BBC First for Netherlands
April 29, 2015
BBC Worldwide has confirmed the European launch of BBC First, the new drama channel, in The Netherlands on May 16th.
The fully localised channel is the new home of premium British scripted content. With all programming subtitled into Dutch, BBC First makes its European debut on terrestrial provider KPN, with further platforms to follow throughout the Benelux region.
The channel will launch with critically acclaimed series such as Wolf Hall – BBC Two’s highest rating programme for 13 years – and adventures including The Musketeers Series 2 as well as the latest series of regional favourites, Silent Witness and Last Tango in Halifax.
Paul Dempsey, President for Global Markets at BBC Worldwide said, “The Netherlands is an important territory for us and I am delighted that BBC First will make its European debut in this sophisticated market. We are immensely proud of this channel brand with BBC First promising to be the home of our very best fiction series. Our channel roll out here signifies the greater level of commitment BBC Worldwide is making to reach its global audiences.”
Jaap Postma, Director Consumer-market at KPN said, “Content is becoming increasingly important to our customers so we are keen to broaden the range of programming that we offer. All BBC channels are high quality, and this new channel brand brings together premium series and crime dramas with Dutch subtitles that make it easier to watch. We are very proud to be the launching partner for BBC First in The Netherlands. The channel will be free to watch at channel 23 for everybody that has Interactieve TV from KPN.”
The channel brand made its debut in Australia in 2014 and was the most successful non-sports launch on Foxtel since 2006.