The BBC and ZDF have formed a new partnership supporting producers to create ambitious, scripted content for the PSBs with a focus on high-end drama.
The U.K. and German broadcasters have already commissioned two shows together: the previously announced spy thriller Honey from Sid Gentle Films Ltd and the second series of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, starring Wednesday actress Emma Myers. The show is co-produced with Netflix and made by Moonage Pictures.
The collaboration will “maximize the strengths of two of Europe’s leading public service broadcasters, combining ZDF‘s pan-European co-production know-how with the BBC‘s track record of hit scripted titles.”
“The BBC’s programming strategy is a perfect match with our goals,” said Nadine Bilke, CCO at ZDF. “Their strong commitment to creating content that resonates with audiences mirrors our own mission. Working on projects such as A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, with its compelling young adult storyline, and Honey, a spectacular event programme, increases our appeal to younger audiences and enriches our content with a European perspective.”
BBC director of drama Lindsay Salt added: “ZDF’s strong creative reputation, combined with strategic similarities in our programming, creates an exciting opportunity to further enrich our content. As public service broadcasters face increasing economic challenges, this partnership opens new avenues for collaboration, helping us to continue to back the best storytelling from across the U.K., investing in talent, and remaining creatively ambitious.”
She continued: “With two dramas already underway and with more shows in the pipeline, we look forward to working further with ZDF to bring BBC viewers the very best in scripted television.”
