CALIFORNIA: Sony Pictures Television International's (SPTI) top-rated German series produced for the RTL network has received eight German Comedy Awards nominations and seven German Television Awards nominations.

The annual German Comedy Awards recognises outstanding comedies and comedic performances in film, television, radio and in live standup. Similar to the Emmy Awards in the US, the German Television Awards which are held annually, recognises achievement in television.

SPTI International Productions executive VP Steve Kent, said, "All of us at SPTI are thrilled with not only the number of German Comedy Awards nominations and German Television Awards nominations, but also with the diversity of programming that is included in the recognition.

From our recurring hit shows like Die Camper, Nikola and Ritas Welt to our most recent endeavors like Ohne Worte, our success in Germany serves as an excellent model for demonstrating SPTI's commitment to producing quality television specifically targeted to the tastes of local-language audiences."

Sony Pictures Film and Television Production MD Christiane Ruff added, "Our strong relationship with RTL has played a significant role in the success of our local productions. The network's patience and support, on everything from concept development through scheduling, has been a tremendous asset from which both SPTI and RTL have benefited. The popularity of these series serves as a testament to all of the tremendously talented individuals that have contributed to the productions."

The German Comedy Awards, known as Der Deutsche Comedy Preis, are not only restricted to TV or movie comedies but also include radio comedy and live standup comedy on stage.

The primary focus for the awards is comedic performances broadcasted on TV. At its inception, in 1997, and in 1998, only one award was given per year, but since 1999, a variety of comedy categories were created and awarded.