Sky and Starz have partnered to co-commission “Fightland,” a new British boxing drama executive produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, with production having recently concluded in London, according to announcements made Thursday.
The collaboration marks a continuation of the existing relationship between Sky and Starz, which has previously included co-productions of the period drama “Amadeus” and the darkly comedic thriller “Sweetpea.” This latest agreement also establishes a “first look” arrangement, granting Sky early access to select upcoming series developed by Starz.
“Fightland” centers on Maduka “Duke” Kilroy, portrayed by Howard Charles, a former boxing champion seeking retribution against a criminal organization he believes orchestrated his downfall. The series is described as a story of “redemption, betrayal, and brutal ambition” within the world of British boxing.
The eight-episode first season is scheduled to premiere later this year on the Starz app and platform in the United States, and will be broadcast on Sky and the streaming service NOW in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
This project represents Starz’s first wholly owned series, signaling a strategic shift towards building a pipeline of self-owned intellectual property as a standalone company. Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming at Starz, stated the network is “thrilled to be stepping back in the ring with our partners at Sky” and highlighted the series’ blend of “action and fearless, character-driven storytelling.”
Katie Keenan, Group Director of Acquisitions for Sky UK and Europe, described “Fightland” as a “bold and compelling British production with a distinctive voice and the potential for true global impact,” adding that the series aligns with Sky’s strategy of offering “premium, character-driven storytelling” to its audience.
In addition to Jackson, the series boasts an executive production team including Francis Hopkinson and Kate Leadbetter of Expanded Media. Damione Macedon and Raphael Jackson Jr. Serve as showrunners, executive producers, and writers, with Daniel Fajemisin-Duncan and Marlon Smith also contributing as executive producers and writers.