Manchester creative executive Wayne Devlin has launched a new independent television format development company, Devlin Entertainment, focused on developing original entertainment formats for international broadcasters and streamers.
Devlin, an actor and singer from Trafford, studied method acting in Manchester, London and then New York. He is also known as one of the finest ‘Rat Pack style’ vocalists in the UK and has performed at the Golden Nugget Casino and the Flamingo Casino in Las Vegas.
The company debuts with its flagship format, The Crooner, a music-based talent show celebrating the timeless artistry of classic vocal performers. Inspired by the golden era of swing and big-band music, the series aims to uncover new performers capable of reviving the distinctive style made famous by legendary crooners.
The format draws inspiration from the rich legacy of crooning, a tradition kept alive by artists such as Robbie Williams and Michael Bublé, while honouring those who came before, including the likes of Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett.
READ MORE: UK Documentary Film Council appoints former Storyville chief as first CEO
Devlin Entertainment will concentrate on creating scalable entertainment properties designed for adaptation across global markets. The company’s development slate is centred on unscripted entertainment formats, particularly music-led competitions with strong international appeal.
Devlin, who serves as the company’s creative lead, said the aim is to bring a fresh approach to music formats by combining nostalgia with modern television storytelling: “The Crooner celebrates a timeless style of performance that audiences still love but which has rarely been explored in contemporary talent shows,” he explained. “We believe there is a real opportunity to create a format that connects classic music heritage with a new generation of performers and viewers.”
The format is currently being introduced to broadcasters and production partners internationally, with early discussions underway in several territories.
Devlin Entertainment is positioning itself as a creator-led company focused on original intellectual property and partnerships with established producers and broadcasters worldwide.
Devlin said he has recently worked alongside veteran television producer Nigel Hall, gaining insight into the development of some of the world’s most successful entertainment formats, including Stars in Their Eyes, The X Factor and Got Talent.
