Starz, BBC Worldwide ink multi-year production deal

US cable network Starz has inked a deal with BBC Worldwide that will see the pair produce and distribute 100 hours of programming.

The deal follows the success of Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood: Miracle Day, which was a coproduction between the two companies and launched last month. It is a significant step in BBC Worldwide’s expansion in the States, which is being run by Jane Tranter.

The multi-year deal will see the two companies develop, produce and distribute a number of one hour dramas. Starz will distribute the series in the United States and Canada and BBC Worldwide will handle international sales.

Starz CEO and chairman Chris Albrecht said: “When I came to Starz, we determined that forging strong international partnerships would play center stage in financing our ramp-up of dynamic original programming. This exciting partnership with BBC Worldwide Productions is a major step in that direction.  It will allow us to provide Starz subscribers more original programming, while delivering enhanced opportunity across all our domestic distribution businesses including Anchor Bay and Starz Digital Media.”

BBC Worldwide Productions CEO Jane Tranter said: “We’re in a uniquely similar place to Starz.  With Chris’s arrival, Starz made a name in originals and is defining themselves as a true player in the U.S. premium cable territory.  At BBC Worldwide Productions, we’ve hit our stride in the scripted business after starting these efforts just over two years ago. Working with Starz on Torchwood: Miracle Day has been a collaborative and invigorating journey.