International OTT streaming service Viu has picked up its first package of content from BBC Studios’ distribution slate, including dramas, documentaries and kids’ content, for its platform in South Africa.
The agreement, covering 150 hours of programming, marks the first sale of cookery show Homegrown Tastes South Africa, BBC Lifestyle’s local commission which launched earlier this year.
The 10-part series, produced by BBC-backed South African production company Rapid Blue, follows chef and TV personality Lorna Maseko on a culinary expedition across South Africa.
The deal also includes the first five seasons of Luther, Orphan Black and drama anthology series Small Axe by Oscar-, Bafta- and Golden Globe-winning filmmaker Steve McQueen.
For younger audiences, UK preschool animated series JoJo & Gran Gran, featuring a black British family, will be available to stream. Based on a best-selling book, the series tells the story of a four-year-old girl and her fun and wise grandmother who teaches her about relationships and the many wonders of life and the world.
English-language learning series Yakka Dee will also be available on the Viu platform.
“This deal marks the first with Viu and the first sale of our local commission, Homegrown Tastes South Africa,” said Pierre Cloete, commercial director for Africa at BBC Studios.
Ryan Solovei, country manager for South Africa at Viu, added: “This deal marks the first of its kind – this is an indication that there is growth and further opportunities in what is and will continue to be a dynamic entertainment market. This is an indication of Viu’s commitment to South Africa and Africa at large.”
tagged in: BBC Lifestyle, BBC Studios, Homegrown Tastes South Africa, JoJo & Gran Gran, Luther, Orphan Black, Ryan Solovei, Small Axe, Viu
