Boss Of ‘Black Mirror’ Seller Banijay Rights Predicts Streamers Will Return To Commissioning In Bulk Once They “Break Even” – Series Mania

deadline.com:

The boss of one of the world’s biggest TV distributors has predicted streamers will return to commissioning originals in bulk once they “break even.” Cathy Payne, who runs Big Brother and Black Mirror seller Banijay Rights, said there is “no doubt” the deep-pocketed U.S.

giants are currently ordering less originals, preferring to strike alternative deals such as “enhanced pre-sale acquisitions.” “It’s well documented that streamers have had difficulty in reaching their targets and streamers launching in markets has been tough economically, with high interest rates and so on,” she added. “There is no doubt the streamers are commissioning less originals and are rather looking for enhanced pre-sales acquisitions till they get to a point where they’re breaking even, then they’ll come back with more originals.” Payne added: “It’s not subscribers at any cost, services have to make money.” Payne backed up Netflix EMEA boss Larry Tanz’s comments from earlier this week that streamers are currently open to a multitude of different rights packages.

Tanz had revealed research that found Netflix only owns the IP on 25% of its European projects. “There are certain shows we’re involved with where the streamer is just one territory,” added Payne. “Obviously when the streamers are commissioning for their domestic market they want it to work in that market first and foremost and then if it has the ability to travel then that is good.

There has been more non-scripted commissioning as well, coming into the mix.” On the flip side, Payne stressed that streamers are still clearly committed to originals and are “not spending any less” on these shows. “I don’t see many Apple shows that look underfunded,” said Payne.