BBC Studios extends ABC Australia content pact

Silent Witness

BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand and Australian pubcaster ABC have signed a multi-year, multi-genre distribution agreement covering factual, drama comedy and kids titles.

Under the deal, ABC will have access to a range of factual content across documentaries, science, history and factual entertainment, including the latest titles from documentary maker Louis Theroux and physicist Professor Brian Cox and the forthcoming documentary series Frida on the life of artist Frida Kahlo. ABC will also take first run on comedies like supernatural sitcom Ghosts, now in its fourth season, and Adam Hill’s satirical insight into world events, The Last Leg.

The deal also secures the future of dramas such as Silent Witness, Death in Paradise, Unforgotten and Call The Midwife on ABC, with the broadcaster continuing to have access to these shows and the final series of Smother.

In kids, ABC will continue to take first run on Horrible Histories and second run on Hey Duggee and titles featuring British kids presenter Andy Day.

Deborah Tod, head of content sales, BBC Studios ANZ, said: “ABC is a valued and longstanding client and we are pleased to deepen our partnership with this new comprehensive agreement.

“This will continue to ensure that many of the best British shows are available to Australians through ABC’s premium platforms across linear and digital.”