Starz & BBC Worldwide Productions Align for Co-Pro Deal

BEVERLY HILLS: Starz Entertainment and BBC Worldwide Productions have entered into a multi-year agreement to develop, produce and distribute original programming.

The pact sees the two outfits working together to co-develop shows that will air on Starz. The new series will be one-hour dramas, with BBC Worldwide Productions producing in close partnership with Starz’ original programming team. Starz will then distribute the shows in the U.S. and Canada, while BBC Worldwide holds the international rights.

"When I came to Starz, we determined that forging strong international partnerships would play center stage in financing our ramp-up of dynamic original programming," said Chris Albrecht, the chairman and CEO of Starz. "This exciting partnership with BBC Worldwide Productions is a major step in that direction. It will allow us to provide Starz subscribers more original programming, while delivering enhanced opportunity across all our domestic distribution businesses including Anchor Bay and Starz Digital Media. Jane Tranter and the incredible teams at BBC Worldwide Productions and BBC Worldwide will be terrific partners, and we are very pleased to be able to extend our relationship with them through this venture."

Jane Tranter, the head of BBC Worldwide Productions, added, "We’re in a uniquely similar place to Starz. With Chris’s arrival, Starz made a name in originals and is defining themselves as a true player in the U.S. premium cable territory. At BBC Worldwide Productions, we’ve hit our stride in the scripted business after starting these efforts just over two years ago. Working with Starz on Torchwood: Miracle Day has been a collaborative and invigorating journey. We’re very much looking forward to bringing Starz’ subscribers more of the programming they’re coming to expect—intelligent, groundbreaking, and honest storytelling, which is synonymous with our BBC roots and values."

"Our partnership with BBC Worldwide Productions and BBC Worldwide allows Starz to more quickly capitalize on the strategic opportunity presented by the increasing global consumption of U.S. premium TV series," added John Penney, the executive VP of strategy and business development for Starz.