Canal+ and Sky have launched a new strategic partnership to co-commission premium English-language scripted drama.
Under the agreement, the two companies will work together on at least two projects a year over an initial three-year term, with both parties co-financing greenlit productions.
The partnership will draw on the capabilities of Studiocanal and independent producers, with the aim of backing both established and emerging creative talent.
Sky and Canal+ said the alliance is intended to support ambitious UK-led stories with international appeal, while also providing a broader distribution platform across Europe and other markets.
Maxime Saada, CEO of Canal+, said: “Sky and Canal+ share the same storytelling DNA and drive to develop globally successful content and IP. Our previous co-productions, like The Young Pope and Zero Zero Zero, are great examples of what we can do together through this complementary and ambitious new partnership.”
Dana Strong, group CEO of Sky, added: “We are excited to build on our strong working relationship with Canal+ to create this partnership. Sky and Canal+ share a strong track record in creating premium drama, and through this collaboration we will bring our creative ambition and expertise together at scale.”
The companies said work on the first slate of projects will begin in the coming months.
The agreement strengthens ties between the two European pay-TV groups at a time when both are looking to increase the international reach of their original productions and build stronger global IP.
