London – NBC Universal announced its agreement to acquire Carnival Film & Television Ltd, a leading UK independent production company. The deal represents the first acquisition by NBC Universal’s International TV Production division, headed by Angela Bromstad, president, international TV production. The acquisition is part of the company’s efforts to expand its international business by building production presence outside the US. The announcement was made by Peter Smith, president, NBC Universal International; Angela Bromstad; and Gareth Neame, CEO, Carnival. Carnival was founded in 1978 and has produced 400 hours of popular drama for TV and cinema. Carnival’s clients have included major UK broadcasters such as the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Sky. Under the terms of the agreement, NBC Universal will acquire 100% of the company, whose current shareholders are Southern Star (75%) and Gareth Neame, CEO of Carnival (25%). NBC Universal’s acquisition also includes library rights to Carnival titles, as well as distribution rights currently held by Southern Star. Smith commented, “This exciting agreement represents a further step towards our goal of complementing our quality brands with the capacity to produce quality, compelling local TV content with global appeal.” On completion of the transaction, Carnival will be merged into NBC Universal’s International TV Production division which is based in London.