What is a Co-Commissioned TV Show?

A co-commissioned TV show is a project jointly funded and produced by two or more broadcasters, streaming platforms, or production companies. Unlike traditional commissioning, where a single network finances the project, co-commissioning allows multiple entities to pool resources, share risks, and secure broader distribution across different regions.

This strategy has gained momentum as networks seek cost-effective ways to produce premium content while expanding their global reach. Popular genres for co-commissioning include scripted dramas, documentaries, and large-scale factual entertainment.

How Does Co-Commissioning Work?

Co-commissioning typically follows a structured process:

1️⃣ Partnership Formation

• Networks, streamers, or production companies come together based on mutual content interests.
• Deals are brokered by producers, distributors, or market intermediaries like Vitrina.

2️⃣ Budget and Cost-Sharing

• Partners agree on production costs and how expenses will be split.
• Some parties contribute financially, while others offer distribution rights or marketing support.

3️⃣ Production & Creative Control

• The production is managed by a lead production company, with input from all co-commissioning parties.
• Creative decisions, editorial control, and localization strategies are pre-negotiated.

4️⃣ Distribution & Broadcasting

• Each co-commissioning partner gets exclusive or shared rights to air the content in their region.
• Some partners may pre-buy rights for a particular territory or audience segment.

Benefits of Co-Commissioning

✅ Financial Advantages

• Reduces financial burden on a single broadcaster.
• Allows for higher production quality with a larger combined budget.

✅ Wider Global Reach

• Ensures international exposure by securing multiple regional distribution deals.
• Helps content reach diverse audiences across markets.

✅ Access to Specialized Talent & Resources

• Enables collaborations with top-tier production houses and specialist service providers.
• Encourages diversity in storytelling with regional insights and expertise.

Challenges of Co-Commissioned Productions

Despite its advantages, co-commissioning comes with complexities:

❌ Creative Conflicts

• Different broadcasters may have varying content preferences, leading to disagreements.

❌ Rights & Revenue Distribution

• Legal frameworks can be complex when defining distribution rights, profit shares, and exclusivity terms.

❌ Logistical Coordination

• Managing multiple production schedules across different territories can be challenging.

Who Benefits from Film Project Tracking?

1. Broadcasters & Streamers
   • Identify content in early stages for acquisitions or pre-buys.
2. Production & Post-Production Vendors
   • Target projects needing services such as VFX, editing, or localization.
3. Content Distributors
   • Monitor projects nearing completion for potential licensing opportunities.
4. Financiers
   • Spot co-production and investment opportunities in projects with strong market potential.

Examples of Successful Co-Commissioned TV Shows

📺 “His Dark Materials” – BBC & HBO co-commissioned this high-end fantasy drama.
📺 “Planet Earth II” – BBC partnered with multiple networks globally to share costs.
📺 “The Night Manager” – A collaboration between BBC and AMC.
📺 “Criminal” – A unique police procedural co-commissioned by Netflix across multiple countries.