Warner Bros. Discovery, Singapore’s IMDA partner in unscripted formats

Warner Bros. Discovery and Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority have launched a partnership to jointly develop original, unscripted entertainment formats with global appeal.

The partnership kicks off with a masterclass series from December 3 to 4 at the Asia TV Forum & Market, part of the Singapore Media Festival 2025. Content managers from WBD’s Global and APAC Networks, together with Warner Bros. International Television Production, leading sessions on unscripted content development, storytelling and format globalization.

Following the masterclass, IMDA and WBD will open submissions for Singapore-based manufacturing companies. Selected projects will advance to an unscripted boot camp in early 2026, with potential co-production and premiere opportunities through WBD’s international networks in 2027. Successful formats may be included in WBITVP’s sales portfolio for broader distribution.

“This is where Singapore’s creative talent meets international expertise,” said Yvonne Tang, deputy director of IMDA’s Media Industry Group. “The masterclass will drive innovation and create co-production opportunities that showcase Singapore’s storytelling power to the world.”

Myriam Lopez-Otazu, senior VP of international unscripted content and global networks for EMEA at WBD, noted that the company’s unwritten list includes “Deadliest Catch,” “Property Brothers,” “Border Control” and “First Man Out.” “We are always looking for dynamic new ideas that complement our popular offerings and bring new stories to local and international audiences,” she said.

Lynn Ng, GVP and head of content for APAC Networks at WBD, added: “This new partnership with IMDA reflects a commitment to supporting the local creative industry, combining homegrown talent with WBD’s unrivaled, unscripted expertise. We look forward to welcoming producers to the ATF sessions next month and exploring new concepts as part of this initiative.”

WBD’s unscripted portfolio includes factual and factual entertainment titles such as “Body Bizarre,” “Wheeler Dealers,” “Marooned with Ed Stafford” and “Naked and Afraid.” Through WBITVP, the company has built global franchises including “The Bachelor,” “First Dates,” “Cash or Trash” and “Who Do You Think You Are?”, which have been produced in dozens of countries.