UK Writers Urge Streamers to Fund Future Talent

Steven Knight, known for creating Peaky Blinders and writing the upcoming James Bond film, has urged major U.S. streaming platforms to contribute financially to the development of emerging creative talent in the UK.

Appearing before the UK Parliament's Culture, Media and Sport Committee, Knight proposed a cooperative arrangement where streamers could help fund future generations of writers, directors, and craftspeople. He suggested this could even involve a program named after the streamer, emphasizing it as a sensible proposition for both the industry and the streamers themselves.

Knight stressed that any such initiative must not discourage streamers from investing in UK productions. This echoes past discussions, including a recommendation from the Culture, Media and Sport Committee for a 5% streamer levy, which the UK government has shown limited enthusiasm for.

Knight also highlighted the crucial role of the BBC in launching projects like Peaky Blinders, though he noted the broadcaster's tightening budgets. This has led to productions, such as the film 'Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man', seeking funding from platforms like Netflix.