A New Chapter for Wag Entertainment

Fremantle Shuts Down Production Division

Wag Entertainment, a renowned British documentary producer, is facing significant changes. Fremantle, the parent company, has decided to close Wag's production division as part of a broader strategic plan following the acquisition of Asacha Media Group, Wag's former owner, last year.

Leadership Changes

• Steven Green, the managing director, is stepping down after 26 years.
• Co-founder Eliya Arman, creative director Bridget Boseley, production boss Kate Gibbard, and production manager Kelly Hood are also leaving.
• The number of layoffs is relatively small, in the single figures.

Notable Works

Over nearly three decades, Wag Entertainment has produced a variety of popular documentaries, including:

• "What On Earth?" on the Science Channel
• "Don't Date Brandon" on Paramount+
• "Murderer Behind the Mask" on Prime Video
• "Don't Pick up the Phone" (distributed through an innovative streaming model, with Paramount+ handling UK rights and Netflix covering the rest of the world)

Acquisitions and Future Plans

• Wag Entertainment was acquired by Asacha in 2021, leading to the departure of founder Martin Durkin.
• Fremantle has been planning the future of Asacha since its acquisition in 2024.
• Both Asacha founders have since exited.

Statements from Leadership

Steven Green expressed pride in the team's achievements, highlighting recent projects for Amazon, Paramount+, and several British broadcasters. He thanked all the freelancers and staff who contributed to Wag's success over the years.

Amelia Brown, CEO of Fremantle UK, acknowledged the team's hard work and contributions, wishing them well in their future endeavors.

Distribution Arm Continues

The distribution arm of Wag Entertainment, led by Janice Strangward, will continue to operate. Fremantle will retain the intellectual property (IP) of Wag's productions.