Fox STAR Studios (a pan-Asian joint venture between Twentieth Century Fox and STAR), announced its expansion plans into the Tamil film industry by creating an exclusive association with AR Murugadoss, director of one of the biggest blockbusters in recent times - Ghajini.

The deal with Fox STAR Studios India is exclusive and includes the development and production of Tamil films. AR Murugadoss in his new avatar will play the role of a creative producer and due to his long standing successful association with the Tamil Film Industry will be able to access the finest talent and content to recreate the magic with Fox STAR Studios

Vijay Singh, CEO of Fox Star Studios India said, "Tamil films constitute India's most popular genre after Bollywood films, and we are delighted to be accessing this growing segment by associating with one of the most successful writer -directors in Tamil and Hindi cinema.

Murugadoss has an impeccable track record, and has demonstrated great understanding of the Tamil and Hindi audiences. We are committed to building relationships with the best in Indian cinema and are delighted to have Murugadoss as part of the Fox Star family."

He also added, "The Tamil Film Industry is growing at a compounded annual growth rate of 15% and we would like to be a part of that growth wave"

Commenting on this association, AR Murugadoss said, "I am extremely excited to work with Fox STAR Studios India. It gives me a chance to use my deep association with the Tamil film industry to tell exciting new stories with our established stars and also to promote new talent.

This partnership will also bring to Tamil cinema, learnings from the best technical and creative people, from around the world."

Sanford Panitch, President of Fox International Productions, said: "We've been looking at the Tamil market for quite some time and from the moment we met Murugadoss, we knew we have found a like-minded partner to lead us there."

Uday Shankar, CEO of STAR India also seemed extremely happy with this association. "I am delighted that Fox STAR India has extended its reach into Tamil cinema as this will help build further synergies across STAR's southern broadcasting footprint.

I have no doubt that working with a successful filmmaker like Murugadoss will allow us to connect deeply with the rapidly growing South Indian audience by providing compelling content that truly resonates with viewers."