Fremantle is taking the remastered version of the iconic police drama ‘Homicide: Life On The Streets’ on a global tour, recently clinching key deals in Canada and Israel. This comes shortly after the series debuted on Peacock, where it has garnered attention and renewed interest.
The well-respected series, which originally aired on NBC, features a star-studded cast including Andre Braugher, Richard Belzer, and Daniel Baldwin. Now, the remastered episodes are being offered to international buyers, with Israel’s YES and Canada’s Bell Media among the first to sign on. Bob McCourt, Fremantle’s Senior International Executive, hinted at the possibility of a remake, generating buzz among fans.
‘Homicide: Life On The Streets’ is credited with influencing many contemporary crime dramas, including ‘The Wire.’ The show, which ran for over 100 episodes and seven seasons throughout the 1990s, has become a defining piece of television history. McCourt noted that the revival coincides with an ongoing trend of classic 90s shows gaining traction on streaming platforms.
The series, which was expertly remastered in high definition in collaboration with NBCUniversal, has significantly enhanced visuals that McCourt described as “night and day” compared to the original broadcasts. He expressed optimism about the series, emphasizing the growing demand for remastered content on platforms aligned with newer TV technology.
Fremantle has experienced a positive response, with a diverse range of buyers showing interest, including traditional television networks and FAST (free ad-supported streaming television) channels. McCourt explained that buyers are now more inclined toward established procedurals, citing their ability to attract guaranteed viewership.
With these renewed deals, the opportunity for a modern reboot is becoming increasingly plausible, prompting McCourt to suggest that discussions about a format reboot could arise as the show garners international interest. Meanwhile, nostalgia for 90s programming is evident, with numerous iconic series being reintroduced to new audiences.
As the marketing momentum continues to build leading into MIPCOM in Cannes, it appears that ‘Homicide: Life On The Streets’ is not just making a comeback; it’s reasserting its place in the pantheon of great television stories. This revival stands as a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted narrative and compelling characters, aiming to resonate with both long-time fans and a new generation.