High-Energy Japanese Competition Format "Ants" Acquired by Fremantle for Global Distribution

Fremantle has secured the global distribution rights to the thrilling Japanese competition format, "Ants." This format is based on the unparalleled coordination and teamwork exhibited by ant colonies.

Nippon TV developed and produced "Ants," which was then refined by Fremantle North America for international expansion. The game show debuted on Nippon TV in Japan, garnering widespread attention for its entertaining yet challenging physical obstacles, engaging team-based gameplay, and larger-than-life set design.

Fremantle will co-distribute the format alongside Nippon TV, which retains distribution rights in Asia (excluding Indonesia, India, and Singapore). Fremantle will distribute the format in the remaining regions worldwide.

Innovative and Captivating Gameplay

In "Ants," contestants assume the roles of ants within a super-sized environment. They must navigate a series of challenging physical obstacles that require strategic thinking and collaboration. From individual tasks to group challenges, contestants encounter obstacles on a grand scale, such as swiftly transporting oversized food items across a colossal kitchen to secure cash prizes—all while the clock ticks down relentlessly. The more items collected by the contestants, the greater the prize. However, as in nature, not every "ant" will succeed.

Endorsements and Anticipation

Jimmy Fox, Fremantle's EVP, Head of Development and Sales, Unscripted, expresses his admiration for Nippon TV's unwavering commitment to producing groundbreaking and genre-defining formats. "It's incredibly rare to encounter a format that elicits the thought, 'I've never witnessed anything like this,' yet 'Ants' achieves just that," he remarks.

Vasha Wallace, Fremantle's EVP of Global Acquisitions and Development, Global Entertainment, commends the show's compelling and entertaining nature. "This show is guaranteed to elicit laughter and intrigue viewers. It seamlessly combines humor with physical challenges, creating an engaging and enjoyable experience for audiences of all ages," she states.

Tom Miyauchi, Nippon TV's Head of Formats, highlights the format's unique perspective and message. "This exhilarating, large-scale game show presents a fresh take on these familiar creatures, emphasizing the importance of unity and teamwork—values that are deeply ingrained in ants themselves," he says.

Additional Information

* Fremantle has acquired the global distribution rights to "Ants," excluding Asia (except Indonesia, India, and Singapore).
* Nippon TV remains the distributor in Asia (excluding Indonesia, India, and Singapore).
* The format blends entertainment and physical challenges, promoting teamwork and strategic thinking.
* The show has generated significant interest from potential partners worldwide.