RDF developing new shows for Dave

UKTV has announced a new partnership with RDF Media for script development of future live-action comedy and animation commissions on Dave.

Under the deal, RDF Media will develop three pilot scripts, including one animated series, with UKTV hoping at least one of the shows will be broadcast on Dave in the second half of 2010.

This deal builds on the success of Dave's first scripted comedy Red Dwarf: Back to Earth, which pulled in 2.66m viewers when it premiered this Easter.

UKTV director of entertainment Christian Drobynk revealed that there are ambitious plans to further expand Dave's portfolio of new commissions in the future.

"We've proven with the phenomenal success of Red Dwarf: Back to Earth, the UK's highest ever rating multi-channel commission, that Dave can deliver high-quality scripted comedy that stands out in this competitive market.

"Original scripted comedy resonates with the Dave audience and we believe that a slick animation series with the channel's witty banter at its core, will enable us to capitalise on the momentum we've garnered with Red Dwarf and continue to extend Dave's appeal."

RDF Television head of comedy Clelia Mountford added: "We're delighted to be working with Dave as they move into commissioning original comedy - from witty banter to witty narratives, it's an exciting time for all concerned."

The partnership will also look to sell scripts to TV operators in other countries, with a pilot script for an animated series already being pre-sold to the Fox network in the US.

RDF Media USA chief executive Chris Coelen said: "In a global market that is increasingly close knit, we're working with our partners at Dave to develop comedies that first and foremost work within the UK, but which also have potential to sell and succeed in territories worldwide, including the US."