BSkyB teams up with FX Networks for comedy

BSkyB has teamed up FX Networks to work on developing new comedy shows for audiences in the UK and Ireland and the US.

Sky and FX have struck a two year deal to co-fund and co-develop new half-hour adult scripted comedy. If projects are commissioned the shows will be broadcast on the Sky 1 HD of Sky Atlantic channels in the UK and Ireland and FX Networks channels in the US.

Sky said the goal was to create shows that can sit alongside existing series including A Touch of Cloth and Alan Partridge’s Mid-Morning Matters and FX Networks’ Louie and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Home-grown Sky shows that have previously been broadcast on US networks include An Idiot Abroad, A Young Doctor’s Notebook, Spy, Moone Boy and Doll and Em.

“We’re hugely excited about working with FX Networks to develop distinctive brand new comedy and further strengthen our commitment to original home-grown programming,” said Lucy Lumsden, Sky’s head of comedy.

“Partnering with the world’s most renowned broadcasters lets us bring Sky customers something truly special, and we look forward to working with the most talented comedy writers and performers in both Britain and the US.”