This doesn't reflect well...

The next series of Charlie Brooker’s Black Mirror will premiere on Netflix in the UK, after Channel 4 lost the rights.

The reported $40million deal for the 12 new episodes has sparked a bitter row between programme-makers Endemol Shine and the terrestrial broadcaster.

Channel 4 believes it should have been given favourable terms since it took a risk on the show in the first place, while the producers say C4 have passed up the chance to recommission the series – claims the broadcaster denies.

In a strongly worded statement, Channel 4 chief creative officer Jay Hunt said: 'Black Mirror couldn’t be a more Channel 4 show.

'We grew it from a dangerous idea to a brand that resonated globally. Of course it’s disappointing that the first broadcast window in the UK is then sold to the highest bidder, ignoring the risk a publicly owned channel like 4 took backing it.'

MediaGuardian reports that Channel 4 made a 'serious and significant offer' for the rights to premiere the new episodes in the UK, but was outbid by the on-demand service, which had already commissioned the new series for the rest of the world.

Endemol Shine, which is co-owned by Rupert Murdoch's 21st Century Fox, said: 'It is unfortunate that having explored every avenue with Channel 4 an agreement was not able to be reached.

'Channel 4 have had the opportunity to recommission since 2013, and passed on this and subsequent co-production options put to them.'

Brooker has previously described Netflix as 'the most fitting platform imaginable' for his series.

Published: 29 Mar 2016