In just a year since joining Studiocanal as the executive managing director of TV series, M-k Kennedy has significantly advanced the scripted content strategy of this prominent French pay-TV production company. Formerly with Netflix, Kennedy has overseen Studiocanal's inaugural in-house international series, which achieved remarkable success across various platforms. Now, she shares exclusive insights with Variety about the commencement of filming for the eagerly awaited second season of the anthology series, set to traverse multiple international locations.
Under the leadership of M-k Kennedy, Studiocanal marked a significant milestone with its first internally produced global series. The show, titled "Paris Has Fallen," garnered impressive ratings on Canal+ and topped charts on Amazon U.K. and Hulu in the United States. This success laid the groundwork for the next phase of the anthology, "Apollo Has Fallen." The second season is currently in production and will feature an expansive narrative journeying through several countries, including Libya and Spain. The ambitious project involves principal photography across the U.K., Marta, and Spain, showcasing the growing scale and ambition of Studiocanal’s productions.
The series benefits from a collaborative effort between Studiocanal and other leading production entities such as Urban Myth Films, Millenium, and G-Base, all instrumental in the success of "Paris Has Fallen." With rights sold to over 170 territories globally, the first season established itself as a benchmark for international appeal and quality storytelling. This new installment promises even greater reach and impact, reflecting Kennedy's vision and strategic direction for expanding Studiocanal's global footprint.
Kennedy's influence extends beyond mere oversight; it embodies a transformative approach that aligns Studiocanal with the demands of today's global audience. By incorporating diverse settings and narratives, the anthology not only captivates viewers but also enhances Studiocanal's reputation as a leader in high-quality scripted content. As the second season progresses, it continues to build upon the legacy of its predecessor while pushing boundaries further into uncharted creative territory.
M-k Kennedy's tenure at Studiocanal signifies a new era of innovation and expansion within the scripted content domain. Through her leadership, the company embarks on an ambitious journey to redefine what global television series can achieve. With "Apollo Has Fallen" underway, audiences worldwide eagerly anticipate another groundbreaking chapter in Studiocanal's storied history, underscoring the brand's commitment to excellence and its evolving role in the international media landscape.