Endemol Studios [Hell on Wheels (AMC), Kingdom (DirecTV)], Endemol North America’s independent scripted studio operation based in Los Angeles, has locked in writer Byron Balasco in their first writer overall deal of its kind. Balasco created and serves as showrunner of the upcoming Endemol Studios- produced one-hour family drama Kingdom. Under the two-year pact with Endemol Studios, Balasco will continue to serve as executive producer and showrunner of Kingdom while developing and supervising new projects for the studio. The character-driven family drama series, which is set against the backdrop of mixed martial arts (MMA), has a 10-episode commitment at DirecTV and stars Frank Grillo, Kiele Sanchez, Matt Lauria, Jonathan Tucker, Nick Jonas and Joanna Going. Kingdom premieres on October 8 at 9pm ET/ PT.
Byron Balasco
Philippe Maigret, CEO, Endemol Studios commented, “Byron Balasco is a supremely talented writer who has earned the admiration of everyone on our team with his signature brand of gritty, humorous, heartfelt writing. We knew we wanted to be in business with him under an exclusive deal just weeks into production on Kingdom. This first-of-its-kind deal for Endemol Studios underscores our commitment to aggressively pursue writers/producers looking to do their best work with a U.S. scripted studio that has a global footprint in over 30 countries and the resources to grow a brand internationally.”
Jeremy Gold, Executive Vice President, Creative Affairs, Endemol Studios said, “Byron is, quite simply, that writer/producer we all seek: his writing demonstrates a singular driven vision, distinctive in its ability to serve up a compelling story while delivering equal parts rich character-dimension, humor, and heart. Byron is a true creative partner in every sense who always displays grace under pressure. We are deeply committed to growing talented show runners here, and we are thrilled to partner with Byron in growing his business.”
Byron Balasco stated, “Endemol has been an incredible partner in making Kingdom. Philippe and Jeremy truly foster a creative and supportive environment for a writer and I am excited to continue creating shows with them.”
Balasco’s additional television credits as a writer and producer include
Detroit 1-8-7, Huff and Without a Trace.
