brand to be vibrant and dynamic, stronger, and visible,” he adds.
“Having in a market like the UK and gaining a broader following is incredibly helpful to Netflix’s strategic foundations.” Perrette acknowledges that while the future of HBO Max might be uncertain due to potential acquisitions, this launch is part of a long-term strategy. “It’s an uphill battle,” he admits, but it’s one that WBD is committed to.
The Harry Potter Moment
Perrette highlights the upcoming release of the Harry Potter series as a significant streaming event. This series will not only be big for HBO Max but potentially for streaming history in general. “It’s the biggest streaming event in the history of HBO Max and arguably in streaming, period,” he asserts.
Tying the Knot with Prime Video
During the press briefing, Perrette also made a point to differentiate between HBO Max and Prime Video. He stated that if you want everything, “the only place you can get it is HBO Max.” This move is strategic, aiming to carve out a unique identity for the platform in the highly competitive streaming landscape.
Warner Bros. Discovery’s Andrew Georgiou further emphasized this point by noting the 21 million streaming subscribers in the UK who are not part of Comcast-owned Sky. “To offer a completely different proposition than Sky is compelling,” he added, highlighting the potential for growth and differentiation within the market.
The Talent Play
Perrette also talked about how the rollout across major European territories like the UK helps with talent relations. “It’s hard when telling creative talent in Italy, Germany, or the UK that their work will be available in one place here and in a different place elsewhere,” he said. “Now we have a ubiquitous footprint, which is hugely compelling for creatives.” This move is not just about business but also about creating a global presence.
Casey Bloys, HBO’s boss, has good relationships with all UK co-pro partners beyond Sky, Perrette added. “Over time, we will continue to explore ways in which we can do more in this market,” he said, leaving the door open for future growth and collaboration.
The rollout of major series like Harry Potter is a clear signal that Warner Bros. Discovery is committed to making significant investments in streaming content. This move is about more than just launching a platform; it’s about creating a media ecosystem where all parts can thrive.
