'Vikings' Creator Launches TV Banner, Strikes MGM Deal for 'Ronin' Adaptation (Exclusive)

Michael Hirst has set up Green Pavilion Entertainment alongside longtime producing partners Morgan O'Sullivan and James Flynn.

Michael Hirst, the BAFTA-nominated showrunner and creator of both Vikings and The Tudors, has launched his own independent production company alongside his longtime producing partners Morgan O'Sullivan and James Flynn.

Green Pavilion Entertainment will develop and produce high-end dramas for international and domestic markets and is set to work with established writers and directors, alongside emerging talent.

In addition to the announcement, made Wednesday, the company revealed that it has struck an exclusive first-look deal with MGM Television. As part of the multiyear deal, Green Pavilion is developing Ronin, a television series inspired by the 1998 spy thriller starring Robert De Niro and Jean Reno. Hirst, O'Sullivan and Flynn previously collaborated with MGM TV on the hit History Channel show Vikings, which was recently renewed for a sixth season.

To bolster Green Pavilion's team, Sharon Remmer has been named creative director. Remmer was previously head of drama in charge of development and production at Frank Spotnitz's Big Light Productions, with her recent credits including The Man in the High Castle and Medici: Masters of Florence.

"Green Pavilion has been a long time in the making," said Hirst. "Everyone involved in this new venture has experience developing and making premium content which appeals to international audiences. Having MGM Television as an ally in this venture will help us to build on our strengths and draw the best writers, directors and creative talent in the industry to our projects."

Added Mark Burnett, MGM’s president, television group and digital, and Steve Stark, MGM’s president, television production and development: "Michael Hirst, Morgan O’Sullivan and James Flynn have brilliantly shepherded Vikings for the past five years and, during that time, we have witnessed first-hand the quality of artists and talent that this team have expertly assembled to produce premium content on a massive scale. We look forward to continue working with their whole team at Green Pavilion."