BBC First goes to Japan

Sony Pictures Television Networks in Japan has become the first channel to offer the BBC First programming block after agreeing a deal with BBC Worldwide.

Sherlock

SPT’s AXN Mystery will start airing the two-hour block from May 7, with shows such as Sherlock, Doctor Who and The Game all becoming available.

Viewers will be able to catch up via SPT’s on-demand service AXN Mystery Plus, with the launch marking the first roll-out for the First programming block following the brand’s channel launch on Foxtel in Australia in August.

“AXN Mystery has had great success with British dramas, which have attracted a strong Japanese following with their high production values and unique style of storytelling, so it made perfect sense to create a destination for them in our schedule,” said Hiroko Ozawa, general manager of AXN Mystery.

BBC First was one of three brands unveiled by the UK pubcaster’s commercial arm in October 2013.