The rise of social media and platforms like YouTube has led to an increase in copycat versions of popular TV shows such as Big Brother, Survivor, and Total Wipeout. Banijay, a leading formats powerhouse, has expressed concern over these unauthorized replicas, stating that they pose a significant threat to the creative economy. Lucas Green, Banijay’s Chief Content Officer of Operations, emphasized the challenges faced by original creators in combating these copycats legally.
According to Green, there has been a surge in copycat examples on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Twitch, created by a growing number of social media personalities. These copycats often operate with smaller teams and limited resources, leading to potential breaches of trademarks and intellectual property rights. Green highlighted the need for industry-wide discussions to address this issue and protect the integrity of original formats and franchises.
Not only do copycat versions of TV shows jeopardize the revenue and recognition of original creators, but they also raise concerns about audience engagement and content quality. Green stressed the importance of safeguarding the relationship between audiences and well-regulated, long-form content in the face of increasingly short-form, instant gratification media trends. The proliferation of copycats poses a dual risk to the industry, impacting both rights and intellectual property as well as audience preferences and viewing habits.
Green called for a united effort among industry stakeholders, including production companies, trade bodies, and government agencies, to address the growing threat of copycat versions. He emphasized the need for leadership and guidance from established content powerhouses like Banijay to navigate the evolving landscape of content creation and distribution. By sparking debate and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of copycat versions, Banijay aims to instigate a discussion similar to the disruptions caused by streaming platforms in the past decade.
Despite the challenges posed by copycat versions, Green acknowledged the potential for collaboration between traditional TV networks and digital platforms like YouTube. He cited successful partnerships, such as the deal between Banijay and German creator Knossi for a Big Brother spin-off on Amazon-owned Twitch, as examples of bridging the gap between traditional and new media formats. By embracing talent from diverse backgrounds and platforms, Banijay hopes to defend the value of long-form content and the intellectual property model in an increasingly competitive industry.
The proliferation of copycat versions of TV shows represents a significant threat to the creative economy and audience engagement. Industry leaders like Banijay are calling for collaboration and dialogue to address the challenges posed by unauthorized replicas and safeguard the integrity of original content. By advocating for a balanced approach that embraces innovation while respecting intellectual property rights, the industry can establish a framework for sustainable growth and creativity in the digital age.