Disney+ has made what it claims is one of the “most significant’ content arrangements with broadcasters around the world to bring local content to its platform, striking a landmark deal with U.K. network Channel 4.
The first-of-its-kind deal will see the Channel 4 service launch on Disney+ in the U.K. and Ireland in early 2027, with multiple Channel 4 shows made available on-demand each year on Disney+ at the same time as their release via Channel 4. These shows include the drama “Maya” featuring Bella Ramsey, comedy “Stepping Up” featuring Denise Welch and reality format “Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins,” alongside – Channel 4’s main TV channel and additional on-demand content.
The deal is one of around ten similar content deals that Disney has signed with international broadcasters, since it broke new ground last year following a deal with Brit streamer ITVX to share select content. That groundbreaking deal came just weeks after Netflix unveiled a landmark agreement in France to give its subscribers access to TF1 channels via the streamer.
News of the collaboration with Channel 4 was described as “one of the most significant that Disney+ has agreed globally to bring high-quality, local content to customers in markets around the world,” according to Disney, something it said would enhance “Channel 4’s reach” and bring “more choice to Disney+ customers.”
As per the deal, Disney+ customers will be able to watch Channel 4’s linear HD channel, plus hundreds of hours of its scripted and unscripted content through its on-demand catalogue, for no additional cost. The on-demand offering will feature a range of Channel 4 shows available day and dat’ on Disney+ – with Disney+ customers gaining access to multiple new Channel 4 shows each year as part of their existing subscription. Channel 4 will be available via a Channel 4-branded section.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Disney+ to give audiences even more ways to discover and enjoy Channel 4’s brilliant shows,” said Priya Dogra, Channel 4 chief executive. “Channel 4 is home to some of the UK and Ireland’s most talked about and trusted programming, and this new service will help those shows reach viewers in new places. This exciting step shows how collaboration between broadcasters and streamers can create more choice and value for audiences.”
Added Adam Smith, chairman direct-to-consumer, Disney Entertainment: “Local broadcaster partnerships are very important as we build our content libraries and serve fans around the world. Channel 4 has created shows with strong appeal to audiences in the UK and Ireland, and we’re excited to bring some of those favorites to Disney+. This agreement is the latest example of our global strategy, pairing high-quality local programming and cultural relevance with a complementary audience and more personalized streaming experience on Disney+.”
