ITV Sells ‘Ludwig,’ Brings Back ‘Malpractice’ and Finds a New Unscripted Partner in China – London TV Screenings/MIP London Briefs

Jamie Lang ITV Studios has announced a series of international sales for the hit detective comedy “Ludwig,” which will air in 85 markets worldwide. Produced by Big Talk Studios and co-produced with That Mitchell and Webb Company, the series was the BBC’s biggest new scripted show of 2024, attracting over 9.5 million viewers. The show has been acquired by major broadcasters, including ZDF in Germany, SVT in Sweden, and BBC First in Africa.

In the Asia Pacific region, “Ludwig” will premiere in Australia, New Zealand and Japan, among other territories. Season one will debut in the U.S. and Canada on BritBox on March 20.

ITV Studios and Zhejiang Media Group have partnered to co-develop unscripted content for local and global markets. With Zhejiang’s expertise in high-end non-scripted shows and ITV’s global reach through hits like “The Voice” and “Hell’s Kitchen,” the collaboration aims to create fresh formats. The first project, “Go! Fishing!,” will be revealed in the coming months.

Both companies aim to tap into global demand for new formats that reflect diverse cultures. The deal was facilitated by ITV’s Augustus Dulgaro and Zoe Tsui, with a 2025 launch expected for the co-developed concepts. ITV’s hit drama “Malpractice” returns for its highly anticipated second series in Spring 2025.

The thriller, created by former NHS doctor Grace Ofori-Attah, sees the return of Helen Behan and Jordan Kouamé as Dr. Norma Callahan and Dr. George Adjei, who investigate a doctor accused of malpractice.

Joining the cast are Tom Hughes, Selin Hizli and Zoë Telford. The show follows Dr. James Ford (Hughes), whose tragic mistake sparks an investigation by the Medical Investigation Unit.