Disney+ partners with Matriarch Productions for a two-year deal to enhance U.K. original content, focusing on compelling narratives for global audiences.
- January 14, 2026
AceShowbiz - Disney+ has forged a two-year first-look agreement in the U.K. with Matriarch Productions, a company co-founded by actors and producers Stephen Graham and Hannah Walters. Known for their work in projects like A Thousand Blows, Deliver Me From Nowhere, and Adolescence, the duo aims to create engaging content for global audiences.
The deal is part of Disney+’s commitment to enhancing its local original production slate in the U.K. and will encompass both original scripted and unscripted series. This collaboration seeks to highlight compelling British narratives that resonate with viewers around the globe.
Matriarch Productions, alongside The Story Collective and Water & Power Productions, is also responsible for the Hulu original series A Thousand Blows, which has recently released its second season, now available for streaming on Disney+.
Expressing their excitement about the partnership, Graham and Walters stated, “We are beyond thrilled to be working with Disney+ and through this creative partnership will strive to produce inspiring, entertaining, and thought-provoking storytelling.” Their collaborative vision aligns closely with Disney+’s goal of amplifying diverse voices within the U.K. entertainment landscape.
Angela Jain, who leads content for Disney+ EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa), commented, “Stephen and Hannah have proven they know how to tell bold, impactful stories. Our vision also aligns with them regarding providing a platform for underrepresented voices in the U.K. Distinctive, local stories that entertain and resonate with audiences are what Disney+ is committed to championing, making Matriarch the perfect partners as we look to enhance our production slate in the U.K. This is a dream, and we’re thrilled to continue working with them.”
Furthermore, Lee Mason, VP of scripted content for Disney+ EMEA, added, “Stephen Graham and Hannah Walters are storytellers with real purpose — creative, fearless, and deeply committed to discovering, nurturing, and championing new talent. I’m genuinely excited to keep working with them and to support the kind of ambitious, distinctive work they want to produce with Disney+.”