Two major broadcasters are teaming up to launch a new streaming service called BritBox. BBC Worldwide and ITV are creating their own Netflix-style service taking the best of British TV to American audiences.
BritBox will bring a number of programs never seen in the U.S. before - drama, soaps and other series. Some will even be online for U.S. customers as soon as 24 hours after they appear on British broadcast.
"Britain produces some of the best television in the world and we're delighted to be bringing the creative might of the BBC and ITV together for the first time in this exciting new streaming service for US fans," said Simon Pitts, managing director of online, pay TV and interactive at ITV.
After the announcement he continues that "BritBox will be the best and most comprehensive British streaming service in the US; a rich catalogue of classic, new, and exclusive shows easily accessible to US viewers all in one place."
Titles that may be included are Tutankhamun, Cold Feet, New Blood, The Moonstone, In The Dark and Silent Witness. UK Series like EastEnders, Emmerdale, and Holby City will be available too.
The ultimate goal is to roll out the service in other international markets.
BritBox will debut in the first quarter of 2017 in the U.S.; but pricing, full details on the lineup, and an exact launch date have not yet been provided. What is known is that the service will be ad-free and customers can sign up now on the BritBox homepage to be emailed when the service makes its official debut.