DCD Rights Inks North American and International Sales for drama series Mr & Mrs Murder

16 May 2013


London/Sydney: International distributor DCD Rights has sealed deals for FremantleMedia Australia’s new drama series Mr & Mrs Murder launched at MIP TV in April.  Acorn Media Group, a subsidiary of RLJ Entertainment Inc., has acquired all rights for North America as a new addition to their high quality crime library. Their commitment extends to Season 2 subject to Network 10 confirmation of re-commission.  In addition Pay TV operator Viasat, part of Modern Times Group, have acquired the series for the whole of Scandinavia and will programme the series on their Viasat Crime channel. SPI Intil Film Box Channel have acquired Middle East and Africa, and Czech, Hungary and ex Yugoslavian states. The series will be aired on Filmbox Premium Movie channels across CEE.

The 13-part murder mystery series, produced by FremantleMedia Australia (FMA) in association with Bravado Productions, has been transmitting on Network TEN since 20 February to ratings consistently above the network slot average as well as extensive critical acclaim, with the final episode aired primetime on Wednesday 15 May.

Mr & Mrs Murder stars Shaun Micallef and Kat Stewart as Charlie and Nicola Buchanan, crime scene cleaners whose unique quirks and talents solve the most baffling murder mysteries. Through 13 one hour, self contained episodes, the series follows the pair as they pursue clever killers and misguided murderers into fascinating aspirational worlds of musical theatre, the seaside elite, high fashion, modern art, gourmet restaurants and hip hotels.

Nicky Davies Williams, CEO, DCD Rights, said: “Mr & Mrs Murder has delivered strong ratings and critical acclaim in Australia and we are delighted with the first international deals for the series which show US and European appetites for high quality witty drama from down under. We anticipate further deals to be announced soon and are delighted to have such a strong North American partner where we have had considerably success with our drama catalogue across all media and network”.

Mark Stevens, President, Acorn Brands, RLJ Entertainment, Inc., said “We are thrilled to be working with DCD to bring another highly-entertaining series to mystery lovers in North America. Mr & Mrs Murder’s innovative and witty approach will be an exciting addition to the genre.”

Jason Stephens, FMA Creative Director and Mr & Mrs Murder Co-Creator and Executive Producer, said “We are thrilled that North American and European audiences will have the chance to enjoy our unique take on the crime genre, and hope that it is as well received as it has been in Australia.”

DCD Rights’ drama catalogue includes award winning Australian drama such The Slap, The Straits, The Strange Calls, A Moody Christmas and Rake.