Spain’s Unscripted Boom, Led by Mediapro Studio, RTVE and Streamers

Spain’s unscripted television sector has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. What was once considered a secondary player in the unscripted arena has now become a powerhouse, with formats that dominate primetime and have the potential to travel abroad.

There are two key factors driving this momentum. The first is the Mediapro Studio’s foray into global exports, expanding beyond its traditional focus on drama to embrace unscripted content. Shows like “El Conquistador” and “Atrápame si puedes” have seen success not only in Spain but also in international markets, with plans for further expansion.

Meanwhile, public broadcaster RTVE has made a significant investment in entertainment programming, redefining its role in the unscripted landscape. Shows like “MasterChef” and “Maestros de la Costura” have become mainstays, while revivals of classic formats like “Trivial Pursuit” and “Cifras y Letras” have added a nostalgic touch to the lineup.

Atresmedia and Mediaset España, two of the country’s leading private broadcasters, continue to hold strong ratings with a mix of quiz shows, celebrity contests, and reality programming. Additionally, streaming platforms like Prime Video and Movistar Plus+ are also making their mark with a variety of unscripted offerings.

The real driving force behind Spain’s newfound international presence in the unscripted genre is the adaptability of its formats. Shows like “Cuánto, cuánto, cuánto” and “La Revuelta” blend humor and social commentary, while adaptations of popular international formats like “Ordena tu vida” and “Hasta el fin del mundo” cater to local audiences while still offering a fresh perspective.

According to industry experts, the key to success lies in creating shows that are not only successful locally but also have the potential to be adapted for international markets. Spanish production companies are focusing on developing robust, mid-cost, and flexible formats that can easily be tailored for different audiences.

Overall, Spain’s unscripted television sector is thriving, with a diverse range of formats that appeal to a wide audience. With the ability to produce shows that travel well, cost less than their English-language counterparts, and adapt across platforms, Spain is becoming an attractive destination for buyers looking for high-quality unscripted content.