Starzplay Channel 4 Ink Deals For Hulus The Great

Starzplay and Channel 4 have struck a joint deal to bring Hulu’s historical comedy drama The Great to UK audiences.

The agreement will see The Great made available to viewers through Starzplay, with Channel 4 also securing rights to broadcast the series. The partnership reflects a growing trend of collaboration between UK broadcasters and streaming platforms to acquire high profile US drama.

The Great offers a satirical reimagining of the rise of Catherine the Great, blending historical events with modern humour and sharp political commentary. The series is known for its deliberately anachronistic tone, positioning itself as a comic interpretation rather than a traditional period drama.

The show stars Elle Fanning as Catherine, a young noblewoman who arrives in Russia for an arranged marriage and gradually plots her path to power. Nicholas Hoult co stars as Emperor Peter, whose erratic and immature rule becomes a central target of Catherine’s ambition.

Hulu’s adaptation has been praised for its bold writing, visual style and irreverent approach to history. Critics have highlighted the performances of Fanning and Hoult, as well as the show’s ability to balance dark comedy with moments of genuine political insight.

For Channel 4, the acquisition aligns with its long standing reputation for distinctive and boundary pushing drama. The broadcaster has increasingly sought out internationally produced series that match its editorial identity and appeal to younger, digitally savvy audiences.

Starzplay’s involvement ensures the series will also reach subscribers through its streaming service, adding another acclaimed title to its growing UK catalogue. The deal strengthens Starzplay’s position as a destination for premium scripted drama with global appeal.

The partnership allows both platforms to maximise the show’s reach, combining Channel 4’s traditional broadcast audience with Starzplay’s on demand subscriber base. This dual release strategy reflects changing viewing habits and the demand for flexible access to high end drama.

A UK premiere date has yet to be confirmed, but anticipation is already building following the show’s success in the United States. With its sharp satire and high profile cast, The Great is expected to perform strongly with British audiences when it arrives.