BBCS-produced show to launch on linear and iPlayer next month

The BBC has acquired the first three series of Apple TV+ sitcom Trying for BBC1 and iPlayer, in a landmark deal for the corporation.

It is the first time the BBC has bought a show from the streamer, and it will launch on 8 September. 

The BBC Studios-produced comedy was the first show that Apple TV+ commissioned outside of the US, and is the streamer’s longest-running sitcom, with the fifth series upcoming. 

It is understood the deal, brokered by BBC Studios, includes the option for the BBC to buy further series according to Deadline, which first reported the acquisition.

Created by Andy Wolton, the show stars Rafe Spall and Esther Smith as a couple who go on a journey to adopt two children.

Apple TV+ titles are typically exclusive to the tech giant’s platform, although after their initial license period has passed, distributors have been exploring opportunities to exploit second-window rights with third-party broadcasters.

Earlier this year, ITVX acquired Uma Thurman-fronted drama Suspicion from distributor Fifth Season.

Elsewhere, France’s Studio TF1 has been able to license UK indie Ringside Studios and French label Léonis Productions’ Apple TV+ espionage thriller Liaison to local commercial broadcaster TF1.

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