BBC Worldwide strikes digital Mango deal

BBC Worldwide has inked a programming deal with China’s Mango TV, building on a strategy TBI first reported on last year.

Kelvin Yau (left), general manager of the BBC’s commmercial business in China, told TBI last November that Worldwide, the commercial arm of the UK pubcaster, and Mango, a division of Hunan TV, had agreed a content pact.

Worldwide and Mango this morning said that they have also inked a digital deal that will see Mango run preschool and factual content from Worldwide.

Titles include Tigers About the House; Trust Me, I’m a Doctor; and kids series The Numtums – in which viewers go on a lively numerical adventures and learn about numbers.

Mango TV has previously bought shows including David Beckham For the Love of the Game.

“We are very pleased that our relationship with Mango TV has grown quickly since we signed our MOU in October 2015,” said Yau.

“Besides this deal, we are also deep in discussions with Mango TV to explore production and format opportunities particularly in iconic BBC documentaries, factual entertainment programmes, dramas and films targeting the Chinese and global market.”

“This partnership has been very fruitful and we look forward to developing more exciting opportunities with BBC Worldwide,” added Molly Nie, chairman of Mango TV.