Acorn TV joins Virgin Media thriller

Acorn Media Enterprises has inked a copro deal with All3Media International, Company Pictures and Element for Blood, a thriller commissioned by Virgin Media Television (VMT).

Under the deal, Blood will make its North American debut on RLJ Entertainment-owned SVoD Acorn TV as an Acorn TV Original in the US and Canada. Acorn will also coproduce the series along with the other parties.

VMT in Ireland will have the global premiere for the show, which is expected to roll out this autumn. VMT has been pushing into original commissions as of late. This August, it launched a campaign seeking submissions for a new post-watershed, six-part drama.

All3Media International has also signed two presale windows in the UK with Channel 5 and Virgin Media UK. Channel 5 will launch the series on linear in the UK, while Virgin takes the UK SVOD window. Acorn has UK home entertainment rights.

Catherine Mackin, MD of Acorn Media Enterprises, said: “We’re thrilled to partner again with our friends at All3Media International on another high-quality drama production.

“Delivering a new and exciting take on the crime genre, Blood boasts a stellar line-up of talent both on- and off-screen, ensuring it is perfectly in line with the first-rate dramas we’re bringing to Acorn TV’s subscribers every month.”

Bill Malone, director of programming for VMT, added: “We are delighted that the international market has recognised our efforts in commissioning high-quality original drama.

“Blood is a powerful and engrossing story which is a key pillar of Virgin Media Television’s autumn schedule. This drama further underlines our commitment to invest in original scripted content in Ireland which appeals to international audiences.”