France Televisions controls BBC Zelensky Docuseries

France TV has signed a production deal with Fremantle for the BBC docuseries ‘Zelensky’ (working title).

The documentary series, from Fremantle’s 72 Films, is being made in collaboration with The Open University and features interviews with both the Ukrainian leader and his wife, as well as on-the-ground footage as Ukraine battles to retain its independence in its assault on Russia.

“Zelensky provides an unfiltered and personal look at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s astonishing transformation from comedian to iconic war hero,” the logline reads. “The docuseries explores Zelensky’s transformation from comedic actor to calculating war commander, artfully combining his performing skills in his speeches and monopolizing the media conversation to become one of the most recognized leaders in the world.”

The three-part series will air on BBC Two and iPlayer in Britain this fall, while France Télévisions will debut a shorter 70-minute version later this year as part of the documentary series Le Monde En Face on France 5 and france.tv.

David Glover produces 72 films and Michael Waldman directs. Fremantle represents the worldwide rights to the series.

“It is always a pleasure to work with the talented teams at France Télévisions and our colleagues at 72 Films on another bold and compelling series,” said Al De Azpiazu, senior VP of distribution for French-speaking Europe, Italy, Spain and Portugal at Fremantle. “Each episode provides incredible access and deep insight into Zelensky’s personal and political journey from those closest to him. At Fremantle we are committed to telling powerful stories and we are excited to share them with audiences in France and around the world.”

Caroline Behar of France Télévisions said: “France Télévisions is proud to be collaborating on ‘Zelensky’ with long-time partner Fremantle, and the exceptionally talented 72 films we collaborated with in 2020 on ‘The Trump Show’. public broadcaster, our mission is to support creative content that decodes historical events and current affairs to give our audiences the keys to understanding the present. ‘Zelensky’ will take an intimate look at the Ukrainian president and portray different facets of this complex character, from his debut as an actor to his role as the leader of a country at war, embroiled in a conflict with global consequences. We are thrilled to rediscover the uncompromising style of 72 Films in this fresh, modern series.”