media update’s Aisling McCarthy attended the premier on Tuesday, 23 May at Langhams in Fourways.

Since launching their new global brand into the South African market nearly two years ago, the channel portfolio has gone from strength to strength, said BBC Worldwide’s GM and VP, Joel Churcher.

“Outside of the US, the BBC is the biggest producer of content.”

He continued, saying that as they continue to succeed, they can keep putting money back into the production of content and delivering media solutions to advertisers.

“Our plan is now to evolve BBC Brit into an even bigger, better, and broader channel, showcasing the very best in entertainment, ever-popular drama series, and top-rating game shows.”

BBC Brit will be premiering a new season of EastEnders and the ever-popular Strictly Come Dancing, as well as new titles such as The Good Karma Hospital, Death in Paradise, Carters Get Rich, as well as an exciting new title, Michael McIntyre’s Big Show.

Head of programming at BBC Worldwide, Africa, Kully Kaur-Bains, said that all five of their channels have seen record highs of viewing figures.

“[The channels] have achieved an impressive 17% uplift in share amongst adults aged 15+ during peak viewing hours over the last six months.”

Since the success of Planet Earth last year, Kaur-Bains said BBC Earth has continued to climb in popularity.

“BBC Earth has almost doubled its viewing figures since last year, climbing 42%. To keep this incredible momentum going, viewers will be able to look forward to the incredible new landmark series, Blue Planet II, later this year.”

Churcher said that in 2016, BBC Worldwide increased their presence in South Africa through their partnership with local production company, Rapid Blue.

”This move demonstrates our desire to expand in the region. We’re always looking for opportunities to collaborate with commercial partners to meet the demand for high-end, compelling, and locally produced content – like the hugely popular Great South African Bake Off.”

BBC Lifestyle will offer a third season of the Great South African Bake Off, as well as a new season of Celebrity Masterchef. Viewers can also expect some new shows on the channel such as Mary Berry Everyday, Jamie Oliver’s Super Food Classics, and Million Pound Movers.

Home to world-class dramas and series, BBC First ranks as DStv’s top international drama channel for average time watching, said Churcher.

“It’s a true testament to how well premium British programming resonates with South African audiences.”

Kaur-Bains said BBC First will offer some exciting programming such as Rillington Place, Silent Witness, and Top of the Lake: China Girl, which stars Nicole Kidman.

“BBC First is the home of unmissable premium British drama series which will surprise, delight, and entertain audiences this winter with its range of programming.”

Children’s channel, Cbeebies, will continue to entertain younger viewers, after having won Channel of the Year at the Children’s BAFTAS.

BBC Worldwide’s new advertising account director, Sarah-Jane Harling, highlighted the advertising opportunities owing to the popularity of the BBC channels.

“Our breadth and diversity of programming makes our channel portfolio a unique proposition for investment when it comes to advertising solutions in a South African market.”

For more information, visit www.bbcsouthafrica.com or follow the conversation using the hashtag, #BBCWUpfront

Interested in BBC Worldwide’s content? Read more in our article, For BBC Worldwide, premium content starts at great storytelling.