Fremantle eyes Original Prods.

FremantleMedia North America is in talks to acquire Thom Beers' Original Prods. Beers, who founded Original in 1999, has created a distinct "blue collar hero" unscripted programming brand with such shows as "Deadliest Catch," "Ice Road Truckers" and "Axeman." With a dozen series on television, mostly on cable, he's one of the most prolific reality producers. A deal would expand Beers' existing business relationship with Fremantle. In August, Fremantle picked up international distribution rights to several Original series: "Verminators," "America's Port, L.A.," "Hard Hats," "1,000 Ways to Die" and "Black Gold." Full story