BBC Worldwide buys minority stake in Baby Cow

by Jacquie Bowser, Brand Republic 16-Sep-08, 10:50

LONDON - BBC Worldwide has acquired a minority share in Baby Cow, the production company behind TV comedies 'The Mighty Boosh' and 'Gavin and Stacey', for an undisclosed sum.

Baby Cow, headed up by Henry Normal and British comedian Steve Coogan, will retain full control of the company.

The deal builds on a long-standing relationship between the two companies that has seen BBC Worldwide distribute Baby Cow properties around the world for almost nine years.

BBC Worldwide will continue distributing Baby Cow's catalogue, as well as develop local production opportunities through its global production network, and manage Baby Cow brands internationally.

Normal, joint managing director of Baby Cow, said: "We looked at a number of options to move Baby Cow forward and BBC Worldwide was head and shoulders above the rest in terms of understanding what we do and how to build upon it.

"I'm very excited about working closer with BBC Worldwide and bringing to Baby Cow the vast expertise and experience they can offer."

Baby Cow's productions include 'Gavin & Stacey', 'The Mighty Boosh', 'Nighty Night', 'Sensitive Skin' and 'Saxondale', which stars Coogan.

Helen Jackson, BBC Worldwide director of independents, who brokered the deal, said: "BBC Worldwide has been working with Baby Cow for nearly a decade, in which time they have become one of the world's most innovative and successful producers.

"We're thrilled to be building on our partnership in this way. They really fly the flag for British comedy and I can't wait to see how they will continue to break new ground."