Disney+ is making waves in the international streaming market by launching an international version of ABC News' iconic '20/20' franchise in the UK. This move marks a significant shift in the landscape of news programming, as one of America's most popular news franchises ventures into a new territory. The series, titled '20/20 Britain's Most Notorious Crime Investigations', will air on Disney+ in the UK and Disney+ and Hulu in the U.S., bringing high-profile UK crime cases to a global audience. The show will feature six high-profile UK crime cases, including the murder of Jane Andrews, the disappearance of Joanna Yeates, and the abduction of Ben Needham. These cases have already been adapted into successful TV dramas, adding a layer of intrigue to the series. The launch of '20/20 Britain's Most Notorious Crime Investigations' is a strategic move by Disney+, as it aims to capitalize on the growing demand for true crime content. The company has been given a bigger budget and is expanding its true crime push, with a focus on international productions. This move comes as rivals Netflix and Prime Video dominate the international true crime market. The series is produced by Candle Media-backed docs indie Candle True Stories, run by former ABC News boss James Goldston, and co-produced with ABC News Studios. The executive production team includes Goldston, Alicia Kerr, Ralph Perring, David Sloan, and Eamon McNiff. The Hulu original was commissioned by Sean Doyle, Vice President, Unscripted, Disney+ EMEA. This international expansion of '20/20' is a testament to the franchise's enduring appeal and its ability to adapt to changing media landscapes. As Disney+ continues to grow its content library, this move signals a new dawn for one of America's most popular news franchises, bringing a fresh perspective to the world of true crime storytelling.
