Radical Media Develops TV Slate

Branded content production shingle Radical Media (“Iconoclasts”) is ramping up its TV development, starting with a series version of the bestselling book “Freakonomics.” Bob Friedman, Radical’s president of media and entertainment, said the company is working with author/journo Stephen Dubner (who partnered with economist Steven Levitt to produce the book and its sequels) to develop several variations on the title. Levitt will appear on the show, which is being shopped to nets. Company is also behind the Planet Green series “The Kamen Code,” centering on inventor Dean Kamen. Kamen came up with the Segway and the first insulin pump, among other creations. Project reunites Radical with Planet Green topper Laura Michalchyshyn, who formerly ran Sundance Channel (where “Iconoclasts” runs). For new cabler Centric, Radicalis working on a new docu-style, celeb-driven series from Lauren Lazin (“Tupac: Resurrection”). Other projects being developed at Radical include a docusoap set inside the Miami City Ballet. Production shingle is also developing a show based on Randy Jones’ business tome “The Richest Man in Town,” documenting the rags-to-riches stories of the self-made wealthy. As previously announced, Radical is producing one of the new Oprah Winfrey Network’s signature shows, “Masterclass” — hosted by Winfrey herself. And Radical is still developing “Pigs and Panthers,” based on the life of undercover LAPD detective Ronald Farwell, at Showtime. At MTV, Radical is behind the longform doc “Summit on the Summit,” which runs next week. Project follows stars, such as Jessica Biel and Emile Hirsch, who climb Mt. Kilimanjaro for charity. Radical produced “Summit” with Procter and Gamble, which is integrating messages for its new Pure water purification system.

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118016329.html?categoryId=2431&cs=1

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