Channel 4 has commissioned Beth, a three-part science fiction drama, as its first original drama specifically for its YouTube channel, as well as Channel 4 Streaming and linear broadcast.
Here’s the Lowdown: Written and directed by Uzo Oleh, Beth stars Nicholas Pinnock and Abbey Lee as a married couple, Joe and Molly, who experience an unusual event after the birth of their daughter. The baby, Imogen, is Caucasian, bearing no resemblance to her Black father, Joe. This leads Joe to a shocking discovery.
What This Means Now: This marks a significant move for Channel 4, venturing into original drama production for its digital platforms. The project demonstrates that short-form, episodic drama can attract high-caliber talent.
The Bigger Picture: Channel 4 is continuing to innovate in the digital space, supporting emerging talent and exploring new storytelling formats. The series is a 3×15′ drama for YouTube and Channel 4 Streaming, with a 1×45′ linear broadcast planned. It was developed through Channel 4’s Diverse Indies Fund, which supports ethnically diverse-led independent production companies. The talent of the writer and director is such that it has attracted two big stars to the roles.
