Germany will soon be haunted once more. A second season of the popular British comedy format “Ghosts,” a show about a couple who inherit a dilapidated country house teeming with spectral residents from different eras, has been confirmed, signaling continued international success for BBC Studios. The announcement, made at the Series Mania festival in Lille, France, underscores the growing appetite for the quirky, heartwarming series beyond its U.K. Origins. This confirmation of “Ghosts” season two in Germany builds on the show’s already impressive global footprint.
Eva Holtmann, head of fiction for BBC Studios in Germany, shared the news with attendees at the Series Mania panel. “We’re so happy that we’re going to produce a second season, so ‘Ghosts’ will be coming back to Germany,” she said, according to reports. “It was the perfect ensemble, and we are producing that in the summer, again for our commissioner, ARD and WDR.” The German adaptation, like others springing up around the world, demonstrates the adaptability and broad appeal of the original concept.
From ‘Horrible Histories’ to Global Phenomenon
The origins of “Ghosts” lie in the creative minds behind the popular children’s television program “Horrible Histories,” known for its humorous and educational approach to historical events. The series first premiered on the BBC in 2019 and quickly gained a dedicated following in the United Kingdom. The show’s success prompted a swift commission for a U.S. Adaptation on CBS, where it has become a ratings hit, currently running for five seasons with a sixth and seventh already greenlit, according to Variety.
The format’s ability to translate across cultures is a key factor in its widespread appeal. BBC Studios has actively fostered this expansion, with adaptations now in various stages of development and production across Europe and beyond. Beyond Germany, a French version is slated for release on Disney+ in 2025, and a Greek adaptation debuted on Disney’s Star channel the same year. Earlier in 2024, TV Nova, a Czech broadcaster, announced plans for a local version of the show.
A Collaborative Approach to International Success
The success of “Ghosts” isn’t simply about a clever premise; it’s as well a testament to the collaborative spirit within BBC Studios. Lea Gimonneau-Sorrel, series producer for BBC Studios France, highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and experience between teams working on different adaptations. “When we collaborate, it can happen at various stages of the project,” she explained. “For ‘Ghosts,’ we had the show commissioned before [Germany] so were able to share advice about the pitch deck, for example. And [Germany] was in preparation before we were, so you shared precious advice on, for example, not having too many ghosts in the same room.” This internal knowledge-sharing appears to be a crucial element in ensuring the quality and consistency of the various international versions.
The collaborative spirit extends beyond television. In the U.K., a “Ghosts” feature film is currently in production, further expanding the franchise’s reach. Details about the film’s plot and release date remain limited, but its existence demonstrates the enduring popularity of the series and the potential for further development of the “Ghosts” universe.
Adapting to Local Audiences
Even as the core concept of “Ghosts” remains consistent across adaptations – a living couple navigating life with a house full of historical specters – each version is tailored to resonate with local audiences. This involves casting local actors, incorporating culturally relevant historical figures, and adjusting the humor to suit regional sensibilities. The German adaptation, for example, will feature ghosts representing different periods of German history, offering a unique perspective on the country’s past. This localization is vital for ensuring the show’s success in recent markets.
The show’s enduring appeal also lies in its ability to blend comedy with genuine emotional depth. The ghosts, despite their often-eccentric personalities, are portrayed as complex characters with relatable struggles and desires. This allows audiences to connect with them on a personal level, creating a sense of empathy and investment in their stories. The interplay between the living characters and the ghosts provides ample opportunities for both humor and heartfelt moments.
The success of “Ghosts” also reflects a broader trend in television towards feel-good, family-friendly programming. In a media landscape often dominated by dark and gritty dramas, the show offers a refreshing alternative – a lighthearted and optimistic comedy that appeals to a wide range of viewers. This has contributed to its popularity in both the U.K. And the U.S., and is likely to be a key factor in its continued success internationally.
Fans in Germany can anticipate the return of the ghostly ensemble later this year, with production scheduled to begin in the summer. ARD and WDR, the German public broadcasters commissioning the series, have yet to announce a specific premiere date, but updates will be available through their official channels. The continued expansion of the “Ghosts” franchise demonstrates the power of a well-crafted format and the importance of international collaboration in the television industry.
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