Apple TV+’s acclaimed sitcom “Trying,” starring Rafe Spall and Esther Smith, has been acquired by the BBC, marking a significant move for the heartwarming comedy series. The show, which follows the journey of a couple navigating the challenges of adoption, has garnered praise for its blend of humor and emotional depth. This deal will bring the first three seasons of the British series, created by Andy Wolton, to BBC audiences, expanding its reach beyond the streaming platform. The acquisition underscores the growing collaboration between streaming services and traditional broadcasters, allowing “Trying” to connect with viewers across the UK.
In a first-of-its-kind deal, the pubcaster has acquired the first three seasons of Andy Wolton‘s show starring Rafe Spall and Esther Smith for both linear and iPlayer, and Season 1 will launch September 8. We understand the deal comes with the option to buy further seasons of “Trying,” which will soon launch its fifth season on Apple. BBC Studios brokered the deal.
“Trying” is Apple TV+‘s longest-running sitcom and was the first commission for Apple Europe TV boss Jay Hunt, who has gone on to greenlight hits like “Slow Horses” and “Bad Sisters.”
“’Trying’ isn’t trying to be the loudest show but it’s one that people really fall deeply in love with,” said Josh Cole, who runs Trying producer BBC Studios Comedy Productions. “I’m pleased that it will be seen by a whole new audience.”
The BBC has never bought an Apple TV+ show before but, once their initial windows run down, Apple shows represent a real opportunity for local linear networks around the world. The streamer still has a relatively low take-up in big territories and now boasts a healthy originals library of shows that can be sold in second windows.
MacDailyNews Take: Congrats to the cast, crew, and producers of “Trying!”
As we wrote back in June 2022, “If you like “Ted Lasso,” we highly recommend “Trying,” an extremely likable, nuanced, gem of a series.”
Also of note, Scarlett Rayner, who plays adoptee Princess, is a standout actress.
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