BBC to make shows for YouTube, as new content deal announced

The BBC has announced a major deal with YouTube that will see the company create bespoke content for the video streaming service.

The broadcaster has previously used Google-owned YouTube to promote clips and trailers of its own shows in the UK.

However, the new move will see the BBC create content aimed primarily at YouTube’s young, digitally native audience, although this content will also be available on the BBC’s iPlayer and Sounds platforms.

The new programs will feature advertising from outside the UK, providing the company with extra funding at a time when its future funding model is under discussion.

Content will include a mix of entertainment, news and sports, starting with the Winter Olympics in February.

In a statement released Wednesday, YouTube and the BBC said the deal would showcase “the best local storytelling and news from across the BBC.”

Director-General Tim Davie said it would help the BBC “connect with audiences in new ways”.

“We’re building from a strong start, taking us to the next level with bold, self-produced content in formats that audiences want on YouTube, and an unprecedented training program to develop the skills of the next generation of YouTube creators across the UK,” he added.

“Importantly, this partnership also allows new audiences to access BBC services such as BBC iPlayer and Sounds in different ways.”

Pedro Pina, YouTube’s vice president of EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa), said they were “delighted” to partner with the BBC “to redefine the boundaries of digital storytelling.”

“This partnership delivers the BBC’s premium content to a digital-first audience and ensures its cultural impact reaches a younger, more global audience,” he said.

“Beyond the content, our first-of-its-kind training program represents a deep investment in the UK’s creative pipeline to empower the next generation of British talent to lead the global creative economy.

“In doing this, we’re not just telling today’s stories; we’re building the stage for tomorrow’s storytellers.”

In December, the number of YouTube viewers in the UK surpassed some of the BBC’s measures for the first time, according to data reported by ratings agency Barb.

Research conducted last summer showed that social media and video networks Became the main news source in the USAleaving traditional TV channels and news sites behind.

The new deal between YouTube and the BBC covers the BBC’s UK-based public service broadcasting wing, as well as more international offerings from BBC Studios.

Culture Minister Lisa Nandy last year said the BBC’s license fee was “unworkable” and said “no options are off the table” while the government reviews the company’s current funding model.