StudioCanal invests in Brock Media as part of strategic pact

StudioCanal has taken a minority stake in Sarah Brocklehurst’s Brock Media as part of a strategic partnership to develop the indie’s slate of TV and films, Broadcast understands.

It is understood the European Studio has the right to buy more shares over time to get to a majority stake, as well as taking a first look on distribution of Brock’s TV and film projects.

Under the act, the indie’s head of TV development Sophie Mitchell will work closely with StudioCanal managing director of television for StudioCanal M-K Kennedy and her team.

London-based Brock Media previously had a three-year development deal with BBC Studios, which expired in January. BBCS had had the option to take an equity stake in the outfit, but did not do so.

Brock Media was founded in 2022 and is behind the Saoirse Ronan film The Outrun, which StudioCanal supported. It also has a development slate of 18 TV series – including adaptations of Poorna Bell’s novel In Case of Emergency and Andreina Cordani’s The Twelve Days of Murder – and has recently produced an audio drama adaptation of Pride & Prejudice for Audible which will be released on 9 September, starring Marisa Abela, Harris Dickinson, Will Poulter, Jessie Buckley, Bill Nighy and Glenn Close.

StudioCanal chief exec and chief content officer of Canal+ Anna Marsh and Kennedy said: “We greatly admire Sarah’s passion for producing bold and often female driven stories such as The Outrun which feel important and inspiring in addition to taking an innovative approach to creating IP.

“We now look forward to fully supporting Sarah in growing the Brock Media slate furthering her ambition to produce world class films and TV series for UK and international audiences.”

Brocklehurst, whose previous credits include feature films Animals and Black Pond, added: “Having worked together on The Outrun, I know that StudioCanal are the perfect partner for Brock Media as we embark on the next chapter.

“We share cultural alignment, passion for cinema and commitment to producing great stories for international audiences. I’m looking forward to working with Anna Marsh, M-K Kennedy and their brilliant teams to generate many more successes across film and series in the years to come.”

Helion Partners advised Brock Media on the transaction.