Eric Schrier Showcases Adult Content on Disney+, Emphasizes Fearlessness and Failure
Eric Schrier, the president of Disney Television Studios and head of global original television strategy at Disney Entertainment, made headlines at the recent Content London event. During his keynote address, Schrier emphasized Disney’s commitment to adult content on Disney+, highlighting the streaming platform’s evolution as it enters its second phase.
Disney+ Expands with Adult Content
At Kings Place, Schrier participated in a candid discussion with producer Roma Khanna about the direction Disney is taking. He acknowledged the challenge of balancing Disney’s family-friendly brand with the adult content increasingly available on the platform. While some may see Disney primarily as a children’s entertainment outlet, Schrier underscored their desire to diversify content offerings.
Limited Series vs. Returnable Series
Schrier discussed the importance of both limited series and long-running shows. He noted that while many streaming services focus on returnable series, Disney+ remains committed to greenlighting limited series. This strategic choice was influenced by FX’s successful history with limited series, which were initially met with skepticism.
- Schrier emphasized that series like Grey’s Anatomy and The Simpsons are important but so are limited series.
- He acknowledged the challenges in changing the perception of Disney+ as a solely family-oriented service.
Hulu’s Role in Global Strategy
Schrier praised Hulu as a pivotal part of their content strategy, indicating that original content for adults will primarily be branded under Hulu. He articulated a vision for Disney+ that highlights the integration of Hulu’s identity while maintaining a diverse range of programming. This move is designed to showcase adult content effectively on the platform.
Local Content and Global Partnerships
Schrier also addressed Disney’s approach to international markets. He highlighted the importance of building partnerships with free-to-air broadcasters to leverage local content and distribution. The executive emphasized that successful programs like the U.K.’s Rivals have played a crucial role in establishing a foothold in local markets.
Creative Risk-Taking
Schrier, who describes himself as a “film nerd,” advocates for creative risk-taking within the Disney+ framework. He supports giving creative leaders the freedom to experiment, asserting that some degree of failure is acceptable in the creative process. This philosophy has reportedly led to a smaller failure rate and positive return on investment for the platform.
Upcoming Content to Watch
Looking ahead, Disney+ is set to launch several projects, including:
- Mosquito: A new relationship comedy featuring Nicholas Hoult and Daisy Edgar-Jones.
- Alice and Steve: A fresh clip from the upcoming series starring Nicola Walker and Jemaine Clement was recently revealed.
As Disney+ continues to develop its content lineup, Schrier remains optimistic about attracting audiences with a mix of unique storytelling and adventure across diverse genres.
