Global producer-distributor Fremantle is merging two of its UK-headquartered labels, Naked and Boundless, under the leadership of Naked’s recently appointed managing director, Fatima Salaria.
The merged prodco will retain the name Naked Television and will carry within its roster such unscripted series as the UK version of The Apprentice, The Rap Game UK, Grand Designs and 100% Hotter, and factual and specialist factual fare such as 60 Days on the Streets, The Day I Picked My Parents and Planet Sex, hosted by Cara Delevingne.
Neil Smith, managing director of Boundless, will be departing from the company. In a statement, he said his next step will include “developing content with a purpose.”
“Broad yet bold, populist yet progressive, with a stellar team and combined portfolio of both classic and cutting edge shows, the new Naked will represent a hallmark of both quality and innovation in the global unscripted universe,” said Simon Andreae, CEO of Fremantle UK and founder of the original Naked label.
“During his time here, Neil’s grown Boundless’ production portfolio, diversified its client base and consolidated its reputation as a leading supplier of world class programming. He leaves it in a strong position and with some exciting projects in the offing,” he added, regarding Smith.