Sony Pictures Television has expanded its UK television production by acquiring a majority stake in the new Belfast-based company Hot Sauce. Hot Sauce was founded by acclaimed writers Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, known for their work on BBC shows like “The Salisbury Poisonings” and the police drama “Blue Lights.”
The deal gives Sony Pictures Television control over Hot Sauce and allows the company to join Sony’s other UK production studios. Financial terms of the acquisition were not released. Matthew Justice, head of UK and European television for Sony Pictures, said the deal strengthens the company’s position in British drama.
Lawn and Patterson started Hot Sauce as a creative partnership after working together at BBC. Their drama “Blue Lights” was a big success, receiving a renewal for two seasons before the second one even aired. Justice called Lawn and Patterson’s storytelling style “unique and analytical,” and said having them join Sony Pictures is “tremendously exciting.”
The acquisition builds on Sony’s existing production location in Northern Ireland. It acquires Stellify Media, the company behind the game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” Sony Pictures Productions International CEO Wayne Garvie wants to make Sony the top drama producer in Britain.
Lawn and Patterson will remain represented by their talent agencies in the UK and US. They said Sony is the “perfect partner” to help them expand Hot Sauce’s creative vision. Hot Sauce plans to hire more staff and produce both television shows and films.
The deal adds to Sony Pictures’ portfolio of popular British television, such as “The Crown,” “Doctor Who,” and “Comedy Sex Education.” It signals Sony’s commitment to growing its presence in the UK television industry.
