AMC Acquires UK Crime Drama 'This City Is Ours' for US Streaming

Ricky Gervais

Comedian, writer, and actor who created "The Office" and writes provocatively on comedy and society.

AMC Networks has acquired the U.S. streaming rights for the highly anticipated UK crime drama 'This City Is Ours'. Produced by Left Bank Pictures, renowned for 'The Crown', the series is set to launch on AMC+ next month, bringing its compelling narrative to American audiences. This acquisition follows the show's successful international debut at Sony Pictures Television's London Showcase, where it garnered widespread interest and secured numerous global distribution deals. The drama, lauded for its strong viewership in the UK, explores intricate themes within a criminal enterprise, promising a gripping experience for viewers.

AMC+ Secures Exclusive US Rights to Hit UK Crime Series 'This City Is Ours'

In a significant move for international television distribution, AMC Networks has officially obtained the exclusive U.S. streaming rights to the British crime drama, 'This City Is Ours'. The series, crafted by Left Bank Pictures, the acclaimed production company behind 'The Crown' and 'Dept. Q', is scheduled to premiere on the AMC+ platform in the upcoming month. This acquisition was announced in the lead-up to Sony Pictures Television's London Showcase, an event where the drama was initially introduced to a global market in 2025.

The Liverpool-set crime saga has already proven to be a major success in its home country. In 2025, 'This City Is Ours' became the BBC's most-watched new drama launch, attracting an impressive average of 5.8 million viewers. The inaugural episode alone captivated over 7.8 million viewers, more than tripling its initial overnight figures. Furthermore, nearly three million individuals streamed the series finale prior to its broadcast on BBC One, highlighting its strong digital appeal. Following this exceptional performance, the BBC greenlit a second season, which is currently in production across Liverpool and Spain, promising more thrilling episodes.

Jason Spivak, Co-President of Distribution & Networks at Sony Pictures Television, expressed his enthusiasm for the deal, stating, "We are delighted that 'This City Is Ours' will be making its U.S. debut on AMC+, a testament to its universal appeal." He further emphasized the show's capacity to resonate with audiences, noting that it skillfully navigates the timeless elements of a family-driven crime drama, depicting a powerful narrative set against the backdrop of a criminal empire where themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal are central. Spivak also highlighted the momentum generated since the series' successful launch at last year's London Screenings, indicating a promising future as this year's event approaches.

The first season of 'This City Is Ours' was commissioned by Lindsay Salt, the director of BBC Drama. The series was created and primarily written by Stephen Butchard, with additional episodes penned by Robbie O'Neill. Directorial duties were shared by Saul Dibb, known for his work on 'The Salisbury Poisonings' and 'The Sixth Commandment', and John Hayes, who directed 'Nightsleeper' and 'Dublin Murders'. Simon Maloney, recognized for 'Peaky Blinders' and 'I May Destroy You', served as the producer. Executive producers include Andy Harries, Rebecca Hodgson, and Sian McWilliams from Left Bank Pictures, alongside Stephen Butchard and Saul Dibb. Jo McClellan and Sami El Hadi represented the BBC as executive producers. Financial backing and logistical support for the production were also provided by the Liverpool Film Office, through the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority's LCR Production Fund.

The acquisition of 'This City Is Ours' by AMC Networks underscores the burgeoning global demand for high-quality, character-driven crime dramas. This series exemplifies how compelling storytelling, coupled with strong production values, can transcend geographical boundaries and captivate diverse audiences. For viewers, it offers an opportunity to immerse themselves in a meticulously crafted world where the dynamics of a criminal family unfold with intense drama and psychological depth. For the industry, it highlights the continued strategic importance of international co-productions and distribution deals in a competitive streaming landscape, proving that well-executed genre content remains a powerful draw. The show's success in the UK and subsequent global sales demonstrate a clear appetite for narratives that explore the complexities of human nature within morally ambiguous settings.

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