Disney+ has signed a groundbreaking deal with the UK’s Channel 4 in what it claims is one of the “most significant” content arrangements it has made with broadcasters around the world to bring local content to its platform.
The first-of-its-kind deal will see the Channel 4 service launch on Disney+ in the UK and Ireland in early 2027, with multiple Channel 4 programs each year available on-demand on Disney+ at the same time they are broadcast via Channel 4. These programs include Channel 4’s main TV channel and supplements, along with drama “Maya” starring Bella Ramsey, comedy “Stepping Up” starring Denise Welch and reality format “Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins”. optional content.
The deal is one of nearly ten similar content deals Disney has signed with international broadcasters; Because it broke new ground last year after the agreement was made with the British broadcaster ITVX to share selected content. This groundbreaking deal comes just weeks after Netflix announced a landmark deal in France that will give subscribers access to TF1 channels through the broadcaster.
News of the collaboration with Channel 4 was described as “one of the most significant pieces of news Disney+ has adopted globally to deliver high-quality, local content to customers in markets around the world,” according to Disney, which said the news would “extend Channel 4’s reach” and bring “more choice to Disney+ customers.”
Under the deal, Disney+ customers will be able to watch hundreds of hours of scripted and unscripted content through Channel 4’s linear HD channel and on-demand catalog at no additional cost. The on-demand offering will include a range of Channel 4 shows available day-in and day-out on Disney+; Disney+ customers will gain access to multiple new Channel 4 shows each year as part of their existing subscription. Channel 4 will be available through a Channel 4 branded division.
“We’re excited to be working with Disney+ to give viewers more ways to discover and enjoy Channel 4’s great programmes,” said Priya Dogra, Channel 4’s chief executive. “Channel 4 is home to some of the UK and Ireland’s most talked-about and trusted programs, and this new service will help these programs reach audiences in new places. This exciting step shows how collaboration between broadcasters and broadcasters can create greater choice and value for viewers.”
Disney Entertainment’s head of direct-to-consumer Adam Smith added: “Local broadcaster partnerships are essential as we build our content libraries and serve fans around the world. Channel 4 has created programming that has attracted strong interest from audiences in the UK and Ireland, and we’re excited to bring some of these favorites to Disney+. This deal 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+.”