BBC3 bags NBCU’s Barracuda

Swimming drama Barracuda

BBC3 has acquired Australian drama Barracuda from NBCUniversal (NBCU) International Distribution.

The 4×60′ series, which will be available this winter, is based on the book by novelist Christos Tsiolkas (The Slap) and tells the story of a 16-year-old boy attempting to become an Olympic swimmer.

The show is produced by NBCU-owned Matchbox Pictures in association with the ABC, Screen Australia and Film Victoria. It was written by Blake Ayshford (Devil’s Playground) and Belinda Chayko (Secret City), with Robert Connolly (Paper Planes) directing.

Sue Deeks, head of programme acquisition at the BBC, said the show “is a compelling, complex and emotional drama – beautifully filmed and performed.”

Damian Kavanagh, controller of BBC3, added: “BBC3 has a rich history in offering drama that covers issues that matter to young people, and Barracuda fits that mould.”

The acquisition follows the end of BBC3’s linear broadcast in February. The youth-skewing channel has been available online only via the BC iPlayer ever since.