Sky Expands Originals Slate

Sky has announced eight new commissions, bringing its slate of original series for 2018 to more than 50.

Of the platform’s upcoming originals, about half (24) are returning shows, including Riviera with Julia Stiles. Also returning is the comedy thriller Bounty Hunters. Gangs of London is a brand-new contemporary drama, co-commissioned with Cinemax. There are three brand-new comedies from Sky Arts’ Urban Myths series: When Bowie Met Bolan, The Dali and The Cooper and Public Enemy. Also on the new slate is Ronnie Wood: Artist in Residence for Sky Arts, and Shine TV’s Loot.

“There’s never been a more competitive time to be in the content business and I’m incredibly excited by the scale, quality and authenticity of the U.K. TV industry right now,” said Gary Davey, managing director of content at Sky. “Next year will see over 50 Sky original productions on air and over 20 of these will be returners—a testament to the popularity of our shows—and it doesn’t stop there, with our increased investment, the focus for 2018 remains getting even better on screen.”