A&E Networks Partners With Harlequin

A+E Networks and Harlequin have formed a creative partnership to produce a slate of original scripted movies, web series, books and digital content. Harlequin, of course, is a leading publisher of women’s fiction, and in the deal with A&E will franchise several scripted dramatic movies based on original stories and bestselling novels that will include a narrative of mystery, romance, thriller, suspense and more. Content will be made available across A+E Networks’ channels and content partners globally.

“We are excited to work with Harlequin, a company that shares our passion for entertaining women with compelling stories of empowerment,” said Rob Sharenow, EVP/GM, A&E, Lifetime and LMN, A+E Networks. “We are especially excited with the global scope of this deal that will enable us to bring great storytelling for women both in North America and to our channels and content partners around the world.”

“Harlequin is at the forefront of creative storytelling, bringing new and engaging content to a global audience in different formats,” added Craig Swinwood, Publisher and CEO of Harlequin. “We are thrilled to be working with a media company as innovative as A+E Networks to deliver compelling entertainment through immersive transmedia experiences.”

Roma Roth will executive produce the first film in the franchise via her Reel World Management banner, which is set to begin production in May in Canada.