European content creators. Kessler emphasized that retaining IP is not just about preserving artistic vision but also about securing the resources needed to develop future projects.
The panel showcased different strategies for leveraging scripted formats. Federation Studios, through its «Federation IP 360» initiative, takes a multi-faceted approach by acquiring and selling IPs across multiple territories. The company’s high-profile co-production of The Bureau and its U.S. remake, The Agency, exemplifies how a local series can evolve into a global franchise.
Nordic distributor Reinvent International Sales prioritizes selling original series before negotiating remake deals, as seen with Out of Touch, a Swedish dramedy currently being adapted in multiple regions. Meanwhile, Studio TF1 has adjusted its licensing approach to balance global expansion with local market visibility. The success of HIP, sold to 100 territories within three months, contrasts with Candice Renoir, which took eight years to achieve the same reach.
A Market Built on Adaptation
From Germany, ZDF Studios reaffirmed the enduring relevance of remakes, particularly in light crime, procedural drama, and dramedy—genres that consistently perform well internationally. Given budget constraints and risk aversion across the industry, adapting proven concepts remains an attractive option for broadcasters and producers.
The discussion highlighted that strong IP serves not only as a tool for distribution but also as a key factor in attracting talent. Established actors and showrunners increasingly gravitate toward projects with recognized IP, as they provide creative structure and market credibility.
Panelists agreed that the ability to successfully adapt content across different cultural and linguistic markets is now a fundamental part of the industry. Whether through direct licensing, strategic partnerships, or carefully timed remake rights, European scripted formats are playing an increasingly central role in shaping global television.
