Disney+ Partners with RTVE for Landmark Content Deal in Spain

Walt Disney's streaming service, Disney+, has entered into a significant content agreement with Spain's public broadcaster RTVE, marking a historic first in Europe. This deal allows RTVE to make select shows available on Disney+ the day after their linear broadcasts, starting March 31. Among the featured programs is the popular culinary competition "MasterChef," which will include the 14th season and the celebrity version, "MasterChef Celebrity." This agreement also encompasses scripted content, including the upcoming series "Rojo Sobre Blanco," produced by Mediawan's Good Mood.

Variety MagazineDeadline HollywoodDisney+ Makes Deal with Spanish Broadcaster RTVE, Bringing Popular Series Like "MasterChef" Straight to the Streamer

The collaboration aims to enhance the entertainment offerings for Disney+ subscribers while providing RTVE with a new distribution channel to reach younger audiences. Disney+ has been actively pursuing partnerships with major European free-to-air broadcasters, including ITV in the U.K., ARD and ZDF in Germany, and SIC in Portugal. This strategy is designed to complement Disney+'s global content with local programming that resonates with regional viewers.

Hollywood ReporterVariety MagazineDisney+ strikes Spanish content deal with RTVE

Karl Holmes, Disney+ EMEA General Manager, emphasized the mutual benefits of the agreement, stating, “RTVE is loved by viewers in Spain, with a rich heritage of decades of incredible shows. Through this agreement, we are delighted to bring some of RTVE’s most iconic new shows to Disney+ customers.” He noted that the collaboration reflects Disney's commitment to enriching its service and showcasing Spanish creative talent.

Variety MagazineHollywood ReporterDisney+ Signs New Deal With RTVE

This deal not only reinforces Disney+'s commitment to Spanish audiovisual production but also aligns with RTVE's goals to maximize the visibility of its content through strategic partnerships. The agreement is part of a broader trend where streaming platforms are increasingly collaborating with traditional broadcasters to adapt to changing viewer habits and preferences.

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While the deal has been largely welcomed, some critics argue that such partnerships may dilute the unique identity of local broadcasters by placing their content on global platforms. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on traditional viewing habits and the long-term sustainability of public broadcasting in the face of growing streaming competition.

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As the partnership unfolds, both Disney+ and RTVE are expected to explore further synergies that could lead to additional projects. The first episodes of "MasterChef" and "Rojo Sobre Blanco" will premiere on Disney+ shortly after their initial broadcasts, with more titles anticipated to be announced in the future.

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• “This collaboration reflects our commitment to working closely with Europe’s greatest free-to-air broadcasters, bringing their high-quality local storytelling to younger and new audiences.” — Karl Holmes, Disney+ EMEA General Manager

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• “Through this agreement, we are delighted to bring some of RTVE’s most iconic new shows to Disney+ customers which are some of the most popular and recognized formats in Spanish television.” — Karl Holmes, Disney+ EMEA General Manager

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This landmark agreement between Disney+ and RTVE signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of content distribution in Europe, highlighting the growing intersection of traditional broadcasting and streaming services.

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