A+E Networks EMEA is expanding its venture into original short-form commissioning with a slate of new shows that reflect its broader digital remit and growing success in this area. Over the past year, A+E Networks EMEA’s Digital Originals have delivered over 10 million views across social media platforms. In that time, the digital commissioning team has worked with ten different production companies.
TikTok hair stylist James Busby is back with a second season of "Cut to The Crime", in which James’ hairdresser’s chair acts as a “confessional,” for from which survivors of crime and reformed perpetrators can share their remarkable stories at the same time as having their hair cut and styled. In each episode, James guides his ‘customers’ through a powerful and poignant chat that reveals the profound impact their true crime experience has had on them, their friends, their families, and the wider public. Produced by Phoenix, the 10-part series looks at cases of survivors of horrific acid and homophobic attacks, addiction, and personal stories from policemen and experts.
Launching in October 2024, "Listen to This" is a five-part short-form series from Zig Zag, featuring true crime content creator Charley Bourne and comedy influencer Jack Taylor. In each episode, they open a shocking new crime file, guiding us through the twists and turns and unpacking the details from the comfort of their sofas.
"Unbreakable", produced by Red Sauce, is a bold, gripping, and revelatory digital film and audio podcast series hosted by Nina Aouilk, a life coach and survivor of a childhood marked by extreme abuse. In each of the six episodes, released in November 2024, Nina comes face-to-face with female and male survivors of violent and abusive crime, creating a safe space for them to share not just the pain of their experiences but also the incredible journeys they took to escape.
Releasing in early 2025, "True Crime Secrets" is a new series from Particle6 that presents raw, unfiltered real-life crime stories told by those who experienced them firsthand. From attempted murder to daylight robbery, each episode features candid street interviews from across the UK, revealing the varied impact of crime on all our lives.
Sam Pearson, Head of Short Form Commissioning at A+E Networks EMEA, talked about the strategy behind the comissions: “With this fresh slate of short -form shows, we continue to build on our ambitious digital strategy, with new talent and voices, impactful stories, and a whole range of new entertainment formats that we hope audiences will love," commented.
All series can be enjoyed as a collection on Crime+Investigation Play, the A+E Networks EMEA streaming service, and on-demand video from all major cable and satellite providers with a weekly release on social media platforms.
