Disney+ Boosts British Comedy Slate, Citing Global Need for Laughter

Global originals chief Eric Schrier has announced Disney+ is set to significantly increase its investment in British comedy series. Speaking at Content London, Schrier highlighted a global discourse often dominated by serious issues, stating, "We think the world can use some comedy right now." This strategic shift aims to diversify the platform's content offering, building on the success of shows like "Rivals" and anticipating new productions.

Key Takeaways

• Disney+ is actively seeking more British comedy content.

• The move is a response to the current global climate and a perceived need for humour.

• The platform is encouraging producers to pitch ambitious and risk-embracing ideas.

• Rivals" and the upcoming "Alice & Steve" are cited as examples of successful or promising UK productions.

• Disney+ is expanding its focus on local market productions globally, entering "phase two" of its evolution.

A Push for British Humour

Schrier, President of Disney TV Studios and Global Original Television Strategy at Disney Entertainment, revealed that while several dramas are in development in the UK, comedy has not been a recent trend for the platform. He expressed a desire to change this, urging producers to bring bold and original concepts to Disney+'s local executives. "You have to build risk into the system," Schrier advised, emphasizing that a creative business cannot succeed without embracing the possibility of failure.

To illustrate the potential, a trailer for the upcoming comedy-drama "Alice & Steve" was showcased. The series stars Jermaine Clement and Nicola Walker as platonic friends whose relationship is tested when he starts dating her daughter. Produced by Clerkenwell Films, the makers of "Baby Reindeer," the show is directed by Tom Kingsley and created by Sophie Goodhart.

Building on Success and Future Strategy

The announcement follows the success of "Rivals," an adaptation of Jilly Cooper's novel, which Schrier described as a "huge hit" that has helped establish Disney+ in the UK and internationally. The news also comes shortly after reports of Nicholas Hoult and Daisy Edgar-Jones starring in "Mosquito," a British comedy exploring a young couple's relationship.

This strategic pivot aligns with Disney CEO Bob Iger's earlier statements about increasing local production in targeted international markets. Disney+ has already launched 100 series across more than 20 territories this year, with the UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Korea, Turkey, and Brazil being priority regions. Schrier also touched upon Disney's use of Hulu as its international platform for more adult-skewing content, allowing for edgier productions than other Disney brands. He encouraged producers not to pitch children's and family content, as this is largely developed in-house.

Partnerships and Content Exclusivity

Schrier also discussed Disney+'s recent content-sharing agreements with broadcasters like ITV in the UK, Atresmedia in Spain, and ZDF Studios in Germany. He acknowledged the significant influence of free-to-air broadcasters in their respective markets. While acknowledging that exclusivity is not always the primary consideration for Disney+, he noted that producers often still prefer selling global rights for substantial upfront fees, a model largely shaped by Netflix.

Additionally, Schrier announced "The Devil in My DMs," a four-part Hulu true-crime series from UK producer Lightbox, which will explore the intersection of social media and crime. This series is part of Disney+'s broader strategy to offer diverse content across its global platforms.

Sources

• Disney+ Eyeing More British Comedies, Says Eric Schrier, Deadline.