Disney+ Expands Content Offerings in Italy Through RAI Partnership

Disney+ has entered into a new content partnership with Italy's state broadcaster RAI, marking a significant step in the streaming service's strategy to enhance its European offerings. This agreement, announced on Tuesday, follows closely on the heels of a similar deal with Spain's RTVE, allowing selected RAI programs to be available on Disney+ the day after their broadcast on RAI 2.

Hollywood Reporter

Under this deal, popular shows such as the talk show "Belve," hosted by Francesca Fagnani, and the game show "The Floor – Ne rimarrà solo uno," presented by Paola Perego and Gabriele Vagnato, will be accessible to Disney+ subscribers in Italy. Additionally, Disney+ will incorporate a selection of RAI's acclaimed past series, including "Braccialetti rossi," "Mina Settembre," "L’amica geniale," "Un passo dal cielo," and "Màkari," along with the docu-reality series "Il Collegio." These titles will be organized into a dedicated collection on the platform, enhancing the local content available to viewers.

Disney+ strucked a content partnership with Italy's Rai

This partnership builds on over 40 years of collaboration between Disney and RAI, reflecting a broader trend where Disney+ seeks to partner with free-to-air broadcasters across Europe. Previous agreements have been established with ITV in the UK, ARD and ZDF in Germany, SIC in Portugal, and Atresmedia in Spain. These collaborations aim to leverage the established audience and production capabilities of local broadcasters while providing Disney+ with culturally relevant content.

Disney+ Signs New Deal With Rai

Karl Holmes, General Manager of Disney+ EMEA, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “This collaboration with RAI will bring Disney+ customers in Italy an even broader selection of incredibly iconic local shows.” He noted that RAI's deep connection with viewers and its legacy of high-quality storytelling make this agreement a natural extension of their long-standing relationship. Holmes also highlighted that the initiative aligns with Disney's strategy to work with free-to-air broadcasters to help them reach wider audiences.

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While the partnership has been generally well-received, some industry observers express concerns about Disney's shift from original content production to licensing existing shows. Critics argue that while this strategy may be cost-effective, it could dilute Disney's brand identity and creative output in the long run.

Disney+ Signs New Deal With Rai

As Disney+ continues to expand its European footprint, further partnerships with local broadcasters are anticipated. This strategy not only enhances Disney+'s content library but also positions the platform competitively in the increasingly crowded streaming market.

Hollywood Reporter

• “This collaboration with Rai will bring Disney+ customers in Italy an even broader selection of incredibly iconic local shows.” — Karl Holmes, General Manager, Disney+ EMEA

The Wrap

• “Building on over 40 years of Disney and RAI working alongside each other in Italy, this initiative also aligns with our approach to working with free-to-air broadcasters across Europe, helping them bring their stories to wider audiences while giving Disney+ customers more extraordinary local entertainment and more ways to enjoy the shows they love.” — Karl Holmes, General Manager, Disney+ EMEA

Hollywood Reporter

This partnership with RAI signifies Disney+'s commitment to enriching its content offerings and adapting to local market dynamics, ensuring a diverse viewing experience for its subscribers in Italy.

Hollywood Reporter