We already knew that Sky's action thriller
Strike Back (based on the novel by ex-SAS soldier Chris Ryan, I reviewed its premiere
here) is returning for a second series, but
The Independent are reporting that HBO will be co-producing with Left Bank Pictures on the new 10-part run. This deal is unrelated to Sky's acquisition of HBO's programming for £150m over five years, but the two broadcasters are evidently getting close. The BBC previously co-produced Rome, Extras and The Special Relationship with HBO, but this is the first production partnership they've had with Sky. It also suggests that Strike Back will be broadcast on HBO soon. Elaine Pyke, Sky's Head of Drama:
"I really feel that this ambitious co-production highlights the importance of creating compelling original drama for our customers."
Andy Harries, executive-producer at Left Bank Pictures:
"Strike Back was conceived as a high octane action adventure with the scale and impact of a US series, and to have HBO/Cinemax on board will turn this ambition into reality.
What do you make of this news? It sounds like a great partnership to me, as Strike Back will certainly benefit from an increased budget (not that the original three-part run looked especially cheap.) If HBO are able to show the existing feature-length episodes, they may also enjoy marketing the presence of Andrew Lincoln, star of rival AMC's The Walking Dead.