Hollyoaks to return to Australia, NZ after All3Media deals

British teen soap Hollyoaks is set to return to screens in Australia and New Zealand after All3Media International struck a deal with BBC Worldwide-owned broadcaster UKTV and New Zealand’s Sky.

The move will see the Lime Pictures-produced series return to Australia, after Seven Network’s youth skewing digital network 7Two previously aired the show.

The series, which has been running in the UK for 15 years, will launch in both countries in spring 2013.

Tim Christlieb, head of programming and production for BBC Worldwide Channels, Australasia, said: “We are delighted to be able to respond to huge audience demand by bringing back premiere episodes of Hollyoaks to audiences in Australia and New Zealand on UKTV. Great British soaps are a really important part of UKTV and we are thrilled to be bringing our viewers even more of what we know they love.”

Peter Grant, VP, sales at All3Media International added: “We’re very pleased to see Hollyoaks premiering in Australia and New Zealand – UKTV is renowned as the home of the best UK soaps– and we’re looking forward to our hit drama joining its schedules. Hollyoaks continues to capture the attention of the highly sought after youth audience, with storylines that are entertaining and humorous yet also tackle the key issues teenagers around the world are confronting – making it a must-see drama wherever it airs.”