BBC Set to Produce Original Programmes for YouTube in Major Streaming Shift
GeokHub
London | Jan 16, 2026 — GeokHub The BBC is preparing to produce original programmes specifically for YouTube for the first time, marking a significant shift in strategy as the British public broadcaster looks to reach younger audiences and generate new revenue amid changing viewing habits.
According to people familiar with the plans, the BBC will create tailored shows designed for YouTube, which will later also be made available on the broadcaster’s own platforms, including BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds. An official announcement could come as early as next week.
Neither the BBC nor Google, YouTube’s parent company, has publicly commented on the reported agreement.
Reaching Younger Audiences and New Revenue
The move reflects the BBC’s effort to stay relevant as more viewers, particularly younger ones, spend time on streaming and social video platforms rather than traditional television.
While the BBC’s domestic services are funded through a mandatory licence fee and remain free of advertising within the UK, the YouTube partnership would allow the broadcaster to earn advertising revenue internationally, where the licence fee does not apply.
The strategy is expected to focus primarily on new, digital-first programming rather than repackaging existing content. A limited number of older BBC shows could also appear on YouTube, though this is not expected to be a central part of the deal.
YouTube Overtakes BBC in UK Reach
The timing is notable. In December, YouTube narrowly overtook the BBC as the most-watched video platform in the UK, highlighting how viewing habits continue to shift away from traditional broadcasters toward online platforms.
For the BBC, partnering with YouTube offers access to a massive global audience while retaining control of its core public-service offerings at home.
Legal Pressure Adds to Strategic Stakes
The reported deal comes as the BBC faces legal pressure abroad. U.S. President Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit seeking at least $10 billion in damages, alleging that edited BBC footage of a past speech misrepresented his remarks related to the January 6 Capitol unrest.
The broadcaster has acknowledged an editing error, issued an apology, and seen the departure of two senior executives. However, it has pledged to contest the lawsuit and is seeking to have it dismissed.
Despite the legal challenges, the BBC appears determined to push ahead with a digital strategy aimed at securing its long-term future in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
