Banijay Partners with Yoshimoto for Global Rights to 'You Laugh You Lose'

Banijay Entertainment and Yoshimoto Kogyo, one of Japan's largest entertainment groups, have formed a collaboration. Through this, Banijay has been able to procure global format rights for the long-standing comedic challenge show "You Laugh You Lose." This deal allows Banijay to spearhead adaptations across their 23 territories, leaving Yoshimoto to manage distribution duties in all other areas.

The show, first seen on Japanese TVs in 2006, tests groups of comedians in a strenuous 24-hour challenge placed within an engulfing real-world scenario. The situation evolves and becomes increasingly demanding as the day goes on, all under the persistent guideline of no laughter allowed- a single smile triggers an instant comedic forfeit. Unplanned celeb appearances and an unending stream of ridiculously absurd situations keep tension and withheld laughter mounting to the very end.

This acquisition strengthens Banijay's already substantial presence in comedic formats. The company currently produces “LOL: Last One Laughing” in 11 markets around the world. The recent Yoshimoto deal underlines the company's continuing appetite for validated format genres.

Yoshimoto Kogyo's Director and Vice President, Hiroshi Fujiwara, and Banijay's Head of Format Acquisitions, Helen Greatorex, sealed the deal. This also sets the stage for Banijay's third-party display for the London Screenings 2026, a lineup that also includes Studiocanal and Dreamspark's “Werewolves”, Tokyo Broadcasting System's “Ninja Warrior”, and “All Star Hide and Seek” from Troot and Rabbit Film.