Written by on Jan 30, 2014. Posted in Production News

Sky and HBO announce expanded deal to produce new TV drama

British Sky Broadcasting (BSkyB) and HBO have announced an expanded partnership that will see the two companies work together on original TV productions. Through their existing deal, Sky broadcasts HBO shows like Boardwalk Empire in the UK and Ireland on its Sky Atlantic channel.

“By expanding our relationship with HBO, we are strengthening our commitment to bring customers the very best content from around the world,” said Sky’s Chief Executive Jeremy Darroch.

“Original production is the natural next step for our partnership with HBO and we are enormously excited at the prospect of working together to realise our shared vision for epic drama of a truly spectacular scale.”

Added HBO Chief Executive Officer Richard Plepler: “The team at Sky are true partners and the extension and expansion of our relationship feels like an obvious next step. We are proud to have HBO programming remain a part of the Sky offering and excited to add to it with our joint undertaking in new production.”

Original production is the natural next step for our partnership with HBO and we are enormously excited at the prospect of working together.

Jeremy Darroch, Chief Executive at Sky

The UK’s new TV tax credit means that local television production is now more cost-effective, although there is intense global competition. Game of Thrones is among the most popular TV dramas and the show has been based in Northern Ireland throughout its run.

Period gangster drama Boardwalk Empire is set in Atlantic City, New Jersey, but shoots on location in New York where the filming incentives are more generous. In recent years, HBO has also produced high-end miniseries such as The Pacific, Generation Kill and Parade’s End.

(Images: HBO)