Why Hollywood Studios Have Made the London TV Screenings a Must-Attend

Hollywood studios are increasingly embracing the London TV Screenings (LTVS) as a key event in the global television sales calendar. Traditionally, the LA Screenings in May were the main showcase, timed after U.S. networks confirmed their pickups. But with commissioning now a year-round process, London in February has become a strategic early touchpoint.

NBCUniversal’s Michael Bonner explained: “Our production partners are delivering content year-round, so we’re selling year-round as well, and LTVS has become an important early touchpoint in our sales calendar.”

A Global Buyer Hub

London offers a unique mix of buyers from the UK, Europe, Australia, North America, and Asia. Fox Entertainment Global’s Prentiss Fraser noted that the event allows studios to engage buyers early in the year, setting the tone for upcoming deals. The concentration of international executives makes the trip efficient and highly valuable.

Showcases and Premieres

Studios are using LTVS to highlight major projects:

• NBCU is promoting The Five-Star Weekend, Prisoner, and Ted: The Animated Series.
• Paramount is screening dramas like CIA and M.I.A., alongside unscripted shows such as America’s Culinary Cup.
• Sony Pictures Television is showcasing Dear England and S.W.A.T. Exiles, emphasizing the strength of its international IP.
• Fox Entertainment is premiering The Faithful: Women of the Bible at London’s National Gallery, with stars Minnie Driver and Jeffrey Donovan in attendance.

The Evolving Calendar

The global TV distribution cycle now revolves around three tentpole events: London in February, LA in May, and Cannes in October. Warner Bros. Discovery’s David Decker described it as a “nice set of dates with a hammock in between,” allowing studios and buyers to regroup and strategize throughout the year.

The Power of Catalogs

Beyond new shows, studios are capitalizing on “newstalgia” — the resurgence of classic series with new audiences. Warner Bros. Discovery highlighted the enduring success of Friends, The Big Bang Theory, and Gilmore Girls, while medical dramas like ER continue to find fresh relevance.

Looking Ahead

With industry consolidation on the horizon — including potential mergers involving Paramount, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Sky — the London TV Screenings are set to become even more influential. For now, Hollywood’s biggest players are in town, making deals and shaping the global TV landscape.