London – Warner Bros. International Television Production has acquired the format rights to distribute BBC One’s brand new quiz show, The Link.
BBC One has commissioned 25 episodes for a daytime slot. The show is being produced by STV Productions in association with LTV with production starting later this month.
Over the course of 45 minutes, The Link sees three teams race against time to find the link between questions. It’s a game that rewards daring, strategy and teamwork – guess the connections, break the links, win money – it’s simple.
“We know that great game shows are back at the top of broadcasters’ wish lists. The Link is that rare thing — an original new quiz show with a strong identity in terms of both its game play and visual elements, commissioned in a key market. Our excitement is shared by Mike Darnell and his team at the Warner Bros. Television Group, who will be bringing it to market in the U.S.,” commented Andrew Zein, SVP, Creative, Format Development and Sales, Warner Bros. International Television Production.
Alan Clements, director of content for STV Production, said: “STV Productions has a proven track record in entertainment and we are excited to be partnering with LTV on The Link. It is both STV’s and LTV’s first opportunity to work with BBC Daytime in this genre. This exciting new format rewards strategy, teamwork and quick thinking, and will keep both contestants and viewers on the edge of their seats. We are also thrilled to be working with Warner Bros. International Television Production in a deal that brings a fantastic opportunity for The Link to reach new audiences worldwide.”
Controller of BBC Daytime Damian Kavanagh, who commissioned the series, said: “The Link appealed to us because of its innovative question style and challenging game play. Mark Williams will give the show a different flavour which we hope will delight the audience.”
The U.K. version of the show will be presented by actor Mark Williams (Harry Potter franchise). Gary Chippington is executive producer for STV Productions, Jo Street is executive producer for BBC and Paul Johnson is executive producer for LTV and Tuvalu Entertainment Ltd.
STV developed the format with LTV, a partnership of Paul Johnson from Tuvalu Entertainment and former ‘Ad Men’ turned game developers, Tristan Hyatt-Williams, Ben Drummond and Dean Tempest — the team behind one of the UK’s most innovative new board games, Linkee®.
