“The Bridge,” A new police drama, Premieres Saturday, July 10, 8:00-9:00 pm

Date: May 25, 2010
Source: CBS Media Releases

 

THE BRIDGE, a new drama about a tough and dedicated police officer who is voted to become the police union’s dynamic leader, premieres Saturday, July 10 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

The series, based on the insights of veteran insider and outspoken former Toronto police union head Craig Bromell, chronicles a charismatic union leader who is working parallel campaigns in a big city police force—battling criminals on the street and fighting his own bosses, and sometimes corruption in the ranks, to protect his fellow officers.

THE BRIDGE stars Aaron Douglas (“Battlestar Galactica,” “Smallville”), Paul Popowich (“Angela’s Eyes”), Frank Cassini (“Vice”), Theresa Joy (“All the Good Ones are Married”), Ona Grauer (“Stargate SG-1”) and Michael Murphy (“X-Men: The Last Stand”).

THE BRIDGE is produced by E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions in association with CTV and CBS Television Studios. Craig Bromell, Adam J. Shully, Laszlo Barna, Alan Di Fiore and Robert Wertheimer are executive producers.

Frank Risks It All During the Heart-Pounding Season Finale of THE BRIDGE, May 21 on CTV

Date: May 20, 2010
Source: CTV Media Releases

 

– Averaging more than one million viewers each week, THE BRIDGE is the #1 new Canadian drama of the season –
– Finale also follows the season finales of GHOST WHISPERER and MEDIUM –

“In performance and production, THE BRIDGE is very slick.” – Sun Media

 

Toronto, ON (May 20, 2010) – The #1 new Canadian drama of the year locks things up in the season finale of THE BRIDGE this Friday, May 21 at 10 p.m. ET on CTV following the season finales of GHOST WHISPERER at 8 p.m. ET and MEDIUM at 9 p.m. ET. With union leader Frank Leo (Aaron Douglas) and his team under siege by mysterious attackers, he ultimately decides to do whatever it takes to bring them down and protect those around him. The season finale guest stars well-known Canadian actress Wendy Crewson (24) as Mayor Kennedy.

Before the finale, viewers can catch up with previous episodes of THE BRIDGE on the CTV Video Player at CTV.ca. The full season of THE BRIDGE will also be available on the CTV Video Player through the summer.

After premiering just following the conclusion of the 2010 Winter Games, THE BRIDGE quickly became a fan favourite, making it the #1 new Canadian drama of the season. With an average audience of more than one million viewers since its series premiere (1.01 million), THE BRIDGE consistently wins its 10 p.m. timeslot Friday night on CTV. THE BRIDGE has also found an online audience with almost 350,000 video views each month.

In the season finale, entitled “Chain of Fools” (Friday, May 21 at 10 p.m. ET), Frank (Aaron Douglas) and his team find themselves mysteriously under siege by a team of faceless attackers, leading Frank to quickly set up a war room at Rabbi’s bar to keep his friends safe. After devising a plan to strike back, and a life and death car chase, Frank must decide who to trust – the Chief (Michael Murphy), the Mayor (guest star Wendy Crewson), or the Russian Mob boss whose son Frank put in prison. Ultimately, Frank realizes that the enemies coming after him are part of a much wider, more deadly conspiracy, and he makes a deal with the devil to bring them down. The episode culminates in an unforgettable sequence between Frank Leo and unknown assailants, which is inspired by Steve McQueen’s famous car chase in the 1968 feature film Bullitt.

Final Data Shows Jump in Audience for THE 82nd ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS as well as the Premieres of HICCUPS, DAN FOR MAYOR, and THE BRIDGE

Date: March 22, 2010
Source: CTV Media Releases

 

Toronto, ON (March 22, 2010) – Data released last week from BBM Canada confirms an increase in the final audiences for the series premieres of CTV’s newest homegrown comedies, HICCUPS and DAN FOR MAYOR, along with CTV’s newest drama THE BRIDGE, as well as CTV’s broadcast of THE 82nd ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS®.

HICCUPS
• HICCUPS delivered a final audience of 2.06 million viewers for its March 1 premiere, up 8% from preliminary overnight data. It’s the largest debut for a Canadian series this season, besting the series premiere of BATTLE OF THE BLADES (CBC, 1.999 million)

DAN FOR MAYOR
• DAN FOR MAYOR delivered a final audience of 1.995 million viewers for its March 1 premiere, up 4% from preliminary overnight data.

THE BRIDGE
• THE BRIDGE delivered a final audience of 1.22 million viewers for its special two-hour March 5 premiere, up 23% from preliminary overnight data. The gritty, hour-long drama becomes the most-watched series premiere for a Canadian drama this season, ahead of THE REPUBLIC OF DOYLE (CBC, 1.009 million)

THE 82nd ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS®
• CTV’s March 7 broadcast of THE ACADEMY AWARDS® delivered a final audience of 6.192 million viewers, up 5% from preliminary overnight data. THE 82nd ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS® becomes the top entertainment telecast in more than a decade, surpassing the 2004 series finale of FRIENDS (Global/NBC, 6.14 million).

Source: BBM Canada

Series Premiere of THE BRIDGE Wins Time Slot and Locks Up One Million Viewers on CTV

Date: March 8, 2010
Source: CTV Media Releases

 

– Most-watched series of the night in Toronto –
– Nearly 3.5 million viewers tune in to part of the two-hour premiere –

 

Toronto, ON (March 8, 2010) – The series premiere of the new CTV original series THE BRIDGE debuted #1 in its 9 p.m. timeslot in Canada Friday night on CTV, with one million viewers. THE BRIDGE becomes the most-watched series premiere for a Canadian drama this season, based on preliminary overnight data.* The audience peaked at 1.25 million viewers, with nearly 3.5 million Canadians tuning in to some part of the two-hour premiere. In Toronto, THE BRIDGE was the #1 series of the day with Viewers 2+ and Adults 25-54.

THE BRIDGE retained 87% of its 8 p.m. lead in, GHOST WHISPERER, which garnered 1.15 million viewers on CTV and CBS. Saturday’s encore broadcast on CTV attracted 364,000 viewers. Watch it online now at CTV.ca.

THE BRIDGE won both the 9 and 10 p.m. ET timeslots against SHARK TANK (ABC/Global; 536,000; 9-10 p.m.) and NUMB3RS (CBS/Global; 788,000; 10-11 p.m.) and delivered two-and-a-half times more viewers than the series premiere of WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE (NBC/City, 8-9 p.m. 398,000).

THE BRIDGE is the third CTV original series to premiere with a million or more viewers in the same week following the debuts of HICCUPS and DAN FOR MAYOR, both with 1.9 million viewers.

In this week’s episode of THE BRIDGE, entitled “The Fat Lady Sings the Blues” (Friday, March 12 at 10 p.m. ET on CTV) Frank (Aaron Douglas) is forced to hit the streets and play by the bad guys’ rules after a retired narcotics cop is found murdered.

Source: BBM Canada, unconfirmed overnight data

Note: The below is a snippet from the CTV Press Release where THE BRIDGE is mentioned. To read the full Press Release, click HERE.

 

Canada’s Hottest Programs Return to CTV March 1 As Regular Prime-Time Lineup Resumes

Date: February 26, 2010
Source: CTV Media Releases

 

– Full week of all-new episodes fills prime-time schedule –
– Premiere of HICCUPS and DAN FOR MAYOR leads refreshed scheduled out of the gate –
– Work week capped-off with world premiere broadcast of police drama THE BRIDGE –
– Blockbuster week wraps up with 82nd ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS –
– ETALK and CTV NATIONAL NEWS return with coverage of THE JUNO AWARDS nominations and Budget highlights –

 

Toronto, ON (February 26, 2010) – As the 2010 Winter Games come to a close on Sunday, CTV turns up the heat for March with the return of its regular hit programming and the much-anticipated premieres of three all-new Canadian series. Leading the charge right out of the gate starting at 8 p.m. ET on Monday are HICCUPS and DAN FOR MAYOR, adding even more laughs to a comedy programming block also featuring all-new episodes of TWO AND A HALF MEN and THE BIG BANG THEORY. Other favourites returning to CTV with all-new episodes are AMERICAN IDOL, LOST, CSI and GREY’S ANATOMY, before the feature-length world premiere of THE BRIDGE on Friday, March 5 and the 82nd ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS on Sunday, March 7.

Meanwhile, the week also marks the return of CTV NEWS WITH LLOYD ROBERTSON, airing weeknights at 11 p.m. ET, including special coverage of Budget 2010 on Thursday, March 4. Additionally, Canada’s most-watched entertainment newsmagazine ETALK returns weeknights at 7 p.m. ET, including exclusive coverage of THE 2010 JUNO AWARDS nominations announcements on Wednesday, March 3.

Below is a chronological list of broadcast highlights for the week of March 1-7 (All times ET; visit CTV.ca to confirm local broadcast times):

Friday, March 5
9 p.m. – THE BRIDGE – TWO-HOUR SPECIAL SERIES PREMIERE
After the rank and file unanimously vote tough and dedicated street cop Frank Leo (Aaron Douglas) into office as head of the Police Union, he begins his quest to put street cops first and clean up the force from the ground up. But the old boys’ network running the police force and the city’s self-serving politicians are not about to sit idly by while a former street cop makes up his own rules. Leo walks the thin blue line as he battles criminals on the streets, corruption in the ranks and the politically motivated department brass, letting nothing stop him from fulfilling his unwavering vow that when cops are in trouble, he will be there to protect the protectors.

Below is the CTV Press Release that came out today. Most of it is just a repeat of what has been said in previous press releases. But this one gives an episode synopsis for the pilot episode (which I’ve highlighted below in green font). It also says that THE BRIDGE “will be available on demand on the CTV Video Player at CTV.ca”. The last press release made it sound like it wouldn’t be. And there’s a new promo photo of Aaron.

 

Beyond the Badge: CTV’s Authentic New Drama Series THE BRIDGE Peels Away Layers of Big-City Police Force, March 5

Date: February 11, 2010
Source: CTV Media Releases

 

– Series stars Aaron Douglas (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA) along with Paul Popowich, Inga Cadranel, Frank Cassini, Theresa Joy, Ona Grauer and Michael Murphy –
– Episodes of THE BRIDGE available post-broadcast on CTV.ca –

 

Toronto, ON (February 11, 2010) – Cops take an oath to be honest and faithful in their police duties and private life. They’re trusted protectors of the public and the law. But, what happens when the “old boys” establishment behind the badge reveals a different – often conflicting – message? Written by five-time Gemini Award-winner Alan Di Fiore (DA VINCI’S INQUEST, THE HANDLER) and inspired by the insights of former Toronto police union head Craig Bromell, the new CTV Original Series THE BRIDGE debuts Friday, March 5 at 9 p.m. ET on CTV with a special two-hour premiere before moving to its regular Fridays at 10 p.m. ET timeslot beginning March 12 (visit CTV.ca to confirm local broadcast times). Starring Aaron Douglas (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA) as police union head Frank Leo, THE BRIDGE is an authentic and compelling twist on the police procedural told through the lens of a charismatic and dynamic union leader, working to protect his fellow officers.

Following broadcasts on CTV, THE BRIDGE will also be available on demand on the CTV Video Player at CTV.ca.

After the rank and file unanimously vote tough and dedicated street cop Frank Leo into office as head of the Police Union, he begins his quest to put street cops first and clean up the force from the ground up. But the old boys’ network running the police force and the city’s self-serving politicians are not about to sit idly by while a former street cop makes up his own rules. Frank walks the thin blue line as he battles criminals on the streets, corruption in the ranks and the politically motivated department brass, letting nothing stop him from fulfilling his unwavering vow that when cops are in trouble, he will be there to protect the protectors.

“With the commanding performance of Aaron Douglas as Frank Leo at its centre, THE BRIDGE is a unique and riveting look into the inner workings of a police force,” said Susanne Boyce, President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc.

Shot in and around Toronto, Ontario, the 13-episode series was originally commissioned as a two-hour back-door pilot by CTV, ordered to series in November 2008, and later picked up by CBS last year.

THE BRIDGE Timeline:

Oct., 2005 – Former Toronto Police Union chief Craig Bromell pitches the idea of a television series inspired by his life as a cop.
Dec., 2005 – CTV puts the project into development. E1 Entertainment (formerly Barna-Alper Productions) is brought on board to co-produce with Bromell’s 990 Multi Media.
Sept., 2007 – CTV initiates further development; commits to two-hour back-door pilot.
Jan., 2008 – Award-winning writer Alan DiFiore is brought on to re-write script. With Di Fiore on board and award-winning director John Fawcett tapped to helm, CTV commits its own equity investment in the backdoor pilot to ensure top talent is attached. Aaron Douglas is secured as the lead.
July, 2008 – Production of pilot begins in Toronto.
Sept., 2008 – Pilot delivered to CTV.
Oct., 2008 – Series bible delivered to CTV.
Nov., 2008 – CTV orders THE BRIDGE to series.
Dec., 2008 – CTV brings THE BRIDGE to CBS.
Feb., 2009 – E1 completes deal for CBS order of CTV’s THE BRIDGE for broadcast in the U.S.
May, 2009 – E1 Entertainment and 990 Multi Media begin production on the series.

“Once I jumped in with both feet, I thought the only way we were going to be successful at this was if I take my knowledge of the street plus the boundaries of a police station and made it as authentic as we could – as real as possible” said Craig Bromell, Executive Producer, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company.

Bromell’s time with the Toronto force was spent as an officer at 51 Division. The unit patrolled a district that ranged from the wealthy Rosedale neighbourhoods to the low-income Regent Park. Dividing these two opposing vicinities was a bridge.

“I started thinking deeper about the bridge that separated these two neighbourhoods and social classes and applied it to law enforcement in general” explains Bromell. “I found that there was also a bridge between the rich and the poor, the good guy and the bad guy, the rank-and-file and the brass. So we use the title as a metaphor for many different opposing elements.”

In the special two-hour series premiere (Friday, March 5 at 9 p.m. ET), beat cop Frank Leo is fed up. Bridge Division is understaffed, and good cops are being blamed for a spate of mysterious drug rip-offs. Then Frank’s mentor, framed by the corrupt police brass, commits suicide. When Frank realizes the brass won’t give his mentor a police funeral, it’s the last straw. He leads a walkout strike, putting his career and the careers of his entire division on the line. Then, when Frank and his fellow officers are blamed for an act of “Contagious Fire”, the brass sees the perfect opportunity to get rid of Frank once and for all. Frank realizes that in order to save himself and change things, he must take over the reigns of the Police Union. He soon finds himself thrust into a treacherous world of politics, intrigue and violence. And just as he’s become head of the Police Union, Frank is forced to make a critical decision that could ultimately bring him down.

THE BRIDGE also stars Paul Popowich (ANGELA’S EYES, TWICE IN A LIFETIME) as Frank’s partner and confidante Tommy Dunn; Gemini-Award nominee Inga Cadranel (RENT-A-GOALIE, MVP) as Jill, the free-spirited cop on the force; Frank Cassini (INTELLIGENCE) as Staff Sergeant Bernie Kantor; Theresa Joy (ALL THE GOOD ONES ARE MARRIED, Sixty Days) as feisty tomboy Police Constable Billy; Ona Grauer (STARGATE SG-1 and STARGATE ATLANTIS) as beautiful, passionate prosecutor Abby St. James; Michael Murphy (Away from Her, X-Men: The Last Stand) as Chief of Police, and political animal, Ed Wycoff; and two-time Emmy Award winner Stuart Margolin (THE ROCKFORD FILES) as Frank’s father, Vic Leo.

THE BRIDGE is produced by E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions, in association with CTV and CBS Paramount Network Television. Executive Producers are Craig Bromell, Laszlo Barna, Adam J. Shully, Alan Di Fiore and Robert Wertheimer. Wendy Grean is producer. CTV’s Production Executive is Brett Burlock. Susanne Boyce is President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc.

Olympic Games Launch Pad: New CTV Original Series HICCUPS, DAN FOR MAYOR, and THE BRIDGE Get Post-Olympic Games Premieres

Date: February 2, 2010
Source: CTV Media

 

Toronto, ON (February 2, 2010) – CTV announced today it has strategically scheduled three new Original Canadian series to debut next month, immediately following the conclusion of the VANCOUVER 2010 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. The three series will benefit from weeks of promotion during what is to be one of the most-watched television events of the year.

Aaron Douglas heats up Friday Nights in new police drama THE BRIDGE, March 5

The much-anticipated premiere of CTV’s newest one-hour original drama series, THE BRIDGE. Starring BATTLESTAR GALACTICA’s Aaron Douglas, THE BRIDGE is an authentic and unique twist on the police procedural told through the lens of a charismatic police union leader. The series debuts Friday, March 5 at 9 p.m. ET with a special two-hour series premiere before moving to its regular Fridays at 10 p.m. ET timeslot beginning March 12 on CTV.

Episodes of HICCUPS, DAN FOR MAYOR and THE BRIDGE will also be available on demand in HD on the CTV Video Player at CTV.ca following their television broadcast. HICCUPS and DAN FOR MAYOR also air Saturdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT and 8:30 p.m. ET/PT beginning March 6 on The Comedy Network and will also be available for purchase from popular download sites.

THE BRIDGE
After the rank and file unanimously vote tough and dedicated street cop Frank Leo (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA’s Aaron Douglas) into office as the police union’s dynamic leader, he begins his quest to put street cops first and clean up the force from the ground up as he battles criminals on the street, police department brass and corruption in the ranks. But the old boys’ network running the police force and the city’s self-serving politicians are not about to sit idly by while a former street cop makes up his own rules. Frank walks the thin blue line as he battles criminals on the streets, corruption in the ranks and the politically motivated department brass, letting nothing stop him from fulfilling his unwavering vow that when cops are in trouble, he will be there to protect the protectors.

THE BRIDGE also stars Paul Popowich (ANGELA’S EYES, I ME WED); Inga Cadranel (RENT-A-GOALIE, MVP); Frank Cassini (Vice, INTELLIGENCE); Theresa Joy (ALL THE GOOD ONES ARE MARRIED, Sixty Days); Ona Grauer (STARGATE SG-1 and STARGATE ATLANTIS); Michael Murphy (Away from Her, X-Men: The Last Stand); and Stuart Margolin (THE ROCKFORD FILES, TOM STONE).

Note: The below is a snippet from the CBS Press Release where THE BRIDGE is mentioned. To read the full Press Release, click HERE.

 

CBS ANNOUNCES 2009-2010 PRIMETIME SCHEDULE

Date: May 20, 2009
Source: CBS Media Releases

 

Ordered for midseason is a new fast-paced medical drama, MIAMI TRAUMA, from executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer; the new police drama THE BRIDGE; the returning comedy RULES OF ENGAGEMENT; and the new alternative series ARRANGED MARRIAGE and UNDERCOVER BOSS.

The new MIDSEASON DRAMAS:

THE BRIDGE is a drama about a tough and dedicated police officer who is voted to become the police union’s dynamic leader. To serve the public as well as his 8,000 fellow officers, charismatic Frank Leo (Aaron Douglas) battles criminals on the street, corruption in the ranks and his own bosses. On the force is his able partner and confidante Tommy Dunn (Paul Popowich), who rides with Frank across the bridge that spans the divide between the rich and the poor in the area they patrol; Staff Sergeant Bernie Kantor (Frank Cassini), a voice of reason and moral sounding board; Jill (Inga Cadranel), a detective with a lot of attitude who is moving up the ranks; Billy (Theresa Joy), a young female cop who is determined to prove herself to the guys; and Ed Wycoff (Michael Murphy), the shrewd Chief of Police. Abby St. James (Ona Grauer) is a sharp prosecutor who begins working with the police union, and shares a mutual attraction with Frank. In his new position, Frank Leo takes on the politically-motivated department brass… and makes many powerful enemies in the process. Craig Bromell, Adam J. Shully, Laszlo Barna, Alan Di Fiore and Robert Wertheimer are executive producers for E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions in association with CTV and CBS Television Studios.

E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions Inc. Announce Start of Production on CTV/CBS Original Canadian drama series, THE BRIDGE

Date: April 24, 2009
Source: CTV Media CTV Programs CTV Announcements

 

E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions Inc.
Announce Start of Production on CTV/CBS Original Canadian drama series, THE BRIDGE
– Guest Directors include Helen Shaver and Stuart Margolin –
– Five-time Gemini Award winner Alan Di Fiore heads writing team –

 

Toronto, ON (April 24, 2009) — E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions, in association with CTV and CBS Paramount Network Television announce that principal photography is underway on the original Canadian drama series, The Bridge.

Originally commissioned as a two-hour movie of the week and back-door pilot by CTV, 11 episodes will be shot on location in and around Toronto until August 12 to round out the first season. This start of production follows February’s (2009) joint announcement by CTV and CBS of the deal to broadcast The Bridge in the United States. The Bridge is the third series from E1 Entertainment to be picked up by a high-profile U.S. network in the last 18 months, and the first for 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company. The CBS deal also marks the third Canadian drama series from CTV to be picked up by a major U.S. network in the last 20 months.

Informed by the insights of veteran insider and outspoken former Toronto police union head Craig Bromell, The Bridge reveals the struggle of street cops who not only battle criminals, but also their own bosses in order to protect society and, ultimately, themselves. The series will take viewers beyond the blue line, offering a glimpse of the police, power and politics that unfold behind the scenes.

The Bridge follows fictional character Frank Leo (played by Aaron Douglas, Battlestar Galactica) and his climb from street cop to union head where he begins his quest to clean up the force. But the old boys network running the police force, and the city’s self-serving politicians, won’t sit idly by while a former street cop makes up his own rules.

The Bridge stars Aaron Douglas (Battlestar Galactica; Smallville) as outspoken union head Frank Leo; Paul Popowich (Angela’s Eyes; I Me Wed) as Frank’s partner and confidante Tommy Dunn; Gemini Award nominee Inga Cadranel (Rent-a-Goalie; M.V.P.) as Jill, the free-spirited detective on the force; Genadijs Dolganovs (Max Payne; Jeff Ltd.) as Jill’s partner, Alex Volkolev; Frank Cassini (Vice; Intelligence) as Staff Sergeant Bernie Kantor; Theresa Joy (All the Good Ones are Married; Sixty Days) as the feisty tomboy Police Constable, Billy; Ona Grauer (Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis) as the beautiful, passionate prosecutor, Abby St. James; Michael Murphy (Away From Her; X-Men:The Last Stand) as Chief of Police and political animal, Ed Wycoff, and two-time Emmy Award Winner Stuart Margolin (The Rockford Files, Tom Stone) as Frank’s father, Vic Leo.

Slated to direct the series are Gemini Award winners John Fawcett (Da Vinci’s Inquest) and Holly Dale (Durham County); Daytime Emmy Award winner Paul Kaufman (Run the Wild Fields); Genie and Gemini Award winner Helen Shaver (We All Fall Down/Just Cause) and two-time Emmy Award winner Stuart Margolin (Rockford Files). Heading up the writing team is five-time Gemini Award winner and six-time nominee, Alan Di Fiore (Da Vinci’s Inquest, The Life).

The Bridge is produced by E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Company and Jonsworth Productions, in association with CTV and CBS Paramount Network Television. Executive Producers are Craig Bromell, Laszlo Barna, Adam J. Shully, Alan Di Fiore and Robert Wertheimer. Wendy Grean is producer. CTV’s Production Executive is Brett Burlock. Susanne Boyce is President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc.

The Bridge is produced with the participation of the Canadian Television Fund created by the Government of Canada and the Canadian cable industry, and with the assistance of the Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit and the Ontario Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Distributed worldwide by E1 Entertainment.

CTV’s THE BRIDGE Picked Up by CBS for U.S. Broadcast

Date: February 19, 2009
Source: CTV Media Releases

 

– CTV joins with CBS on second production –
– Becomes third Canadian drama series to air on a major U.S. network –
– Independent studio E1 Entertainment to begin production in Spring –

 

Los Angeles, CA and Toronto, ON (February 19, 2009) – CTV’s original Canadian drama series THE BRIDGE has been picked up by CBS for broadcast in the United States, the two networks announced today. After screening the pilot and ordering the series in November 2008, CTV shared the pilot with top executives at CBS late last year. The deal further develops CTV’s relationship with CBS, currently partners on the North American hit drama FLASHPOINT.

In development since 2005, CTV originally commissioned the production of a two-hour movie of the week and back-door pilot, shot in Toronto last summer. Inspired by the insights of veteran insider and outspoken former Toronto police union head Craig Bromell, THE BRIDGE provides an unflinching look at the struggle street cops face as they battle criminals – and their own bosses – in order to protect society and, ultimately, themselves. E1 Entertainment will begin production of THE BRIDGE in late spring in Toronto and will distribute the series internationally.

THE BRIDGE becomes the third Canadian drama series in under 18 months, all from CTV, to be picked up by a major U.S. network, following in the footsteps of FLASHPOINT and the upcoming drama THE LISTENER (NBC).

“We look forward to working with our creative partners at CBS, Nancy Tellem, Nina Tassler and David Stapf, in bringing yet another great Canadian production to a North American audience,” said Susanne Boyce, President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc. “Craig Bromell and Alan Di Fiore and their teams at E1 and 990 have done a beautiful job in creating a distinct and authentic view of life behind the scenes of a modern police force.”

“Like FLASHPOINT, we see THE BRIDGE as a series that works creatively and financially for both our network and studio — and importantly, for CBS Television viewers,” said Nancy Tellem, President, CBS Paramount Network Television Entertainment Group. “Nina {Tassler} and David {Stapf} both consider THE BRIDGE a high-quality, compelling drama that fits with the network’s line-up and the studio’s roster, respectively. And, we all look forward to working again with our creative partners at CTV. Together, we’ve already launched an exciting new show and a successful new model to deliver programming to the North American market.”

Written by five-time Gemini Award winner and six-time nominee Alan Di Fiore (DA VINCI’S INQUEST, THE LIFE, THE HANDLER), THE BRIDGE peels away the veneer of a big-city police force to reveal the political machinations underneath. After the rank and file unanimously vote street cop Frank Leo (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA’S Aaron Douglas) into office as union head, he begins his quest to put street cops first and clean up the force from the ground up. But the old boys’ network running the police force and the city’s self-serving politicians are not about to sit idly by while a former street cop makes up his own rules. Frank walks a thin blue line as he battles wiretaps and a concerted campaign to bring him down, letting nothing stop him from fulfilling his unwavering vow that when cops are in trouble, he will be there.

THE BRIDGE Development Timeline
Oct., 2005 – Former Toronto Police Union chief Craig Bromell pitches the idea of a television series inspired by his life as a cop.
Dec., 2005 – The project is put into development. Barna-Alper Productions is brought on board to co-produce with Bromell’s 990 Multi Media.
Sept., 2007 – CTV initiates further development; commits to two-hour MOW/back-door pilot.
Jan., 2008 – CTV suggests award-winning writer Alan DiFiore to re-write script. With Di Fiore on board and award-winning director John Fawcett tapped to helm the MOW, CTV commits its own equity investment in the MOW to ensure top talent is attached to the project. At CTV’s suggestion, Aaron Douglas is secured as the lead.
July, 2008 – Production of MOW/pilot begins in Toronto.
Sept., 2008 – MOW/pilot delivered to CTV.
Oct., 2008 – Series bible delivered to CTV.
Nov., 2008 – CTV orders THE BRIDGE to series.
Dec., 2008 – CTV brings THE BRIDGE to CBS.
Feb., 2009 – CBS orders CTV’s THE BRIDGE for broadcast in the U.S.
May, 2009 – Production scheduled to begin on series by E1 Entertainment.

“With THE BRIDGE, we are setting out to make the most realistic drama about cops ever seen on TV, and are thrilled that it will be broadcast not only on CTV in Canada but by CBS in the U.S. as well,” said Craig Bromell, Executive Producer, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company. “The series will expose the inner workings of a big city police force – with compelling, hard-hitting storylines revolving around the police, power and politics behind the blue line. We are grateful to CTV’s Ivan Fecan and Susanne Boyce who were with us from the beginning and look forward to reaching an even broader audience through our new relationship with CBS and Nina Tassler.”

THE BRIDGE stars Aaron Douglas (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, SMALLVILLE) as outspoken union head Frank Leo; Paul Popowich (ANGELA’S EYES, I ME WED) as Frank’s partner and confidante Tommy Dunn; Gemini-Award nominee Inga Cadranel (RENT-A-GOALIE, MVP) as Jill, the free-spirited cop on the force; Frank Cassini (Vice, INTELLIGENCE) as Staff Sergeant Bernie Kantor; Theresa Joy (ALL THE GOOD ONES ARE MARRIED, Sixty Days) as feisty tomboy Police Constable Billy; Ona Grauer (STARGATE SG-1 and STARGATE ATLANTIS) as beautiful, passionate prosecutor Abby St. James; Michael Murphy (Away from Her, X-Men: The Last Stand) as Chief of Police, and political animal, Ed Wycoff; and two-time Emmy Award winner Stuart Margolin (THE ROCKFORD FILES, TOM STONE) as Frank’s father, Vic Leo.

THE BRIDGE is produced by E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions, in association with CTV and CBS Paramount Network Television. Executive Producers are Craig Bromell, Laszlo Barna, Adam J. Shully, Alan Di Fiore and Robert Wertheimer. Wendy Grean is producer. CTV’s Production Executive is Brett Burlock. Susanne Boyce is President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc.

CBS and CTV join forces again – this time for the new police drama “The Bridge”

Date: February 19, 2009
Source: CBS Media Releases

 

CBS AND CTV JOIN FORCES AGAIN – THIS TIME FOR THE NEW POLICE DRAMA “THE BRIDGE”
Drama Series Pickup Follows Successful CBS/CTV Collaboration for “Flashpoint”
Series Licensed from Independent Studio E1 Entertainment

 

CBS Television Network and CBS Paramount Network Television have joined forces with CTV, Canada’s largest privately owned English language broadcast network, for the new police drama THE BRIDGE. CBS has ordered 13 episodes of THE BRIDGE, which will be broadcast next season on the CBS Television Network in the U.S. and on CTV in Canada. CBS has licensed the series from E1 Entertainment, a Toronto-based independent production studio.

The broadcast of THE BRIDGE marks the second recent collaboration between the U.S. media company and the leading Canadian broadcaster to present a prime time television series. Last year, CBS and CTV joined forces for “Flashpoint,” which was the most watched original drama in the U.S. last summer and currently wins its time period on Friday nights, boosting the year ago time period by +37% in viewers. It also currently ranks as Canada’s most watched original drama series.

THE BRIDGE is inspired by the insights of veteran insider and outspoken former Toronto police union head, Craig Bromell. It’s a procedural drama through the unique lens of a charismatic and dynamic union leader who is battling criminals on the street and fighting his own bosses, and sometimes corruption in the ranks, to protect his fellow officers.

THE BRIDGE was originally developed and commissioned by CTV as a two-hour movie and backdoor pilot with E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions. After ordering the series in November 2008, CTV shared the pilot with top executives at CBS late last year. Going forward, these companies will produce the series in association with CTV and CBS Paramount Network Television.

“Like ‘Flashpoint,’ we see ‘The Bridge’ as a series that works creatively and financially for both our network and studio — and importantly, for CBS Television viewers,” said Nancy Tellem, President, CBS Paramount Network Television Entertainment Group. “Nina [Tassler] and David [Stapf] both consider ‘The Bridge’ a high-quality, compelling drama that fits with the network’s lineup and the studio’s roster, respectively. And, we all look forward to working again with our creative partners at CTV. Together, we’ve already launched an exciting new show and a successful new model to deliver programming to the North American market.”

“We look forward to working with our creative partners at CBS in bringing yet another great Canadian production to a North American audience,” said Susanne Boyce, President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc. “Craig Bromell and Alan Di Fiore have done a beautiful job in creating a distinct and authentic view of life behind the scenes of a modern police force.”

“This marks E1 Entertainment’s first drama series for CBS and continues a long and successful relationship with CTV,” said John Morayniss, CEO of E1 Television. “We’re thrilled to be working with our partners at 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and look forward to representing the series internationally and bringing it to audiences worldwide.”

Production on THE BRIDGE is scheduled to begin in late spring in Toronto.

THE BRIDGE stars Aaron Douglas (“Battlestar Galactica,” “Smallville”), Paul Popowich (“Angela’s Eyes”), Inga Cadranel (“Rent-a-Goalie”), Frank Cassini (“Vice”), Theresa Joy (“All the Good Ones are Married”), Ona Grauer (“Stargate SG-1”), Michael Murphy (“X-Men: The Last Stand”) and two-time Emmy Award-winner Stuart Margolin (“The Rockford Files”).

THE BRIDGE is produced by E1 Entertainment, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions in association with CTV and CBS Paramount Network Television.

Craig Bromell, Laszlo Barna, Adam J. Shully, Alan Di Fiore and Robert Wertheimer are executive producers. Wendy Grean is producer.

As mentioned previously, THE BRIDGE has been picked up and will be made into a tv series. Below is the official press release announcing it.

 

CTV Crosses THE BRIDGE: New Drama Series Joins CTV’s Original Production Slate

Date: November 3, 2008
Source: CNW Group

 

CTV Orders New Drama Series THE BRIDGE – CTV Crosses THE BRIDGE: New Drama Series Joins CTV’s Original Production Slate
– Compelling and provocative cop drama executive-produced by Toronto Police veteran Craig Bromell –

 

Toronto, Ontario (November 3, 2008) – CTV announced today the order of a new one-hour original Canadian drama series, THE BRIDGE. Based on the insights of veteran insider and outspoken former Toronto police union head Craig Bromell, CTV has ordered 11, one-hour episodes, following the production of a two-hour pilot shot in Toronto last summer. THE BRIDGE provides an unflinching look at the struggle street cops face as they not only battle criminals – but also their own bosses – in order to protect society and, ultimately, themselves.

Produced by Barna-Alper Productions, an Entertainment One company, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions, in association with CTV, production of THE BRIDGE is scheduled to begin in 2009. THE BRIDGE becomes the third, new original drama series to be ordered by CTV in the last year, joining last summer’s breakout hit FLASHPOINT and THE LISTENER, currently in production.

“Craig Bromell is one of the most galvanizing figures in the history of policing in Canada,” said Susanne Boyce, President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc. “We look forward to working with him on THE BRIDGE, and bringing to Canadian audiences a distinct and authentic view of life behind the scenes of a modern police force.”

“We set out to make the most realistic two-hour movie drama about cops ever seen on TV, and it has paid off,” said Craig Bromell, Executive Producer, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company. “We expose the inner workings of a big city police force – the police, power and politics behind the blue line. It’s something that hasn’t been seen before on TV, and we’re grateful to CTV for this opportunity. We’re looking forward to collaborating with Alan Di Fiore to create even more compelling, hard-hitting storylines for the series.”

“We are very excited to be able to bring to our new company this gritty, realistic series that is brought to life by Alan Di Fiore and produced by CTV,” said Laszlo Barna, Executive Producer, Barna-Alper Productions, an Entertainment One company.

Written by five-time Gemini Award winner and six-time nominee Alan Di Fiore (DA VINCI’S INQUEST, THE LIFE, THE HANDLER), THE BRIDGE peels away the veneer of a big-city Canadian police force to reveal the political machinations underneath. After the rank and file unanimously vote street cop Frank Leo (Aaron Douglas) into office as union head, he begins his quest to put street cops first and clean up the force from the ground up.

But the old boys’ network running the police force and the city’s self-serving politicians are not about to sit idly by while a former street cop makes up his own rules. Frank walks a thin blue line as he battles wiretaps and a concerted campaign to bring him down, letting nothing stop him from fulfilling his unwavering vow that when cops are in trouble, the union will be there.

THE BRIDGE stars Aaron Douglas (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, SMALLVILLE) as outspoken union head Frank Leo; Paul Popowich (ANGELA’S EYES, I ME WED) as Frank’s partner and confidante Tommy Dunn; Gemini-Award nominee Inga Cadranel (RENT-A-GOALIE, MVP) as Jill, the free-spirited cop on the force; Frank Cassini (Vice, INTELLIGENCE) as Staff Sergeant Bernie Kantor; Theresa Joy (ALL THE GOOD ONES ARE MARRIED, Sixty Days) as feisty tomboy Police Constable Billy; Ona Grauer (STARGATE SG-1 and STARGATE ATLANTIS) as beautiful, passionate prosecutor Abby St. James; Michael Murphy (Away from Her, X-Men: The Last Stand) as Chief of Police, and political animal, Ed Wycoff; and two-time Emmy Award winner Stuart Margolin (THE ROCKFORD FILES, TOM STONE) as Frank’s father, Vic Leo.

THE BRIDGE is produced by Barna-Alper Productions, 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company and Jonsworth Productions, in association with CTV. Executive Producers are Craig Bromell, Laszlo Barna, Adam J. Shully, Alan Di Fiore and Robert Wertheimer. Wendy Grean is producer. CTV’s Production Executive is Brett Burlock. Susanne Boyce is President, Creative, Content and Channels, CTV Inc.

 

ABOUT 990 MULTI MEDIA ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY:
990 Multi Media Entertainment Company is a Canadian production company that was jointly founded in 2005 by Craig Bromell and Adam J. Shully. Their goal is to tell the “best police stories out there” across a variety of mediums, including television series, feature films and documentaries as well as acquiring dramatic, autobiographical and biographical literary works to translate into moving images. Bromell’s 26 years on the Toronto Police Force coupled with Shully’s 25 year history in the film and television industry affords 990 Multi Media Entertainment Company a unique voice and ability to tell these stories. THE BRIDGE is the company’s first television venture with producing partner Barna-Alper Productions.

ABOUT BARNA-ALPER PRODUCTIONS:
Barna-Alper Productions is one of Canada’s leading independent production companies. Renowned for its excellent dramatic and documentary production, the company has garnered numerous national and international awards over the years. The team is led by Laszlo Barna, a passionate advocate for the Canadian film and television industry. The company’s dramatic series slate is crowned by seven seasons of CBC’s DA VINCI’S INQUEST, best drama, and award-winning series BLUE MURDER and DA KINK IN MY HAIR. Recent television movies include CELINE, a musical biopic about Céline Dion; the acclaimed SHANIA: A LIFE IN EIGHT ALBUMS; CHOICE: THE HENRY MORGENTALER STORY and the mini-series, OCTOBER 1970. With over 25 years of experience, Barna-Alper continues making productions that are relevant to audiences around the world. Barna Alper along with Blueprint Entertainment, Oasis International and Maximum Films was recently acquired by Entertainment One. For more information, visit www.bap.ca.

ABOUT CTV:
CTV, Canada’s largest private broadcaster, offers a wide range of quality news, sports, information, and entertainment programming. It has the number-one national newscast, CTV NATIONAL NEWS WITH LLOYD ROBERTSON, and is the number-one choice for prime-time viewing. CTVglobemedia Inc. is Canada’s premier multi-media company which owns CTV Inc. and The Globe and Mail. CTV Inc. also owns radio stations across the country, and leading national specialty channels. Other CTVglobemedia investments include an interest in Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, and in Dome Productions, a North American leader in the provision of mobile high definition production facilities. More information about CTV may be found on the company website at www.ctv.ca.