Alex Avon: "We have fantastic non-verbal, physical comedy with universal themes that travel nicely to all regions"

With a refreshed brand identity and a rapidly expanding global footprint, Just For Laughs continues to strengthen its position as one of the leading names in comedy entertainment.  In conversation with Señal News, Alex Avon, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at Just For Laughs, discusses the strategy behind JFL Distribution’s continued growth, its ambitions in Latin America, and how the universal language of comedy transcends borders.

What are some of the standout titles or series that JFL Distribution has recently launched or distributed?
"Just For Laughs is excited to present two new seasons of our flagship comedy shows 'Just For Laughs LOL' Season 12 and 'Just For Laughs Gags' Season 26, along with an English-language dubbed version of our multi-award-winning dramedy 'About Antoine'."

Can you highlight any recent collaborations or partnerships that have been instrumental in expanding JFL Distribution's reach?
"We have been expanding with FAST channels and partnerships such as with Stingray which will emphasize audio content. We have now have over 30 FAST channels around the globe and continue to expand."

How does JFLD approach content distribution across different regions? Are there specific strategies tailored to each market?
"We are fortunate to have fantastic non-verbal, physical comedy with universal themes that travel nicely to all regions: 'Just For Laughs LOL' and 'Just For Laughs Gags' itself are in over 150 territories already. We choose programs for distribution specifically that can travel well to most parts of the world, and comedy is welcome most places."

With "About Antoine" available on Netflix in LatAm and sales like “LOL :)” to Uruguay, is JFLD targeting other specific Latin American regions or platforms next?
"Latin America is a major region for Just For Laughs, we are attending MIP Cancun to meet with LatAm broadcasters and production companies. We are also looking at possibly launching JFL FAST channels in the region. And all our trailers are dubbed into Spanish which shows our commitment to the region.

Beyond your new motto “Spreading laughter across the globe” how does JFLD envision evolving its brand identity and creative mission over the next 3–5 years?
"We have already evolved quite a bit from just two years ago when we rebranded from ComediHa! and then last year we acquired the Just For Laughs incredibly renowned global brand through which we continue to expand in comedy content programming and live events. As always, we will continue to provide premium comedy and feel-good content to international broadcasters and streamers as well as continue to launch our FAST and OTT channels around the globe."