Disney+ and Apple TV+ deals boost Shardlake maker

The Forge Entertainment, responsible for creating shows like Shardlake for Disney+ and The Buccaneers for Apple TV+, saw a significant boost in turnover. In recent reports, the London-based production company revealed a turnover of £71.1m for the nine months leading up to the end of 2023. This impressive increase is up from the reported £14.2m turnover for the 12 months prior.

Both The Buccaneers and Shardlake garnered attention and acclaim, with The Buccaneers’ first season released on Apple TV+ in November 2023, quickly leading to the announcement of a second season. Shardlake hit Disney+ screens in May 2024, captivating audiences with its storytelling.

Aside from these hit shows, The Forge Entertainment is also known for other popular TV series such as Generation Z, Ackley Bridge, Roadkill, The Accident, and National Treasure.

The company’s financial health improved, with its pre-tax loss declining from £11.2m to £10.6m. Additionally, its UK turnover rose from £12.9m to £19.5m, and sales to the USA surged from £1.2m to £51.6m.

The Forge Entertainment emphasized that its success hinges on producing outstanding television programs and retaining top talent. As they continue to grow, they are diversifying their customer portfolio to make the most of opportunities across different broadcast platforms.

Owned by Banijay, the same company behind hit shows like Masterchef and Would I Lie To You, The Forge Entertainment is making waves in the streaming entertainment industry. With each new production, they are solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in the world of television.