In April 2013, Universal Channel announced that it had secured the UK rights to Bates Motel, a prequel series to Alfred Hitchcock’s legendary thriller Psycho. The series, which explored the early life of Norman Bates and his troubled relationship with his mother, was set to become a key part of Universal Channel’s programming lineup.
The show, starring Freddie Highmore as Norman Bates and Vera Farmiga as his mother, Norma, was praised for its intense psychological drama and dark, atmospheric tone. Set in the small town of White Pine Bay, the series delves into the origins of the iconic character, shedding light on his formative years and the events that eventually lead him down a path to becoming the infamous motel owner and killer.
Bates Motel received positive reviews for its ability to mix horror, mystery, and family drama, offering a fresh take on the Psycho universe while exploring the complex dynamics of the Bates family. The series’ compelling characters and intriguing plot twists kept viewers hooked from episode to episode.
With the UK rights acquisition, Universal Channel introduced the show to British audiences, offering fans of psychological thrillers a chance to dive into the backstory of one of cinema’s most iconic villains. The network’s commitment to airing such a high-profile series showcased its dedication to providing top-tier content to its viewers.
The success of Bates Motel further solidified Universal Channel’s place as a destination for dark, suspenseful drama series, making it a key player in the competitive television landscape.