Key figures in the television industry gathered at the Content London conference on November 28, 2023, to explore emerging trends and opportunities in the global content landscape. The panel, titled “State of the Nation: Unlocking Fresh Opportunity in The New Content Economy,” featured prominent executives including Michael Thorn, president of Fox Television Network, Jane Turton, CEO of All3Media, and Mo Abudu, founder and CEO of EbonyLife Group. They addressed the evolving nature of content consumption and collaboration in the industry.
During the session, Heather Jones, general manager of Hearst Networks EMEA, highlighted a significant shift in viewer behavior. “Total screen time has leveled out now,” she noted, emphasizing that younger audiences are increasingly engaging with factual content on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. Jones pointed out that in the U.K., some individuals are scrolling up to 2 kilometers daily, surpassing their walking distances. She expressed confidence in Hearst’s capabilities in streaming, stating, “We got SVOD growing like a weed,” referring to the company’s efforts to repurpose existing TV content for digital platforms.
The discussion also addressed the complexities facing producers in the current market. Turton remarked on the necessity of adapting to a landscape where “the rules have been ripped up.” She underscored the importance of scale and experience, suggesting that smaller producers should seek collaborative partnerships with larger groups. Patrick Holland, CEO and executive chairman of Banijay U.K., echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are in an age of collaboration.” He identified major buyers like Netflix, Amazon, and Disney as key players in the market, emphasizing that independent producers need to connect with these larger entities to secure funding and distribution.
Thorn elaborated on Fox’s strategy, revealing that the network aims to partner with creative talents to identify and develop breakout original content across various price points. “Our number one goal is to find breakout original content at any price point,” he said. He explained that Fox does not possess an extensive intellectual property library like larger competitors, making it essential to seek out innovative projects. Thorn shared that in recent months, British networks have approached Fox to assist in finalizing financing for productions, allowing both parties to benefit from successful collaborations.
The conversation turned to diversity and representation in content creation. Abudu emphasized the importance of on-screen representation for underrepresented communities, stating, “It’s time to tell our stories.” She reflected on her own experiences with representation in media, highlighting the need for varied narratives in today’s content landscape.
Funding models emerged as a critical topic, with Turton noting the challenge of securing financial backing for projects that encourage risk-taking. Jones added that contemporary players are increasingly employing diverse funding and distribution strategies tailored to specific projects. Thorn mentioned the success of Fox’s Hazbin Hotel series on Amazon, describing it as an “anti-Disney musical” that benefited from a unique creative vision. The show’s creator, Vivienne Medrano, initially showcased the pilot on YouTube, which garnered attention and eventually led to a two-season order from Amazon.
The panelists also reflected on what makes certain shows resonate globally. Peaky Blinders, a gangster drama set in 1920s Birmingham, serves as a prime example. Its focused storytelling and high-quality production have contributed to its international appeal. Jones remarked, “The more local that little story about that particular local crime or that particular piece of history, the better it traveled.” This observation underscores the potential for localized narratives to capture a broader audience.
As the content landscape continues to evolve, industry leaders emphasize the importance of collaboration, diversity, and innovative funding models. The insights shared at Content London 2023 highlight the dynamic nature of the global content economy and the ongoing quest for engaging stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
