HBO Max Joins Russell T Davies ’80s Drama Boys

HBO Max has signed on as the exclusive U.S. home of the 1980s-set drama Boys (working title), in partnership with the U.K.’s Channel 4, in addition to adding four new stand-up comedy specials to its roster.

The five-part series charts the emotional journey of five friends during the 1980s, a decade that was marked by the rise of AIDS. Produced by RED Production Company, the project is written and executive produced by Russell T Davies (A Very English Scandal, Years and Years, Queer as Folk, Doctor Who).

Principal photography on the project began in October and is scheduled to air in the U.K. in 2020.

“It is our delight to be collaborating with the talented Russell T Davies,” said Jeniffer Kim, senior VP of international originals at HBO Max. “He has crafted a beautiful coming of age story, exploring the excitement of new friendships and self-discovery during a period when there were so many unknowns. Russell’s mastery is so evident throughout and with Nicola’s producing expertise and Ch4’s collaboration, we at HBO Max are thrilled to partner in sharing this moving story.”

Davies commented: “This was an astonishing decade when a sudden new virus meant life became more stark, vivid and precious than ever before. I’ve carried these stories with me for years, and it’s an honor to find them a home with HBO Max.”

Nicola Shindler, executive producer and CEO of RED Production Company, added: “We’re delighted that Boys has found its U.S. home on HBO Max, and we look forward to sharing this extraordinary story with viewers next year.”

Additionally, tapping into existing talent across the WarnerMedia portfolio, the streamer is teaming up with Tracy Morgan (The Last O.G.), John Early (Search Party) and rising stars Rose Matafeo, Edinburgh Comedy Award winner, and Ahir Shah, double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, for four new stand-up comedy specials.

“We are incredibly proud to showcase this expansive range of comedic talent on HBO Max,” said Suzanna Makkos, executive VP of original programming, comedy and animation at HBO Max. “From legends to newcomers, this impressive slate of specials will complement the library of premium stand-up specials that HBO has become known for.”