SVOD net Acorn cops British comedy No Offence

RLJ Entertainment’s Acorn TV has acquired exclusive digital rights in North America for the first two seasons of crime comedy-drama No Offence from Paul Abbot (Shameless) and a host of ITV shows.

The eight-part first series will make its exclusive US debut on April 16. No Offence is a comedy police procedural series, produced by AbbottVision for Channel 4 (UK), and Acorn also has home video rights.

Acorn has also picked up true spy ITV miniseries Reilly: Ace of Spies, six seasons of 1990s sitcom Goodnight Sweetheart and four seasons of ITV comedy After Henry. All the deals were made with FremantleMedia International.

Don Klees, vice president of programming for Acorn brands at RLJ, said: “FremantleMedia International continues to be a valued partner for Acorn TV with the success of shows like Aussie medical dramedy The Heart Guy, so we’re thrilled to partner with them again for several more high-quality programs our subscribers are sure to enjoy.

“Acorn TV continues to lead the way in curating the very best in new and contemporary British dramas and No Offence is another high caliber addition with its fresh take on police procedurals mixed with cutting edge humor. Additionally, we love to provide our subscribers classic, hidden gems, so Reilly, Ace of Spies and the U.S. debut of Goodnight Sweetheart will make excellent additions to our constantly growing catalog.”

In recent news, RLJ shareholder AMC Networks has made a bid to gain majority shares in the business. The companies are currently in negotiation for a deal for the US$60 million valued company.

Acorn is positioned as a ‘best-of-British’ on-demand service for viewers in North America.