Sky Studios CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz recently spoke at the Edinburgh TV Festival to reassure subscribers about HBO programming and emphasize the company’s focus on original shows. Frot-Coutaz said there is “no scenario” where Warner Bros. Discovery’s (WBD) streaming service Max is not available to Sky customers. This comments on speculation around Sky’s partnership with WBD as Max prepares to launch in the UK.
Some expect WBD to move HBO shows to Max when its current deal providing content to Sky ends in 2025. However, Frot-Coutaz noted that while HBO programmes are popular, only three of Sky’s top 20 shows come from HBO. She highlighted the strength of Sky’s homegrown content. According to Frot-Coutaz, “every single market in the world” prefers locally-produced shows, though “big blockbuster series” stand out.
Frot-Coutaz added that Sky’s strategy of ordering a low volume of programming has allowed it to withstand difficulties in the entertainment industry better than rivals. This enables Sky to “continue investing” in original content.
Sky is focusing more on returning UK-made scripted series, according to Meghan Lyvers who was recently promoted to lead original scripted output. Lyvers said Sky wants to “create more” shows that represent “the audience and communities across the UK.”
Five new originals were also announced for Sky Arts by Phil Edgar-Jones following his promotion to head unscripted programming. These include documentaries on author Edna O’Brien and musician Pauline Black, as well as a series exploring heritage crafts. Competition show “Rob Beckett’s Smart TV” was renewed for a second season too.
The updates come after changes to Sky Studios’ leadership team, including promotions for Lyvers and Edgar-Jones after Zai Bennett was made CEO of the BBC’s production arm. As it navigates the evolving content world, Sky aims to offer both major international programming and high-quality, locally relevant originals for UK viewers.
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