Factual
GRB Media Ranch announces format and factual deals with African exhibitors
Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch CEO Gary R Benz has announced several format and factual program deals with African exhibitors, brokered by GRB Media Ranch sales executive Liz Levenson. The first international format sale ever of GRB Studios’ long-running series, Untold Stories of the E.R., has been licensed to Khelgejo for production in Africa. The 150-plus-episode docuseries has been licensed into 200-plus countries over its 20-year life.
Untold Stories of E.R., licensed to Khelgejo for production in Africa, showcases intense true stories demonstrating the dramatic nature of medicine practiced under pressure, where every moment can be a turning point. See how a doctor’s personal blend of expertise, coolness under fire, and decision-making ability are challenged by unpredictable circumstances and unexpected conditions.
Blind Dating was licensed to production company Aby Media for production in Africa: Swipe right on the person of your dreams in this studio-based dating game show! Blind Dating creates perfect matches between three single men and three single women. In each episode, without seeing each other, the participants must find their love match by simply answering questions while digging for clues – and some dirt – on social media. Watch these singles try to impress, get picked, and go home with a mate. A hit show in French Canada for many years.
Wild Zambezi was licensed to Ster Kinekor for theatrical release in South Africa and sold to The Africa Channel for worldwide distribution, excluding Africa. The series consists of eight 60-minute episodes, exploring the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia and highlighting the challenges posed by the encroachment of civilization. This development reflects the broader existential crisis facing vulnerable ecosystems worldwide.
Relative Justice, a court program, was licensed to VIU for Africa for seasons one and two, each consisting of 150 episodes of 30 minutes: Family drama is common, often surfacing as arguments around the dinner table. Usually, these disagreements are harmless, sometimes even humorous. However, when family conflicts escalate, especially over money, they can become destructive. *Relative Justice* is a daily arbitration-based reality court show where judge Rhonda Wills handles these family disputes.
Benz stated: “GRB Media Ranch is pleased to announce our African formats and factual program deals with new clients including The Africa Channel, Ster Kinekor, VIU, and Aby Media. We continue to acquire program of broad but targeted interest, and we are especially excited about the first international format sale to Khelgejo Productions of our GRB Studios’ created show, Untold Stories of the E.R. and to see a locally produced version in Africa. As we say, at GRB Media Ranch, we’ve got stories!”
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
