C4 loses Black Mirror to Netflix | This doesn't reflect well...

C4 loses Black Mirror to Netflix

This doesn't reflect well...

The next series of Charlie Brooker’s Black Mirror will premiere on Netflix in the UK, after Channel 4 lost the rights.

The reported $40million deal for the 12 new episodes has sparked a bitter row between programme-makers Endemol Shine and the terrestrial broadcaster.

Channel 4 believes it should have been given favourable terms since it took a risk on the show in the first place, while the producers say C4 have passed up the chance to recommission the series – claims the broadcaster denies.

In a strongly worded statement, Channel 4 chief creative officer Jay Hunt said: 'Black Mirror couldn’t be a more Channel 4 show.

'We grew it from a dangerous idea to a brand that resonated globally. Of course it’s disappointing that the first broadcast window in the UK is then sold to the highest bidder, ignoring the risk a publicly owned channel like 4 took backing it.'

MediaGuardian reports that Channel 4 made a 'serious and significant offer' for the rights to premiere the new episodes in the UK, but was outbid by the on-demand service, which had already commissioned the new series for the rest of the world.

Endemol Shine, which is co-owned by Rupert Murdoch's 21st Century Fox, said: 'It is unfortunate that having explored every avenue with Channel 4 an agreement was not able to be reached.

'Channel 4 have had the opportunity to recommission since 2013, and passed on this and subsequent co-production options put to them.'

Brooker has previously described Netflix as 'the most fitting platform imaginable' for his series.

Published: 29 Mar 2016

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