In an attempt to extend the brand name of the film magazine it acquired four years ago, Hachette-Filipacchi will be teaming with PBS to create a six- to eight-episode documentary series, “Premiere’s Great Minds of Hollywood,” as part of the pubcaster’s long-standing “Great Minds” skein. The series is expect to bow in September.
Hachette Prods., the production arm of the Paris-based magazine company, will co-finance the series, budgeted at about $2.5 million, along with Gotham-based TV producer Unapix.
Hachette is currently approaching Premiere advertisers to co-sponsor the project. They also hope to recoup costs on the back end when the series goes to video.
While there will be a project-based staff to write and produce the series, its content will come from the editorial staff at Premiere, according to Hachette Prods. prexy Michael Berman.
More spinoffs on the way
Spinoffs from Hachette magazines Car & Driver and Woman’s Day currently air on cable channel TNN. Hachette is in negotiations with E! Style for shows based on Elle Decor and Metropolitan Home.
In addition to the television shows, Hachette Prods. has a first-look deal with October Films.
The Premiere project was brought to Hachette VP of entertainment John Hughes by Unapix exec VP of Tim Smith.
