Video service to make its own specials

Video-on-demand service Netflix is to start making its own stand-up specials.

The company recently moved into original programming, reviving cult comedy Arrested Development and making the political thriller House Of Cards with Kevin Spacey.

Now it is looking to expand its production slate with new documentaries and stand-up shows, company chiefs Reed Hastings and David Wells said.

‘Netflix has become a big destination for fans of these much loved and often under-distributed genres,’ they wrote in a letter to shareholders. ‘Over the last six months, our move into original programming has begun to redefine Netflix in the eyes of consumers.’

The US company already boasts several stand-up shows in its catalogue for both American and British subscribers. And the relatively low cost of filming a stand-up show is likely to be appealing.

It is yet another model for the distribution of shows, following the method followed by Louis CK of offering fans a direct download for a few pounds.

The company’s share price fell yesterday with the announcement that for the quarter that ended June 31, its revenue was $1.069 billion, up year-on-year, but falling short of Wall Street's expectations of $1.072 billion.

Published: 24 Jul 2013