Netflix is proudly commissioning U.K. programming with a focus on U.K. audiences while being happy if they also end up becoming global hits, a top executive of the streamer told the Media & Telecoms 2025 & Beyond Conference in London, organized by Deloitte and Enders Analysis, on Tuesday.
“Maybe this is finally my chance [to debunk a] myth,” Larry Tanz, vp, content, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at Netflix, told the event. “I understand that there might be people who have an interest in saying we’re commissioning for international audiences, but they all know it’s just not true,” pointing to the likes of hit series Adolescence. “We commission for the U.K. audience, first and foremost. So, we are absolutely focused on the local audience first and foremost, and that’s our whole investment approach,” including in other markets.
“Am I happy and proud of Adolescence‘s success around the world? Yeah, of course,” he added.” But does it make it any less British? I just don’t think so.”
Tanz shared his insight on a panel with Cécile Frot-Coutaz, the CEO of Sky Studios and chief content officer of Sky, owned by Comcast, Sarah Rose, president of U.K. broadcaster Channel 5 and U.K. regional lead at Channel 5 owner Paramount Global, and Wayne Garvie, president of Sony Pictures Television. The panel discussed commissioning trends and industry opportunities and challenges.
Asked about YouTube, Tanz called the Google video service “a very worthy competitor” and a great place to discover talent. “We are much better at helping them monetize,” he argued though, highlighting differences between the two players, citing the likes of The Sidemen.
Asked about competitors’ shows he likes, Tanz mentioned Apple TV+ show The Studio, mentioning how his boss, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, made his acting debut in it. “It’s quite an incredible performance,” he offered.
