| MUMBAI:
Endemol has acquired the global distribution rights from Jerry Seinfeld and his
partner Ellen Rakieten (The Oprah Winfrey Show) for their newly created comedy-reality
show The Marriage Ref. The
Marriage Ref has been commissioned for a prime time run of six hour-long episodes
on NBC after the Olympics in March 2010.
Endemol
will distribute the format across all platforms outside USA and will also produce
local versions of the show around the world. Endemol will also globally distribute
the NBC series, which is being executive produced by Jerry Seinfeld and Ellen
Rakieten. "This
is not a therapy show, it's a comedy show. After nine years of marriage I have
discovered that the comedic potential of this subject is quite rich," said
Seinfeld. Endemol
Group CCO Tom Toumazis says, "We are excited to have the opportunity to work
with a worldwide legend of Jerry Seinfeld's status. This is without doubt the
most significant third party distribution deal Endemol has secured since we announced
our intention to grow this part of our business last year." The
show will feature celebrities, comedians, sports personalities and international
stars who will comment, judge and offer different strategies to real-life couples
in the midst of a classic marital dispute. | 
