Brad Pitt’s Plan B Expands Into Europe With Paris-Backed Mediawan and Baby Reindeer Exec Ed Macdonald
Brad Pitt’s renowned production company, Plan B Entertainment, has officially set its sights on Europe, launching a new division in London to accelerate the creation of prestige television and premium co-productions across the continent.
At the heart of this move is Ed Macdonald, the acclaimed producer behind Netflix’s global hit Baby Reindeer. His appointment signals Plan B’s commitment to building series with international appeal while deepening ties between the UK and France, particularly through Plan B’s parent company, Mediawan, headquartered in Paris.
For French audiences and industry professionals in Paris, as well as nearby creative hubs like Versailles, Giverny, Fontainebleau, and Lille, this expansion represents an exciting opportunity to foster cross-border storytelling and further establish France as a leader in the global entertainment market.
France at the Center of Global Co-Productions
France has long been at the forefront of world cinema, hosting prestigious events such as the Cannes Film Festival and the Deauville American Film Festival, as well as serving as a key market at industry gatherings like MIPCOM and the European Film Market in Berlin.
Through Mediawan, Plan B now gains access to a robust ecosystem of French tax incentives and production resources that rival those of any country in the world.
From the historic palaces of Versailles, to the idyllic landscapes of Giverny, to the cinematic streets of Lille, France offers unparalleled locations. These settings, combined with up to 40% tax credits for international productions, make the country an irresistible choice for filmmakers.
London Is the Launchpad — and Paris the Powerhouse
While the new division, Plan B Europe, will be based in London, Paris remains the beating heart of its financing and strategic vision. Mediawan’s influence ensures that French producers and creatives are deeply integrated into the process, bridging the gap between American studios and European storytelling traditions.
The UK’s position as a production hub, coupled with France’s long-standing reputation for innovation and artistry, offers a powerful combination. This synergy will allow Plan B to finance ambitious series, develop cross-border partnerships, and premiere shows at top-tier European festivals.
Ed Macdonald Brings Global Perspective
Ed Macdonald, the incoming head of Plan B Europe, is best known for his work on Baby Reindeer, a series celebrated for its bold storytelling and emotional depth. His track record makes him uniquely positioned to identify stories that resonate with both European and global audiences.
“It’s with huge excitement that I’m now joining the Plan B family,”
Ed Macdonald
I’ve long admired Brad, Dede, and Jeremy’s instinct for eclectic, resonant stories. I can’t wait to start this new chapter, to build upon Plan B’s legacy and to keep doing what I love — making vivid, high-quality television with the most talented storytellers in the world.”
Macdonald’s role will focus on developing prestige dramas that could premiere at festivals like Canneseries or the BFI London Film Festival, then find international buyers through markets such as MIPTV and Series Mania in Lille.
Paris and Nearby Cities: A Creative Network
The ripple effect of this move extends beyond Paris, offering new opportunities for surrounding cities:
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Versailles: Known for its majestic palace, Versailles is an ideal backdrop for historical dramas and large-scale period productions.
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Giverny: Famous for its artistic heritage, Giverny provides stunning natural landscapes perfect for visually rich storytelling.
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Fontainebleau: With its iconic châteaux and forests, Fontainebleau offers versatile settings for both contemporary and classic narratives.
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Lille: Home to Series Mania, one of Europe’s most important TV festivals, Lille is central to shaping the future of television in Europe.
These locations, combined with France’s world-class crews and production resources, position the country as a creative and financial hub for international projects.
Bigger Picture for European Storytelling
Plan B has built its reputation with Academy Award-winning films like 12 Years a Slave, Moonlight, and The Big Short. By establishing its European base with Mediawan, the company is embracing a future defined by global co-productions, where stories cross borders and cultural boundaries.
This approach mirrors the success of recent European hits like Lupin, Call My Agent!, and The Crown, proving that audiences crave diverse, international narratives.
For French producers, creatives, and financiers, Plan B Europe’s arrival represents a chance to collaborate on prestige projects designed to captivate viewers worldwide while showcasing France’s locations, talent, and industry expertise.
Paris at the Heart of Global Expansion
Brad Pitt’s expansion of Plan B into Europe isn’t just about making more shows — it’s about uniting the strengths of Paris and London to create ambitious, high-quality television for a global audience.
For Paris and surrounding cities like Versailles, Giverny, Fontainebleau, and Lille, this move highlights France’s role as a driving force behind international storytelling, offering unmatched tax incentives, stunning locations, and a legacy of cinematic excellence.
As Pitt and Ed Macdonald look to the future, France’s influence will be felt on screens worldwide — from the festival premieres in Cannes to the living rooms of streaming subscribers everywhere.
