Disney+ Looks to Add More British Comedy Shows to Bring Joy During These Times, Says Eric Schrier

Disney+ Expands UK Comedy Slate, Targets Local Originals

Disney+ is planning to increase its lineup of comedy series from the UK, as announced by Eric Schrier, the President of Disney TV Studios and Global Original Television Strategy, during a discussion at Content London.

Schrier highlighted that this initiative is partly a response to the serious tone of global conversations today, stating, “We think the world can use some comedy right now.” He pointed out that while there are numerous dramas in development in the UK, both limited and ongoing series, the recent trend has leaned away from comedy.

During his address, Schrier unveiled a trailer for the upcoming Disney+ comedy-drama Alice & Steve, which stars Jermaine Clement and Nicola Walker as platonic middle-aged friends whose bond is tested when one begins dating the other’s 26-year-old daughter. Produced by Clerkenwell Films, the series is directed by Tom Kingsley and written by Sophie Goodhart.

Describing the concept of Alice & Steve as “super unique,” Schrier encouraged producers present to bring forth ambitious ideas. He emphasized the necessity of embracing risk in creative endeavors, stating, “If failure is not part of your business model, you are not going to succeed in a creative business.”

He also referenced the comedy series Rivals, adapted from Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles, as a “huge hit” that has bolstered Disney+’s presence in the UK and beyond.

Schrier’s remarks come on the heels of Disney CEO Bob Iger’s announcement earlier this year regarding a significant increase in local production. Iger indicated that Disney is entering “phase two” of Disney+’s evolution, focusing on developing content more aggressively in global markets.

This year alone, Disney+ has launched 100 new series across more than 20 territories, prioritizing markets such as the UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Korea, Turkey, and Brazil. Schrier recently discussed the ambitious production plans for Disney in the Asia-Pacific region during an interview.

In addition, Disney has been repositioning Hulu as its international platform for adult-focused content following the discontinuation of the Star brand. Schrier noted that Hulu’s flexibility allows for more daring international commissions compared to offerings from other Disney channels.

He reiterated that pitches for children and family content will remain primarily in-house while asserting, “We’re really looking to do Hulu originals across the world to show adults that Disney+ can still do edgy things.”

Free-to-Air Partnerships and Market Strategy

Addressing recent content collaboration deals with ITV in the UK, Atresmedia in Spain, and ZDF Studios in Germany, Schrier described free-to-air broadcasters as “really powerful entities in their markets.” He highlighted Hulu’s productivity in the U.S. as it streams ABC and Fox content the day after their linear premieres.

This strategy has influenced Disney+ to partner widely across global markets. Schrier noted that the approach is tailored to each territory, dictated on a project-by-project basis.

Interestingly, he mentioned that these content partnerships suggest Disney does not always prioritize exclusivity, although producers remain attracted to substantial upfront fees for global rights. “Netflix changed the business model when it went out to buy global rights,” he added, indicating it has become the industry’s preferred practice.

Additionally, Schrier announced the new four-part Hulu true-crime series The Devil in My DMs, which examines the intersection of social media and crime by following four narratives where online interactions led to real-life crimes. The series will be produced by UK-based Lightbox, known for its work on the Disney+ original Camden, with a team of experienced executives overseeing its development.