Schitt’s Creek

Brand licensing and merchandising agency Merchantwise Licensing has been appointed by ITV Studios to represent hit Canadian comedy Schitt’s Creek in Australia and New Zealand.

“We are pleased to commence this licensing partnership with ITV Studios – Schitt’s Creek enjoys great broadcast success in Australia and New Zealand across Netflix, ABC Comedy and Foxtel. With its historic nine Emmy awards last year, two Golden Globes wins and two Critics’ Awards in 2021 Schitt’s Creek combines great comedic storytelling with fabulous characters and an impressive cast line-up which will ensure its Australian and New Zealand retail licensing success,” said Merchantwise Licensing’s GM Kerryn McCormack in a statement.

Notably, Merchantwise Licensing has already secured support from Caprice Australia for apparel, footwear, headwear, bags, fabrics and cushions. As well, Merch Mother is also on board and will develop products across categories such as homewares, gifts and apparel.

Further, the agency is also seeking opportunities across other categories such as consumer electronics, food and beverage, gardening and outdoor, room décor, personal care, puzzles and games, consumer promotions, stationery and paper goods.

Boat Rocker Studios

Boat Rocker Studios has acquired the international distribution rights to the two-part documentary Covid America. Produced by the Audio Drama Initiative, the project, which was filmed across eight states over a two-week period, takes an in-depth look at how the pandemic has affected the lives of Americans. It is directed by Mitchell Maxwell and Hiatt Woods and produced by Mitchell Maxwell, Monty Hobbs, Carl Vorwerk and Valerie Smaldone.

Gusto TV

Gusto TV is launching on another U.S.-based digital platform. The food and lifestyle brand has inked a deal with TVPlayer US, a recently launched SVOD service owned by Alchimie. Gusto shows launching on TVPlayer US include Cook Like a Chef, Flour Power and Crate to Plate. TVPlayer, which has rolled out in the U.K., France and Spain in recent months, offers around 30 English-language channels across drama, reality, sport, lifestyle and kids.