BBC, PBS sign content production deal
January 20, 2015
The BBC, BBC Worldwide and American public service broadcaster PBS have struck a new deal to develop and deliver new programming. The partnership will seek to create content across a range of factual genres including natural history, science, history, religion and the arts.
The deal will encompass around eight to ten new programming specials across approximately 20 hours a year, with content in the first year including a new series for BBC One, Earth’s Natural Wonders. The programme will take viewers on a landmark tour of Earth, discovering connections between some incredible places and the life and death struggles of the animals and humans that inhabit them.
Other programmes in the deal include the remarkable story of one of the ‘dinosaur finds of the century’, Waking Giants, presented by Sir David Attenborough; and Super Nature: Flight Revealed, which uses cutting edge technology to reveal the secrets of flight – one of nature’s greatest innovations.
Natalie Humphreys, BBC Controller of Factual and Daytime Production, says: “PBS shares our commitment for impeccable editorial standards and our passion to be inventive in how we tell stories and to deliver new insights to audiences. These shared values make it a pleasure to work together.”
Matt Forde, Executive Vice President TV Sales and Co-Productions, BBC Worldwide North America, says: “This deal allows BBC and PBS to develop and deliver a wealth of the highest quality multi-genre factual content – which will entertain and inspire audiences across the country.”