Acclaimed Latin American writer Leonardo Padrón has signed a two-year alliance with Banijay Americas division, A Fábrica Mexico & U.S. Hispanic, launched in January this year. Move comes as the new scripted content unit ramps up its bid to produce widely appealing shows for the Spanish-speaking markets in Mexico, Latin America and the U.S.
Padrón is known for such gripping dramas as “The Marked Heart” (“Pálpito”) and “The Accident,” both high-ranking non-English hits on Netflix, where he had a three -year partnership that has since ended.
His movie credits include “Manuela Sáenz, the Liberator of the Liberator,” “The First Time” (“La primera vez”) and “Miranda.”
Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, he also penned the reboot of all-time telenovela hit “Rubi” for TelevisaUnivision among many other titles, and is an award-winning poet, essayist, columnist and chronicle writer. He was among the leading writers on Venezuelan television at its height, winning more than 25 awards for his work on such hit dramas as “Amores de fin de siglo,” “Contra viento y marea,” “Cosita rica” and “Eva Luna,” among others.
Leonardo Padrón Productions aims to develop bold, character-driven narratives in partnership with A Fábrica Mexico & U.S. Hispanic, launched earlier this year by Banijay Americas labels EndemolShine Boomdog and A Fábrica (Brazil).
“In addition to the Mexican and U.S. Hispanic markets, the venture will collaborate with Banijay Entertainment’s scripted companies across its 21-market footprint, be able to capitalize on the group’s central Scripted Fund, and benefit from its vast distribution engine, Banijay Rights,” the giant international producer-distributor announced.
“Forming an alliance with EndemolShine Boomdog and Banijay Entertainment allows us to build on the most powerful tool we have, collaboration. Further building our shared creative muscle, this partnership will enable us to craft cross-border stories which connect with global audiences,” said Padrón.
Alejandro Rincón, CEO, EndemolShine Boomdog remarked: “When establishing our new scripted division, Leonardo Padrón was the top choice to develop new projects with. His work is second-to-none in Latin America, across both TV and film, and his words resonate directly with audiences globally. Having Banijay Entertainment onboard reinforces our ambition to expand globally.”
The team at A Fábrica Mexico & U.S. Hispanic, led by Luiz Noronha and Rincón, is currently collaborating with Padrón on the development of several scripted drama series tailored for its target Spanish-speaking audiences. The first slate of projects is expected to hit the market later this year.
Said Frédéric Balmary, chief business officer, Banijay Entertainment: “As we grow our premium Spanish-language slate, this partnership offers an impressive opportunity to develop stories that reflect the Latin American identity while speaking to audiences everywhere. With the creative drive of A Fábrica Mexico & U.S. Hispanic, and the global reach of Banijay Entertainment, we are well-positioned to further bring Leonardo’s vision to the world.”
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