TellyCast has started releasing details of the action-packed sessions taking place at this year’s Digital Content Forum (Thursday, November 6: BFI Southbank).
Confirmed today is the expert line-up for The Future of Digital Formats, one of the hottest topics in social video right now. Speakers include Sony Pictures Television’s Matt Ford, ITV Studios’ Mike Beale, StudioB’s Molly Webb and Objekt’s Bart Frank.
According to TellyCast, the formats session will examine “how social video platforms are changing the way formats are developed, financed and distributed. It will also look at the opportunities and pressures shaping IP in a multi-platform world”.
The potential for formats to migrate backwards and forwards between social platforms, streamers and broadcasters has been front of mind in 2025, with Beast Games, Inside and Let’s Play Ball illustrating the potential for new development paths.
The panel brings together a broad range of expertise. Ford was recently hired by Sony Pictures Television International Production to head a new digital division. At the time of his appointment, he said the goal of his new outfit is to “create original formats, launch new channels and build creator partnerships.”
As MD creative networks ITV Studios, Mike Beale’s understanding of the formats business is second to none. He will be able to provide actionable insights into what it takes for a format to bridge the divide between digital and TV.
Meanwhile, Studio B’s Molly Webb and Objekt’s Bart Frank are among the pioneering digital-first production companies building original IP that has the potential to work across platforms. Objekt recently enjoyed a breakthrough when its Clone Heads format was picked up for distribution by Banijay Entertainment.
Last week, TellyCast named the latest wave of the industry leaders that have agreed to speak at the DCF. These include Katharina Gellein Viken of Metrotone Studios, Jon Lloyd from The Sun, Sam Barcroft representing SWNS Media Group, Georgie Holt of Diary of the CEO producer Flight Story, Sonny McLean from Fan Club Studio, and Daniel Winner of Avalon Advisory.
They add to a roster of previously announced speakers including creator Harry Pinero, Sidemen Entertainment MD Victor Bengtsson, Upload Agency’s Stuart Jones, vidIQ’s Rob Wilson, Athena Witter of Engine Pop, Abi Watson of Enders Analysis, Spirit Studios’ Matt Campion, The Wit’s Caroline Servy, COPA90’s Daniel Parker and Oxford University’s Dr Alex Connock.
Also new for DCF 2025 is The Bridge Digital Formats Lounge, where ITV Studios and Zoo55 will connect with creators and indies to explore digital-first opportunities around new and catalogue formats. Other features include the YouTube Clinic where delegates can get a free health check of their YouTube channels by vidIQ.
Tickets are available now, with early bird discounts in place until October 10.
