Ringside Media, the investment arm of Newen-backed indie Ringside Studios, has announced its third major investment by acquiring a stake in Further South Productions from Lionsgate.

Further South, founded by ex-ITV drama boss Steve November, was previously part of the Lionsgate group and was born out of November’s tenure as Creative Director of its TV division.

Sarah Conroy will continue alongside November in her role as Executive Producer.

November said: “To be joining Ringside in the early days of their development is a fantastic opportunity. They have all the knowledge and experience to help Further South grow and we are really looking forward to working with the group to help realise our shared ambitions for English language drama.

Both Ringside Media and Ringside Studios were founded by producer and former commissioner Gub Neal (The Fall, Queer as Folk) and European media company and distributor Newen

Neal said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Steve and Sarah into the Ringside group. Steve brings with him a wide range of production experience as well as a highly successful background in commissioning, and we are really looking forward to collaborating with their considerable talents across the group”.

Philippe Levasseur, Newen’s Head of International, said “Steve has a wealth of experience developing drama for domestic and international markets. He has a rare combination of talents, having overseen some of the most commercially successful UK shows, and then producing high-end series. We are delighted to welcome him in the Newen team, as part of our plan to expand the network of British talents we are building around Ringside Studios.”

Ringside Media was established in 2020 as part of parent company Newen’s strategy to expand into the English-speaking scripted market. The boutique investment fund, aims to make bespoke investments and partnerships with companies looking for the benefits of a larger international and domestic network. The companies will all work closely with Newen Connect, Newen’s distribution arm. Ringside Media announced investments into Fictionhouse and Slate Entertainment earlier this year.

Picture: Ringside Studios and Leonis Productions’ upcoming Apple TV+ show “Liaison”

Jon Creamer

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