‘Shaolin Heroes’, Martial Arts Format From Denmark, Lands First International Adaptations

EXCLUSIVE: Banijay Entertainment‘s adventure reality format Shaolin Heroes has kung fu-kicked its way on to networks in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Banijay Benelux has struck a deal with broadcaster VTM for a version of the Danish show in Belgium, and RTL Nederlands has handed SimpelZodiak, another Banijay production house, a greenlight in the Netherlands.

The deals mark the first international adaptations for the format, which was originally created by Banijay’s Danish label Metronome for local broadcaster TV2 last year.

The format sees celebrities embark on a transformational journey to master the ancient martial art of the Shaolin warrior monks. Under the guidance of two Shaolin masters, they face intense trials that test their mental and physical boundaries.

In Denmark, where Season 1 surpassed its prime-time slot average by 31%, a second season is set to launch later this month.

Banijay Belgium is behind local versions of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Hunted Fear Factor and travel format Starstruck, while SimpelZodiak has a slate including Good Luck Guys, Hunted, Survivor, SAS: Who Dares Wins, Temptation Island and fact-ent format Banged Up.

“Metronome’s Shaolin Heroesis an adventure reality format unlike any other, taking the audience on an immersive and transformational journey,” said Isabelle Dams, Managing Director at Banijay Belgium. “Bringing this unique format to Belgium with VTM is an exciting step, and we know viewers will be enticed by its intensity.”

Justine Huffmeijer, Managing Director at SimpelZodiak, added: “Shaolin Heroes is a bold and unique format which respectfully highlights the Shaolin tradition. Enjoying a solid performance in Denmark, we are eager to launch the Dutch version and watch these celebrities embark on this challenging, yet rewarding experience.”

Shaolin Heroes was a Deadline Hot One for MIPCOM in October, with Banijay’s Chief Creative Officer, Development, James Townley saying Townley it had “all the makings of a traveling success” thanks to “responsible story-making at its heart, relatable celebrities and authentic representation of the Shaolin community, paired with stunning visual effects and the production know-how of our teams.” Looks like we picked well.

“This premium adventure reality series is a testament to the creativity and ambition of the Metronome team, blending stunning scenery and human endurance,” said Tina Christensen, Managing Director at Metronome today “Shaolin Heroes has all the key elements to captivate global audiences and it’s exciting to see this original format expanding its international footprint, while returning here in Denmark for another thrilling season.”

The deal comes ahead of Banijay’s London TV Screenings event later this month.