The BBC and YouTube have sealed a milestone partnership that includes a slate of digital-first content, the creation of a suite of channels for kids and YA audiences, and a skills-development program for creators.
YouTube-first content from the BBC will also be made available on BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds. Meanwhile, the slate of new YouTube channels includes Deepwatch (w.t.), featuring new and existing BBC documentaries, and seven kids’ services, among them The Epic Facts channel featuring content from CBBC’s Operation Ouch, Horrible Histories, Horrible Science and Deadly 60. The partnership will also see key BBC program brands being promoted on YouTube, plus news coverage from the pubcaster with new channels, real-time live story streams, and innovative story formats.
The alliance aims to boost commercial growth by driving partnerships with brands, partners, and creators around fandoms. It further includes support for creators, building on the success of BBC Studios’ TalentWorks and BBC Creator Lab and YouTube’s Launchpad, Accelerators, and Masterclass series, with workshops and events led by the National Film and Television School (NFTS).
BBC Director-General Tim Davie said: “It’s essential that everyone gets value from the BBC, and this groundbreaking partnership will help us connect with audiences in new ways. We’re building from a strong start and this takes us to the next level, with bold homegrown content in formats audiences want on YouTube and an unprecedented training program to upskill the next generation of YouTube creators from across the UK. Importantly, this partnership also allows new audiences different routes into BBC services like BBC iPlayer and Sounds.”
Pedro Pina, VP for EMEA at YouTube, added: “We are delighted to partner with the BBC to redefine the boundaries of digital storytelling. This partnership translates the BBC’s world-class content for a digital-first audience, ensuring its cultural impact reaches a younger, more global audience. Beyond the content, our first-of-its-kind training program represents a deep investment in the U.K.’s creative pipeline designed to empower the next generation of British talent to lead the global creator economy. In doing so, we are not just telling the stories of today; we are building the stage for the storytellers of tomorrow.”
