Fremantle has signed an exclusive first-look distribution deal with non-scripted producer, Astronaut Films.

Founded by BAFTA-nominated Jon Alwen, who previously held senior roles at Pulse Films, Lion TV and Voltage TV (credits include Inside Misguided: Made in Manchester (Channel 4); Countdown to Partition (BBC) and One Deadly Weekend in America (BBC)); the deal will see Astronaut Films produce a mix of specials and premium feature documentaries for the international and UK markets. Fremantle will distribute internationally.

Fremantle Senior Acquisitions Manager, International, Céire Clark, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Fremantle to invest in, and develop an exclusive distribution relationship with a fast-rising premium production company like Astronaut Films. Jon brings a wealth of experience in non-scripted production and I’m delighted to welcome him and Astronaut to the Fremantle family.”

CEO of Astronaut Films, Jon Alwen, said: “This is a brilliant deal for us, and I’m thrilled to be partnering with Fremantle. Astronaut has got off to a great start but we’re ambitious and want to expand quickly, Ceire and her team’s expertise and Fremantle’s reach will be instrumental in helping us do that”.

Since its launch last year, Astronaut Films has won a commissions including The Assassination of JFK for Channel 5, commissioned by Lucy Willis, Commissioning Editor (factual) – a dramatic retelling of the fateful events of November 22^nd, 1963, uniquely told from three different perspectives, featuring expert testimony and new insights into the death of JFK. Astronaut is currently in production on two series and advanced development on several projects for a range of global broadcasters.