Format chiefs detail local TV tweaks
Executives from NBCUniversal and TBS Television discussed how global shows are adapted for specific cultural norms during a panel at the Taiwan Creative Content Fest.
By Yara Nasser ·
Global television formats often require structural changes to succeed in different markets, according to industry leaders who spoke at the Taiwan Creative Content Fest in Taipei on Friday. The session examined how broadcasters modify popular shows to fit local viewing habits and cultural sensitivities.
Linfield Ng, vice president of format sales and production for Asia at NBCUniversal Formats, explained that the pilot of the legal drama "Suits" originally featured a briefcase containing marijuana. In the Japanese adaptation, the drugs were replaced with cash because television networks there generally avoid showing narcotics. Ng noted that while the visual prop changed, the core DNA of the show remained intact.
Similar adjustments occurred in the Korean version of "Saturday Night Live." Producers removed the musical segment because the local market already offered many music and countdown programs. They also softened politically charged cold opens during sensitive periods, substituting them with topical material to suit local audiences.
Fukaya Shunsuke, head of new format sales for Europe at TBS Television, cited "Sasuke," known internationally as "Ninja Warrior," as a prime example of a universally understood concept. The show features human competitors against giant obstacles, a premise that requires minimal explanation across different cultures. TBS maintains a specific brand guide for the series that defines it as an Olympic event for unknown athletes built on sportsmanship.
Both executives emphasized the importance of pre-production collaboration. Ng stated that his team holds calls with local partners weeks or months before filming begins and reviews early episodes before they air. This process helps ensure that Asian versions, which often include celebrity panels and behind-the-scenes drama, align with the original creator's vision.
Fukaya discussed the challenges of co-developing shows with international partners. While working on "Lovers or Liars?" with All3Media International, he navigated a creative disagreement over ballroom dancing. British creators wanted the dance to facilitate body contact, which helps reveal which couple is genuine. Fukaya settled on choreography with plenty of touching to satisfy both sides.
NBCUniversal Formats has sold more than 40 format brands across Asia, with 39 seasons across 17 territories in 2025. The company acquires rights for specific regions, often taking Asian rights while owners like TBS retain European markets. Ng noted that game shows are less popular in Korea, so his team rarely pitches them there.
The panel concluded with a discussion on intellectual property protection. Fukaya, who joined the advisory board of the Format Recognition and Protection Association in 2026, said the group helps define the boundaries of protected ideas. He noted that creating an exact replica of the "Ninja Warrior" Warped Wall would be a clear violation, whereas buying an IP allows new partners to learn from previous mistakes.
