Warner Bros. Discovery and Fremantle, the creators of popular shows like “Britain’s Got Talent,” have expressed their concerns regarding the controversial creation of Channel 4 in-house.
As part of the UK’s Streaming Regulations, Channel 4 is set to gain ownership rights over its shows for the first time in its four-decade history. Both WBD and Fremantle have emphasized the need to protect the numerous UK producers who heavily rely on Channel 4 commissions for their business growth.
WBD, which owns several UK independent production companies, has called for the government and regulator Ofcom to establish “creative window of competition” to safeguard the benefits of the current system. They highlighted the success of their own UK indies, like Wall to Wall (producer of “Who Do You Think You Are?”) and Twenty Twenty (producer of “First Dates“), which have thrived due to Channel 4’s unique publisher-broadcaster model.
“We need to ensure the benefits are not put at risk to the detriment of Channel 4, its viewers and the wider UK audiovisual ecosystem,” added the WBD response.
Fremantle, known for producing hit shows such as “Britain’s Got Talent” and “The Apprentice,” echoed the need for careful assessment and broad industry consultation regarding any changes to Channel 4’s remit and quotas. They suggested conducting a detailed impact assessment and implementing policy measures to mitigate any negative effects on the independent production sector.
The government has initiated a inquiry and sought responses from numerous UK producers to address concerns about Channel 4 in-house. Measures to protect the production sector include increasing Channel 4’s “indie quota,” which currently stands at 25% of its $860 million content budget, as well as introducing quotas for smaller producers.
WBD and Fremantle stress need for safeguards in Channel 4 in-house plans, emphasizing impact assessment and long-term sustainability considerations.
