TF1’s adaptation will be directed by Hervé Mimran and will star Amir Haddad and Ludmilla von Claer.
Keshet International (KI) has finalised a major licensing deal to adapt its Israeli romantic comedy The Baker and the Beauty for French audiences. Marathon Studio and Terence Films, both part of Banijay France, will produce the French version, titled La Belle et Le Boulanger, for TF1, marking Keshet’s first scripted format adaptation in France.
Based on the acclaimed Israeli format created by Assi Azar and initially produced by Endemol Shine Israel for Keshet 12, The Baker and the Beauty follows the improbable love story between an international superstar and a humble baker.
Directed by Hervé Mimran, the 4×52’ French adaptation features a script by Caroline Franc, Marion Michau, Jane Rioufol, Léa Lando, and Ichem Saïbi. The cast includes Amir Haddad and Ludmilla von Claer in the lead roles, originally played by Aviv Alush and Rotem Sela.
Speaking about the deal, Malika Abdellaoui, CEO of Marathon Studio, said: “Absolutely delighted to bring to the screen the French adaptation of The Baker and The Beauty, created and written by Assi Azar, a romantic comedy with a beautiful family dimension. In this French remake, which is the very first fictional series to feature Amir, I was seduced by the unexpected duo of a baker and a supermodel. Behind this impossible love story, there’s also the story of Benjamin’s (Amir) family and the bakery: a story of passing on French craftsmanship, know-how and traditions. I’d like to thank TF1, Anne Didier and Solène Bouton, for their guidance and support throughout the literary development, and Keshet International for entrusting us with this fantastic format.”
Bertrand Cohen and Stéphane Meunier, CEO of Terence Films, added: “We loved the original version of the series written by Assi Azar, and we’re delighted to be working with TF1 again. Marion Michau and Caroline Franc’s fine work in adapting the series was to give a family dimension to a romantic comedy, while preserving its wit and humour. I’m very happy with the cast, and I know that under the direction of Hervé Mimran, the characters will be wonderfully embodied.”
Kelly Wright, KI’s MD of Distribution, stated: “The Baker and the Beauty is one of those formats with undeniable universal appeal. We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Marathon Studio, Terence Films, TF1 and an A-list cast to bring a French adaptation of this opposites-attract love story to viewers in France. I have no doubt that Amir and Ludmilla will have them all hooked!”
Format creator Assi Azar commented: “It still amazes me to see that a series I wrote in my living room continues to cross continents and thrill viewers across the globe. The Baker and the Beauty is one of the most romantic love stories out there. After having been adapted into English, Russian, Dutch, and Telegu in India, Noa and Amos are now heading to Paris – the most romantic city in the world – to continue their travels as Louise and Benjamin. I believe that we will reach many more cities, countries, and languages and that we will continue, together with Keshet, to proudly represent Israeli creativity.”
In La Belle et Le Boulanger, Benjamin (Amir Haddad) and Louise (Ludmilla von Claer) are complete opposites. While Louise is a globe-trotting supermodel, Benjamin runs his family’s bakery. Their unexpected meeting in a restaurant men’s room leads to a whirlwind of events that disrupt Benjamin’s orderly life and his entire family. The series explores whether their relationship can survive the clash of their vastly different worlds.
La Belle et Le Boulanger will start shooting this week in Paris for TF1. Keshet International will distribute the four-part series internationally on behalf of Marathon Studio and Terence Films.
The original Israeli series has received critical acclaim and set ratings records in Israel. KI has licensed The Baker and the Beauty format in multiple territories, including the United States (produced by Keshet Studios for ABC), the Netherlands (as Bagels and Bubbles), Russia, and India. Seasons one and two of the original series are available on Amazon Prime, with all three seasons distributed globally by KI.