How a French Documentary Company Found Its Way into British TV Drama
Samuel Kissous: From French Documentaries to British Thrillers
Samuel Kissous, known for his distinctive journey from French documentaries to British television dramas featuring notable actors David Suchet and Joanna Scanlan, emphasizes a consistent theme throughout his work. His production company, Pernel Media, operates outside the UK, yet has established itself as a reliable drama supplier for Paramount UK’s network 5.
As traditional UK drama companies face closure in the current industry slowdown, Pernel Media is experiencing a surge in success. Kissous will join other leading drama producers, including Clapperboard’s Mike Benson, at a Series Mania panel titled “Producing for Less Without Losing Quality” to discuss innovative strategies in the industry.
Kissous’s career began at the French broadcaster M6, where he was impressed by the effectiveness of British formats. He oversaw local adaptations of popular shows like Who Do You Think You Are? and Jamie’s Kitchen. "I realized that half of our formats at M6 came from the UK, lots from Channel 4," he said, highlighting the UK’s reputation as a hub of creative storytelling.
The insights he gained in commissioning sharpened his production approach. "I worked with a guy once who used to say, ‘There is only one rule and that is that there is no rule,’" Kissous recalled. His experiences taught him that the creative process can be irrational and that innovative ideas can emerge from anyone.
Transitioning from his role at M6, Kissous led a French factual company, producing titles like Rise and Fall of the Incas and Secret Gardens of Pompeii. His focus has now shifted predominantly to scripted opportunities in the UK. Following extensive discussions with Paramount UK’s Seb Cardwell, Pernel Media produced The Au Pair, marking Suchet’s return to television after a six-year hiatus, alongside Lupin‘s Ludmilla Makowski. This year, Kissous has also been preparing Missed Call, featuring BAFTA-winner Scanlan and Rupert Graves, and is developing additional scripted projects with British broadcasters.
Kissous adopts a dynamic, unscripted-led methodology, moving swiftly to secure talent and locations while seeking innovative financing avenues. “The common thread between all my shows is they have been engineered to work internationally,” he stated. He believes that his background in factual programming enables him to challenge conventional scripted norms.
Using Missed Call as an example, he explained the significance of its French setting and a bilingual cast, crucial for partnering with French broadcaster TF1, which rarely acquires British series. The plot centers on a British mother whose daughter goes missing during a school exchange, compelling her to embark on a frantic search that uncovers dark secrets.
Kissous envisions creating “Bridgerton thrillers,” combining striking visuals with gripping narratives that explore darker themes in picturesque settings. He critiques some British production companies for not adapting to contemporary financing realities, noting that producing high-quality television requires time and resources and an openness to international filming.
A proponent of reforming the UK high-end TV tax credit, Kissous expressed confusion over the £1 million per hour threshold for accessing rebates. He has established an extensive international presence over his career, working in L.A., London, and France, and is currently seeking projects with global appeal.
Looking ahead, Kissous’s top priority is expanding his company’s portfolio of British scripted content, while remaining true to his guiding principle: the belief that creativity knows no boundaries.
