PBS acquires U.S. rights to New Zealand musical comedy "Happiness" from DCD Rights

London-based distributor DCD Rights has secured a major North American deal for the original musical comedy series "Happiness" (6 x 30’), selling the U.S. broadcast and digital rights to PBS Distribution. The deal includes not only the first season but also a pre-buy for the second season, which is currently in pre-production and slated for delivery in 2026.

Germaine Deagan Sweet, Managing Director of Content Acquisitions at PBS Distribution, commented, “We’re drawn to content that feels fresh and uplifting, and 'Happiness' delivers exactly that. Its mix of humour, music and heartfelt storytelling makes it a natural fit for our audience, who value meaningful entertainment with real warmth at its core.”

Nicky Davies Williams, CEO of DCD Rights, added, “‘Happiness’ delivers six hours of joyous comedy, music and entertainment that is warm and fun for all. We’re delighted to have another antipodean hit series, charmingly crafted by leading creatives and acting talent, to share with the world.”

Produced by Greenstone TV for Three/Sky Free with support from NZ On Air, "Happiness" is a New Zealand-made series centered on the comedic highs and lows of an amateur theatrical group in Tauranga. The story follows Charlie Summers, a Broadway director and hometown returnee, played by Harry McNaughton ("Under the Vines", "Madam"), who finds himself reluctantly back in his childhood bedroom and helping his mother Gaye, portrayed by Rebecca Gibney ("A Remarkable Place to Die", "The Brokenwood Mysteries"), run the local community theatre group Pizazz.

At the heart of the plot is Pizazz's first-ever original production, "The Trojan Horse," helmed by the fearsome director Adrian Templeton. The musical features dancing soldiers, special effects, and a spectacular wooden horse. As Charlie attempts to elevate the production’s quality, he inadvertently disrupts group dynamics, leading to tensions just as the show races toward its premiere.

The acquisition continues PBS’s commitment to uplifting, character-driven storytelling, while reinforcing DCD Rights’ global distribution footprint in scripted comedy. "Happiness" is expected to air on PBS later in 2025.