Warner Bros. International Prepares Diverse Programming for MIPCOM 2026

Warner Bros. International Television Production (WBITVP) is gearing up for MIPCOM 2026 with a programming slate that encompasses a variety of gripping narratives, from personal explorations to unsolved mysteries. Central to the lineup is Wall to Wall’s Buried with Michael Sheen (2 x 60’), where the acclaimed actor delves into a decade-long investigation spurred by a dying whistleblower's account regarding toxic pollution in his childhood Welsh community. Joined by journalists and local residents, Sheen navigates the difficult terrain of corporate responsibility and public health, examining the lingering impacts of industrial chemical dumping.

Shifting gears to lighter fare, comedian Guz Khan embarks on a transformative journey in Guz Does MMA (1 x 60’), produced by Ricochet for BBC Three. As he approaches his 40th birthday—the age his father never reached—Khan dedicates himself to mixed martial arts, exploring the intersection of fitness, faith, and identity along the way. His year-long commitment becomes an exploration of masculinity and family dynamics, shedding light on how faith influences the success of Muslim fighters in the sport.

Exploring Family Mysteries

In a poignant investigation into family histories, Breakthrough with David Lomas (8 x 60’) for Three New Zealand grapples with enigmatic searches for missing persons. Journalist David Lomas traverses cultural and generational divides, constructing narratives that culminate in powerful reunions. Complementing this, My Family Mystery (12 x 60’) features presenter Sonia Gray assisting families in unearthing long-buried questions, utilizing researchers, DNA experts, and ancestral records to illuminate hidden truths.

The emotional weight of these searches can lead to significant personal revelations, bridging gaps in identity and offering closure to enduring mysteries.

Home Improvement and Crime Revisited

WBITVP New Zealand also presents My House My Castle (10 x 30’), where homeowners share insights on maximizing their living spaces through clever design solutions. Different lifestyles inspire inventive modifications, with experts from various fields revealing the financial and personal impact of their renovation choices.

On a darker note, The Dark Side (20 x 30’), a Finnish production from WBITVP, revisits notable criminal cases alongside crime journalist Riku Rantala and former narcotics officer Kale Puonti. Using generative AI to recreate crime scenes, the series delves into both resolved and unsolved cases, raising important questions about justice and remaining uncertainties.

Highlighting Sports and Legacy

Rounding out WBITVP’s slate is BASTA (7 x 60’), a scripted drama that chronicles the life and challenges of football icon Marco van Basten. From earning his father's approval to competing under the pressures of AC Milan, the series explores his relentless pursuit of excellence. As injuries threaten his career, van Basten confronts the reality of his identity, caught between his aspirations and the physical limitations imposed by his body.

In addition to these new titles, WBITVP is also reintroducing beloved series such as Waterloo Road, which returns with fresh episodes focusing on the complexities of school life in Greater Manchester. Similarly, the seventh season of Celebrity Treasure Island pits a new cohort of public figures against nature in a charity-centric competition.

Other returning shows include new seasons of The Repair Shop, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, and Who Do You Think You Are?, among others. Additionally, fans can anticipate updates to local versions of popular formats like First Dates and The Golden Bachelor Australia.

André Renaud, WBITVP’s GVP of Format and Finished Sales, emphasized the emotional core that ties this year's offerings together: “Our MIPCOM slate brings a wealth of stories united by themes of personal discovery and resolution. From Sheen’s investigation into local pollution to Khan’s personal explorations through MMA, these narratives highlight compelling journeys that resonate deeply with audiences seeking answers or understanding.”

Expect to see these dynamic productions captivate audiences at MIPCOM, showcasing WBITVP's commitment to storytelling that not only entertains but also engages with profound human experiences.

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