Amazon reels in YouTubers for French scripted/unscripted hybrid

Natoo

Amazon has signed up a raft of YouTube talent for its latest French original that has been described as a “unique format at the crossroads of scripted and unscripted TV”.

True Story is a six-part show that will be hosted by six French YouTubers, with Warner Bros International Television Production France producing alongside Talent Web/Webedia.

The show, which will become available exclusively on Amazon’s Prime Video in France in 2020, will see social media stars Natoo, Cyprien, Norman, Ludovik, Mcfly and Carlito hosting celebrity guests, then reenacting true stories from each star’s life.

“True Story gives a unique opportunity to six incredibly talented YouTubers to express their wide range of talents by telling the surprising secret stories of French stars,” said Georgia Brown, director of European Amazon original series. “We’re excited to bring this new and innovative TV format exclusively to Prime members in France.”

True Story joins local French shows such as Jerôme Commandeur Tout En Douceur, alongside other global originals such as Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, Good Omens and The Grand Tour.

Earlier this year, Amazon’s head of international originals James Farrell told TBI about his format strategy, which operates on both a country-by-country basis and as part of a global play. The streamer also unveiled four new French shows – including a local reboot of ITV reality format Love Island – in October.