Johannes Jensen’s Vision for Sustainable Growth and Innovation: Insights from MIPCOM on New TV and IP Strategies

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October 13, 2025

Paris – Johannes Jensen, a veteran television executive with a career spanning over three decades, is central to Banijay Entertainment’s aspiring plans for scripted content. jensen, alongside Steve Matthews, is navigating a complex media landscape with a focus on fostering creativity and securing sustainable growth for the global production giant.

From ‘Survivor’ Origins to Banijay’s Helm

Jensen’s journey in the television industry began in 1992 at Strix Television in Sweden, where he played a pivotal role in the creation of the original “Survivor” format, initially known as “Expedition: Robinson” in 1997. His career trajectory led him to leadership positions at Jarowskij and yellow Bird, which now operate as Jarowskij/Yellow Bird under the Banijay umbrella. Banijay’s expansive portfolio includes globally recognized franchises such as “Survivor,” “Black Mirror,” “Peaky Blinders,” “MasterChef,” and “Big Brother.”

A Dual Approach to Scripted Content

Early this year, Jensen’s role expanded to Head of Scripted, Business, reporting to Chief Business Officer Frédéric Balmary.He now collaborates closely with Steve Matthews, Head of Scripted, Creative, to support and enhance Banijay’s network of over 60 production labels. Their combined expertise aims to uplift scripted slates through strategic co-production, navigating industry shifts, and driving long-term expansion.

“We see ourselves not as the ones that point out the direction or prescribe the future for the labels,but rather the ones nurturing the talents,the creativity,supporting where we think we can,” Jensen explained,highlighting a hands-off approach that encourages independent creative vision. Matthews focuses on the creative aspects, engaging directly with script advancement, while Jensen concentrates on financing strategies and global market analysis, creating a complementary partnership.

Banijay’s Production Powerhouse

Banijay’s output is ample. The company has produced over 1,000 hours of scripted content encompassing more than 100 titles in recent years, establishing itself as the leading scripted studio in Europe. This notable output demonstrates Banijay’s commitment to delivering a diverse range of high-quality programming to audiences worldwide.

Did You Know? The global scripted content market is projected to reach $359.90 billion by 2029, highlighting the immense potential for growth and innovation in the industry.

Prioritizing Creativity and Collaboration

Jensen emphasizes a dedication to bold and innovative storytelling. “We always say that we put creativity first.We want bold, new stories,” he stated. A key component of their strategy involves fostering collaboration between the various production labels within the Banijay ecosystem, facilitating knowledge sharing and funding opportunities. This collaborative environment aims to unlock new possibilities and accelerate development.

The company is also focused on sustainable growth,prioritizing strategic investments over rapid expansion. “We’re not going to be over-investing. We’re not deficit funding in a lot of things,” Jensen affirmed, underscoring a responsible approach to financial management.

Key Markets and Streamer Partnerships

Currently, the united Kingdom, Italy, and Spain represent Banijay’s strongest markets, with France, Germany, and the Nordic region also contributing significantly to its success. The company is increasingly focused on partnerships with global streamers, recognizing their growing influence in the entertainment industry.

Here’s a snapshot of Banijay’s key markets and content output:

Market	Content Focus	Recent Productions
United Kingdom	High-end Drama, Returning Series	Bergerac, SAS: Rogue Heroes
Italy	Character-Driven Drama, Legal Thrillers	the Law According to Lidia Poët
Spain	Teen Drama, Movie Trilogies	Culpa trilogy, Our Fault
France	Past Dramas	Montmartre

Upcoming Projects and the Future of Scripted TV

At MIPCOM, Banijay is showcasing a diverse slate of projects, including returning hits like House of Guinness (Netflix) and The Buccaneers (Apple TV+), as well as new offerings such as the historical drama Montmartre and the concluding film in the Culpa trilogy for Prime Video. A notable upcoming series is Half Man, a co-production between the BBC and HBO starring richard Gadd and Jamie bell, exploring complex familial relationships.

Looking ahead, Jensen acknowledges the challenges of financing high-end drama in the current market but remains optimistic about the long-term sustainability of premium content. He also highlighted the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a supportive tool for creatives,rather than a replacement for human artistry.

Pro Tip: Staying adaptable and embracing new technologies,like AI,will be crucial for success in the evolving television industry.

“Sustainable growth is something super important for us,” Jensen concluded. “It means staying ambitious, but being smart, balancing risk and funding and having the focus on creativity.”

The television industry is undergoing a period of significant transformation, driven by the rise of streaming services, changing consumer preferences, and technological advancements. Companies like Banijay are adapting by prioritizing creative collaborations, sustainable growth strategies, and embracing new technologies. The focus on diverse storytelling and global partnerships will be pivotal in shaping the future of scripted content.

Frequently Asked Questions about banijay’s Scripted Content Strategy

• What is Banijay’s primary focus for scripted content? Banijay prioritizes creativity, co-production, and sustainable growth within its network of over 60 production labels.
• Which regions are key markets for Banijay? The U.K., Italy, and Spain are currently Banijay’s dominant markets, with France, Germany, and the Nordics also being strong contributors.
• How is Banijay approaching partnerships with streaming services? banijay views streamers as complementary to traditional broadcasters and is actively pursuing collaborations with major platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Prime Video.
• What role does Johannes Jensen play at Banijay? Johannes Jensen serves as Head of Scripted, Business, overseeing financing strategies and global market analysis.
• Is Banijay investing in Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Yes, Banijay is exploring AI as a tool to support creatives, but not as a replacement for human storytelling.
• What kind of stories is Banijay looking to tell? Banijay prioritizes bold, new stories that are rooted in local narratives and resonate with global audiences.
• How does Banijay ensure sustainable growth? Banijay focuses on strategic investments, responsible financial management, and fostering collaboration among its production labels.

What are your thoughts on the future of scripted television? Share your opinions in the comments below!

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How does Johannes Jensen's strategy at Boat Rocker Media differ from customary television models reliant on licensed content?

Johannes Jensen's Vision for Lasting Growth and Innovation: Insights from MIPCOM on New TV and IP Strategies

The Shift Towards Long-Term Value in content Investment

Johannes Jensen, known for his strategic leadership at companies like Nordic Entertainment Group (NENT group) and now at Boat Rocker Media, consistently advocates for a move away from short-term gains in the television and IP landscape. His presentations at MIPCOM 2024 (and echoed in previews for MIPCOM 2025) highlighted a critical need for sustainable growth in the streaming era, emphasizing quality over quantity and a focus on building enduring brands. This isn't simply about producing more content; it's about strategically investing in intellectual property (IP) that can generate revenue across multiple platforms and over extended periods.

Deconstructing the Boat Rocker Media Strategy: A Focus on IP Ownership

Boat Rocker Media,under Jensen's direction,exemplifies this approach. The company's core strategy revolves around acquiring and developing IP with global appeal. This differs significantly from the previous model of relying heavily on licensed content. Key elements of this strategy include:

* Vertical Integration: controlling the entire value chain - from creation and production to distribution and merchandising - maximizes revenue potential.

* Global Co-Productions: Partnering with international broadcasters and streamers reduces risk and expands market reach. This is notably crucial for international content and reaching diverse audiences.

* Exploiting Multi-Platform Rights: Jensen stresses the importance of securing rights not just for traditional television, but also for streaming, digital platforms, gaming, and consumer products. This includes leveraging ancillary revenue streams.

* Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing audience data to inform content development and distribution strategies, ensuring projects resonate with target demographics.

The Importance of Genre Diversification & Format Innovation

Jensen's MIPCOM talks consistently pointed to the need for diversification beyond the dominant genres of high-end drama. While prestige television remains critically important, he argues for a broader portfolio that includes:

* Unscripted Formats: Reality TV, game shows, and documentaries offer lower production costs and potential for long-running success. The focus is on format sales and creating globally adaptable concepts.

* Children's & Family Content: This segment provides a stable revenue stream and opportunities for merchandising and licensing. boat Rocker's acquisition of companies like Jam Filled Entertainment demonstrates this commitment.

* Animation: A growing market with significant potential for IP development and global distribution.

* hybrid Models: Combining scripted and unscripted elements to create unique and engaging content.

Navigating the Changing Landscape of TV Revenue Models

The traditional television revenue model is undergoing a radical change.Jensen outlined several key shifts:

1. Decline of Linear TV: While not disappearing entirely, linear television is losing viewership to streaming services.
2. Rise of AVOD & FAST Channels: Advertising-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) and Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) channels are gaining traction,offering new revenue opportunities.
3. Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Strategies: Building direct relationships with audiences through streaming platforms and digital channels.
4. The Bundling Trend: Streaming services are increasingly exploring bundling options to increase subscriber retention and average revenue per user (ARPU).

These changes necessitate a more flexible and diversified approach to revenue generation. Content monetization strategies must adapt to the evolving consumer landscape.

Case Study: The Next Step - A Prosperous IP Franchise

Boat Rocker's success with The Next Step, a dance-focused franchise, illustrates Jensen's vision in action. Originally a YouTube series, it expanded into a television show, live tours, and a range of merchandise. This demonstrates the power of building a strong brand and exploiting IP across multiple platforms. The franchise's longevity and continued success are a testament to the value of long-term investment and audience engagement.

Practical tips for Content Creators & Distributors

Based on Jensen's insights, here are some actionable takeaways:

* Prioritize IP Ownership: Focus on creating and acquiring IP that you control.

* Think globally: Develop content with international appeal.

* Diversify Revenue Streams: Explore opportunities beyond traditional television advertising.

* Embrace Data Analytics: Use data to inform your content strategy.

* Be Flexible & Adaptable: The television landscape is constantly changing, so be prepared to adjust your approach.

* focus on Brand Building: Create recognizable and engaging brands that resonate with audiences.

The Future of TV: A Sustainable Ecosystem

Jensen's vision isn't just about maximizing profits; it's about creating a sustainable ecosystem for the television industry.By prioritizing quality, innovation, and long-term value,