‘Scrabble’ Gameshow Rights Acquired by Fremantle in Global Deal

Fremantle has made a significant investment in the letter game, securing worldwide production and broadcasting rights for “Scrabble,” the popular television version of the classic Hasbro and Mattel board game. This spin-off on The CW network has been thriving since its debut in October.

The agreement grants Fremantle control over a popular format that has shone brightly for The CW during the 2024-25 television season. This American adaptation, hosted by Raven-Symoné, features competitors battling it out as word masters on an extra-large Scrabble board. Contestants progress through three rounds of word construction challenges to win cash prizes.

Acquiring this business is a strategic step for Fremantle, aiming to leverage the international revival of puzzle games. The firm emphasizes the emergence of influential personalities in the world of word games who boast large online fan bases.

Fremantle is thrilled about teaming up with the legendary game ‘Scrabble’. As we strive to broaden our worldwide reach, this collaboration represents a significant milestone for us,” said Michela DiMondo, Fremantle Canada’s executive VP of international distribution. “This partnership not only reinforces our dedication to producing captivating content that resonates globally but also highlights the potential successes when working with innovative partners like Hasbro Entertainment and Mattel.

Vasha Wallace, Fremantle’s executive vice president of global acquisitions and development, stated: “The ‘Scrabble’ television series is the ideal combination of what global broadcasters are seeking currently – established intellectual property and high viewer familiarity, paired with a highly affordable production approach.

Purchasing Scrabble significantly strengthens Fremantle’s collection of classic game show formats, adding it to other well-known titles like “The Price is Right,” “Deal or No Deal,” and “Family Feud.” Given Scrabble’s 80-year history, the sales of over 165 million sets worldwide, and its presence in more than 120 countries, the company anticipates that the game’s global familiarity will stimulate international adaptations.

I had the pleasure of being involved in the creation and production of the original U.S. format, which was masterminded by Hasbro Entertainment, Mattel Television Studios, and Lionsgate Alternative, specifically for The CW. David Garfinkle, Gabriel Marano, and Michelle Mendelovitz held the reins as executive producers during this process.

Fremantle intends to adapt the show for various global regions, confident that people from different parts of the world are eager to engage with a concept that’s proven successful in the United States.

Read More

2025-03-03 18:17