The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has renewed its existing rating agreement with Netflix. The partnership allows Netflix to generate age ratings and content advice in line with BBFC Classification Guidelines.
The agreement, which initially commenced in February 2019, has been extended for an additional four years. This means that the BBFC’s iconic age rating symbols will remain in place across Netflix content in the UK until at least late 2028. The BBFC regularly audits content rated by Netflix to ensure accuracy and consistency.
David Austin OBE, Chief Executive, BBFC said: “We’re incredibly proud of our partnership with Netflix, the first streamer to enter into a self-rating partnership with the BBFC. Our groundbreaking work together has made a significant contribution to child protection and audience empowerment in the UK, and we’re delighted that it will continue for at least another four years.”
Research collected as part of the most recent BBFC Classification Guidelines consultation revealed that more than eight in ten people want a consistent age rating system across cinema, physical media and video-on-demand/streaming platforms.
“Our members are our number one priority, and we’re committed to delivering an experience that not only meets but exceeds their expectations,” said Benjamin King, Senior Director, Public Policy – UK & Ireland, Netflix. “That’s why, as the first streaming service to voluntarily carry BBFC age ratings on 100% of our catalogue, we’re proud to extend our rating agreement with BBFC for a further four years.”
This research also found that 99% of people recognise at least one BBFC age rating symbol, with 78% recognising them all. Additionally, 90% of parents and caregivers, 91% of teachers, and 88% of teens aged 16-19 say that they trust BBFC age ratings all or most of the time.
