Disney+ Greenlights UK Version Of ABC News’ ‘20/20’

Disney+ has commissioned the first international adaptation of ABC News' investigative news magazine franchise, '20/20'. The UK version, titled '20/20 Britain’s Most Notorious Crime Investigations', is set to premiere next week and will delve into six high-profile criminal cases. This marks a significant expansion of the 50-year-old American series into global markets.

The inaugural UK season will feature a deep dive into cases such as that of Jane Andrews, a former aide to the Duchess of York, who was convicted of murdering her boyfriend. The series aims to leverage the established '20/20' format, known for its in-depth reporting and exclusive interviews, to explore compelling crime narratives within the British context. The move signifies Disney+'s strategy to localize popular content for its international subscribers.

'20/20' has been a staple of ABC News programming in the United States since its debut in 1978, covering a wide array of significant events, true crime stories, and investigative journalism. The franchise has garnered numerous awards and a dedicated viewership over its decades-long run. The decision to produce a UK-specific iteration suggests confidence in the format's appeal beyond American borders and a desire to tap into local interest in true crime storytelling.