El Estudio has acquired rights to adapt hit Australian comedy format “Here Come the Habibs” for Mexican audiences, partnering with Los Angeles-based Happy Accidents on the project.
The original series, which aired on Australia‘s Channel 9, broke ground as the first mainstream commercial TV comedy to feature a Middle Eastern family in leading roles. The fish-out-of-water comedy follows a Lebanese family who strike it rich through a lottery win and move into an upscale neighborhood, creating a culture clash with their more buttoned-up neighbors.
The format comes from Jungle Entertainment, the Australian production powerhouse behind “Population 11” (Stan), “Wakefield” (ABC), “No Activity” (adapted in over eight territories) and “Mr Inbetween” (FX).
Set to be reimagined in Mexico City, the adaptation aims to explore themes of class mobility, cultural identity and social integration through a distinctly Mexican lens.
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“El Estudio shares our vision for creating content that resonates across cultures while maintaining local authenticity,” said Happy Accidents co-CEOs Holly Hines and Eric Jarboe. “Jungle’s format ‘Here Come the Habibs’ is the perfect vehicle for showcasing the rich diversity of society, and the intersectional experience of family, through comedy. We’re excited to see this well-loved story reimagined in the vibrant tapestry of Mexico for new audiences.”
Pablo Cruz of El Estudio said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Happy Accidents to bring this exceptional format to Mexico. Their expertise in the U.S. and international markets, combined with our deep understanding of Mexican audiences, creates the perfect synergy for adapting this fascinating story.”
Development on the Mexican version kicks off immediately.