Netflix joins Bafta talent scheme

Global streamer Netflix is partnering with the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) on the UK organisation’s Breakthrough Brits talent scheme.

Netflix will be Bafta’s main supporting partner for Breakthrough Brits, which was launched in 2013 to showcase and support creative talent across film, games and TV.

Bafta said the partnership with Netflix would help facilitate the global expansion of the initiative, uncovering talent in territories around the world from the US to India.

Breakthrough Brits has so far championed more than 100 UK newcomers, including actors Florence Pugh, Josh O’Connor, Malachi Kirby, Ray Panthaki and Molly Windsor, composer Segun Akinola, game producer Dan Gray and directors Destiny Ekaragha and Michael Pearce.

Now in its seventh year, the 2019 round of Breakthrough Brits is open for applications until June 12.

“Working with the film, games and television industries, we will continue to ensure emerging talent have the tools they need to develop skills at the start of their careers,” said Bafta CEO Amanda Berry.

“Expanding Breakthrough globally will enable creative and cultural exchange and form an international community of talented newcomers who will benefit from bespoke and unique support.”