Hearst Networks Unveils New Unit for Digital-First Brands

Hearst Networks has launched a new business unit to develop content brands across digital, audio and emerging platforms, with a particular focus on YouTube.

Hearst Canvas will be based in Hearst Networks’ London offices, working across editorial development, talent management, publishing and commercial partnerships. Recruitment is underway for a creative director to lead the unit, which will outsource production to independent producers in the U.K. The launch comes on the heels of the success of mid-form commissions such as Cut to the Crime, History Crush and Two Sides of History.

“Hearst Canvas is an incredibly exciting development for our company: it represents a completely new opportunity to continue to grow our creative ambition by originating digitally-native content for YouTube and other social platforms,” said Heather Jones, chief creative officer for EMEA at Hearst Networks. “This is about testing bravely, learning fast, and unlocking new revenue-generating opportunities in the social and on-demand spaces, where audiences are increasingly choosing to spend their time.”

Jones added: “We plan to commission an ambitious slate of unscripted titles to trial as wide a range of shows as possible, giving ourselves the best chance of success in this high-growth space. We’re open for ideas, open for commercial partnerships, and ready to experiment.”

The first productions are slated to launch in early 2026.