London, January 2012, FremantleMedia UK today announced it has created a new digital division, FremantleMedia UK Interactive, combining the expertise and knowledge of the former talkbackTHAMES digital team and Screenpop, the group’s innovation and mass participation unit.  

The division will be headed up by Peter Cassidy, formerly Managing Director of Screenpop. Peter will report into Christian Grobel, FremantleMedia UK’s new Director of Strategy and Operations, and will work with the Label Managing Directors for Boundless, Retort, Talkback and Thames.  Peter joins the Editorial Board of FremantleMedia UK.

The new division will focus on driving audience engagement with existing and new formats, building on the success of interactive apps such The X Factor’s play-along “Tap to Clap”.  The division will work with FremantleMedia UK Labels and FremantleMedia Enterprises in the development of interactive formats and entertainment concept with a focus on mobile apps, second screen interaction, direct to consumer transactions, social media and games.

The Screenpop brand will continue as a sub-label of FremantleMedia UK Interactive building on the unit’s track record in participation-based formats and game and developing ground-breaking new interactive experiences across all media.

Christian Grobel, Director Strategy and Operations FremantleMedia UK commented: “Combining the skills and expertise of the award-winning talkbackTHAMES digital team and Screenpop’s record of innovation will ensure we continue to create engaging and fun experiences for audiences wherever they are. Peter has a wealth of knowledge and experience in this area and I’m delighted he will be leading the team.” 

For further information please contact:

Mary O’Reilly, Head of Communications, FremantleMedia UK.

Tel:  07807 486 267 or email mary.oreilly@talkbackthames.tv