Netflix signs UK rights for original series

Netflix has picked up the UK and Irish rights to Nordic mob drama Lilyhammer after striking a deal with SevenOne International.

The move follows the launch of Lilyhammer on the streaming service in the United States, marking the company’s first moves into original series. The series will be available on the service after its initial television debut on BBC4.

It was originally produced by Scandinavian indie Rubicon for Norwegian broadcaster NRK in association with SevenOne International, the sales arm of German broadcaster ProSiebenSat.1, which is distributing the show internationally.

“Many Netflix members in the US, Canada and Latin America have discovered Lilyhammer and are loving it,” said Ted Sarandos, chief content officer at Netflix. “We’re excited to also bring Lilyhammer to Netflix members in the UK and Ireland and confident that it will build a sizeable audience.”