Disney+ Inks First-Look Deal with Matriarch Productions

Disney+ has secured a significant new partnership with one of the United Kingdom's most dynamic production houses. The streaming service announced a two-year first-look agreement with Matriarch Productions, the company founded by acclaimed actor and producer Stephen Graham and his wife, producer Hannah Walters.

This strategic deal positions the platform to develop exclusive new content from the creative team behind recent hits "Adolescence" and "A Thousand Blows." The partnership represents a major commitment to British production talent and will expand the service's original programming slate across multiple genres.

The agreement establishes Matriarch Productions as a primary creative partner for the streaming platform in the United Kingdom. Under the terms of the deal, the production company will develop both scripted and unscripted series for exclusive consideration by the service.

This arrangement allows Disney+ to gain privileged access to projects emerging from the Matriarch development pipeline. The collaboration covers a comprehensive range of television formats, from dramatic series to documentary programming.

Key elements of the agreement include:

• Two-year exclusive development window
• Coverage of both scripted and unscripted formats
• UK-based production focus
• First-look rights for new series projects

Stephen Graham and Hannah Walters have built Matriarch Productions into a formidable force in British television. Graham, known for his intense character portrayals, has expanded his creative influence through producing, while Walters has established herself as a skilled producer and development executive.

The company has recently demonstrated its creative range with two notable series. "Adolescence" and "A Thousand Blows" showcase the duo's ability to shepherd compelling stories from concept to screen. Their production philosophy emphasizes authentic storytelling and strong character development.

The couple's dual expertise as both performers and producers brings unique value to the partnership. They understand the creative and practical demands of production from both perspectives, enabling them to navigate complex projects effectively.

The deal arrives at a pivotal moment for both parties. Disney+ continues to expand its global content library, with particular emphasis on regional production hubs. The UK market has become increasingly important for streaming platforms seeking diverse, high-quality programming.

For Matriarch Productions, the agreement provides stability and resources for ambitious project development. The partnership follows the successful premiere of their second season, demonstrating the company's ability to deliver consistent quality and meet production schedules.

This timing reflects the streaming industry's broader shift toward securing long-term relationships with proven creative teams rather than pursuing individual project deals.

The agreement signals Disney+'s continued investment in UK production infrastructure. By partnering with established local creators, the platform can develop content that resonates with British audiences while maintaining global appeal.

For the broader entertainment sector, this deal exemplifies the growing importance of first-look agreements in securing creative talent. Production companies gain financial stability and development support, while platforms secure priority access to promising projects.

The partnership may influence how other streaming services approach talent acquisition in competitive international markets.

The Disney+ and Matriarch Productions partnership will begin developing new projects immediately. Industry observers will be watching closely to see what types of series emerge from this collaboration, particularly given the company's recent success with both scripted and unscripted formats.

The two-year duration provides ample time for multiple projects to move through development and production cycles. This agreement represents a significant chapter in the ongoing evolution of international streaming partnerships and British production excellence.