Sony Pictures Television is beefing up its unscripted division. The studio has acquired a majority stake in 32 Flavors, the production company behind Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules and The Valley.
Founded in 2023 by Alex Baskin, 32 Flavors also produces two Real Housewives series (Beverly Hills and Orange County) and Still Flipping Out for Bravo, Hulu and Freeform’s Love Thy Nader (starting with its upcoming second sesaon) and the podcast Shut Up Evan for Netflix.
“Alex is one of the most passionate and hardest-working people in this business, with an impressive track record of building durable, culture-driving franchises,” Sony Pictures TV Studios president KatherinePope said in a statement. “This deal reflects our broader strategy to invest in best-in-class creative talent and scale distinctive, globally relevant IP. As the market evolves, we see real opportunity in premium nonfiction, and 32 Flavors strengthens our ability to deliver high-impact, returnable formats that connect with audiences and buyers around the world.”
Pope took on oversight of the Sony’s unscripted efforts after the departure of Sony Pictures Television Nonfiction heads Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman earlier this year. Baskin will continue CEO of 32 Flavors as it comes under Sony’s umbrella, and the company’s leadership team will also stay intact.
“32 Flavors has been on a remarkable trajectory, and with Sony’s support, we expect that momentum to accelerate meaningfully,” said Baskin. “The company is built on a clear creative vision and a track record of creating and sustaining culturally resonant programming across formats, and Sony’s scale, track record, and talent-first approach allow us to build on that momentum at a greater level without compromising the integrity and entrepreneurial spirit that defines the company.”
Sony’s unscripted division houses production companies Sharp Entertainment, Embassy Row, B17 Entertainment, 19 Entertainment, This Machine, Maxine Productions, Brass Monkeys Media, and Rebel Minds Media. It produces American Idol (with Fremantle), Shark Tank and the 90 Day Fiancé franchise, among other shows.