Stephen GrahamS Matriarch Productions Signs Exclusive Deal with disney+ UK
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Disney+ is bolstering its UK content slate with a new first-look deal with Matriarch Productions, the company co-founded by acclaimed actor and Adolescence co-creator Stephen Graham and producer Hannah Walters.
The two-year agreement, announced today, will focus on developing both scripted and unscripted series, aiming to bring compelling British narratives to a global audience. This partnership signals Disney+’s continued investment in local storytelling and its commitment to expanding its presence in the UK market.
Expanding Disney+’s UK Footprint
Matriarch Productions is already collaborating with Disney+ on the boxing drama A Thousand Blows, currently in its second season and starring both Graham and Walters. The success of this series, alongside the recent award recognition for Netflix’s Adolescence, has significantly raised the profile of the production company.
According to a company release, the deal will “span original scripted and unscripted series, bringing compelling British stories to audiences around the world.” This strategic move allows disney+ to tap into Matriarch’s established creative network and expertise in producing high-quality, character-driven content.
A Focus on Underrepresented Voices
The partnership is particularly noteworthy for its emphasis on amplifying underrepresented voices within the UK creative landscape. Angela Jain, Head of Content, Disney+ EMEA, emphasized this point, stating, “Stephen and Hannah have proven they know how to tell bold, impactful stories and our vision also aligns with them around providing a platform for underrepresented voices in the UK.”
Jain further explained that Disney+ is dedicated to championing “distinctive, local stories that entertain and resonate with audiences,” positioning Matriarch Productions as an ideal partner in evolving their UK production strategy.
Graham and Walters expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are beyond thrilled to be working with Disney+ and through this creative partnership will strive to produce inspiring, entertaining and thought-provoking storytelling.” This shared vision promises a future of innovative and impactful content for Disney+ subscribers.
The deal underscores a growing trend of major streamers seeking to establish strong local production hubs to cater to diverse audiences and capitalize on regional talent. As Disney+ continues to expand its global reach, partnerships like this one will be crucial in delivering culturally relevant and engaging content.
Why: Disney+ signed a first-look deal with Matriarch Productions to bolster its UK content slate, tap into their creative network, and amplify underrepresented voices.
Who: The deal involves Disney+ and Matriarch Productions, co-founded by Stephen Graham and Hannah Walters. Angela Jain, Head of Content, Disney+ EMEA, played a key role in securing the partnership.
What: A two-year first-look deal was established, focusing on developing both scripted and unscripted series with compelling British narratives for a global audience. matriarch Productions is already collaborating with Disney+ on the boxing drama A Thousand Blows.
How did it end?: The deal was announced today and is set to last for two years. It is still in its early stages, but the partnership is expected to yield a range of new british series for Disney+. The success of A Thousand blows and Adolescence paved the way for this collaboration,and Disney+ hopes to continue expanding its UK presence through this partnership.
