Doctor Who boosts China presence

Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman in Doctor Who

BBC Worldwide (BBCWW) is preparing to ramp up its Doctor Who brand in China after securing a far-reaching content deal with domestic giant Shanghai Media Group Pictures (SMG Pictures).

The agreement will see BBCWW working with SMG to increase the Doctor Who fan base in China, with the two firms exploring future opportunities and exchanging expertise.

The pair’s deal, agreed yesterday, will result in the entire catalogue of Doctor Who, including spin-offs Torchwood and Class, becoming available on TV and on-demand channels across China.

The agreement also covers the yet-to-film 11th season, helmed by incoming showrunner Chris Chibnall (Broadchurch), as well as China’s first look at seasons 12 to 15.

“China is going through a time of tremendous growth and rapid market development. Everyone here is curious about popular cultures around the world,” said Chen Sijie, general manager at SMG Pictures.

“Doctor Who, with its long television history and iconic place in popular culture, is a great representative of British pop culture. We hope this partnership with BBC Worldwide will enable both parties, as well as Chinese and British fans, to share and exchange ideas and learnings to grow the universe of Doctor Who in China.”

BBCWW previously worked with SMG on the theatrical release of its drama Sherlock – The Abominable Bride, as well as the upcoming launch of One Amazing Day, which is being coproduced with SMG Pictures.