Sony Pictures Television (SPT) has launched its first original digital channel under its International Production division’s recently-launched digital studio initiative. The channel will debut with the series 100 Questions with Tom Simons.
The creator-led format is fronted by Simons, also known as TommyInnit, and is built around a simple premise: Simons has 100 questions to ask each guest, with the interview ending once the questions run out. SPT said the format is designed for repeatability and has been tailored to digital audiences.
The first episode will premiere on YouTube on April 21. The first roster of guests includes Stampy, Stephen Fry, Professor Brian Cox, James Marriott and Sweet Anita.
Matt Ford, co-head, digital studio, Sony Pictures Television International Production, said: “Launching our first digital studio channel with Tom is a big moment for us. He’s one of the most distinctive creators in the market, with a deep understanding of how to connect with large, engaged audiences. This is just the beginning – we’re building a focused slate of original concepts with a select group of creators and leading talent, and see a significant opportunity to develop ideas like this at scale.”
Sacha Khari, co-head, digital studio, SPTIP, said the show “takes the familiar shape of an interview series and strips it back to something lighter, faster, and far more revealing. What Tommy does so well is create space for real conversation – he has this beautiful ability to disarm people and unlock serious honesty, backed by an elite production team who know exactly how to bring that out. The result is that every episode delivers something different, a side of the guest you haven’t seen before, an unexpected perspective, or a conversation that takes a turn you didn’t see coming.”
Simons has more than 50 million followers across platforms. He has expanded his brand into live events and publishing, with two bestselling books, and has collaborated with a range of international brands. He said: “I honestly still can’t believe I get to do this as a job. I started out making videos in my room, and over the past few years I’ve been lucky enough to build a career outside of that, writing books, touring and now my own chat show. This feels like a chance to push myself even further out of my comfort zone, having conversations you wouldn’t expect. From asking Stephen Fry about his least favourite word to chatting with Brian Cox about the meaning of life, it’s been an unreal experience so far. I can’t wait for people to see it.”
