Content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment has announced two formats set to debut at the exclusive London TV Screenings event, Banijay BAFTA 195 Piccadilly. The company introduced "Football Island", a unique fusion of sports, survival, and competition reality, while also unveiling "Date on Stage", a fresh and humorous dating show that puts romance in the spotlight.
"Football Island", created by SimpelZodiak (part of Banijay Benelux), marks the first co-production between SimpelZodiak and Banijay Benelux label Southfields, the largest sports production company in the Netherlands. The format will debut in the Netherlands, featuring 13 legendary footballers dropped into a remote tropical location where they must battle the elements and each other in football-inspired challenges. Stripped of their status and comfort, the players test their strategy, endurance, and rivalries in a raw and unscripted adventure.
"'Football Island' is a one-of-a-kind concept bringing legendary footballers back into the heat of fierce competition. This is more than just a game – it's also a test of strategy, and endurance," said Justine Huffmeijer, Managing Director at SimpelZodiak. James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development at Banijay Entertainment, added: "'Football Island’s' electrifying fusion of genres will appeal to sports and entertainment fans alike, offering an intense, character-driven reality format."
On the dating front, "Date on Stage", produced by Banijay Benelux label TwentyTwo, offers a bold twist on blind dating. Commissioned by Omroep Zwart for NPO Start and NPO3, the show sees singles embark on blindfolded dates with two potential matches — live on stage in front of an audience. Guided only by conversation and instinct, participants are joined by two quick-witted comedian cupids who inject humor and unpredictability into the experience.
Both titles join Banijay Entertainment’s format line-up for the London TV Screenings, which also includes "Against All Odds", "Mission Unknown: Atlantic", "The Rest of Your Life", "AI Love You", and "30 Days and 30 Dates". These additions underscore Banijay Entertainment’s commitment to delivering dynamic and innovative content across genres, with a growing focus on sports and entertainment formats.