EXCLUSIVE: AMC+ has landed U.S. rights to BBC crime drama This City is Ours. The deal is one of a number distributor Sony Pictures Television has struck ahead of its London TV Screenings showcase today in the UK capital. Since its launch at the Screenings last year, a number of other deals have clos
February 26, 2026
AMC+ has acquired the rights to broadcast the BBC’s gripping crime series “This City Is Ours” in the United States. Produced by Sony Pictures Television and created by Stephen Butchard, the series has captivated audiences with its intricate portrayal of crime and family dynamics. The acquisition is part of a wider strategy by Sony to distribute the series to various international platforms, demonstrating its global appeal.
### Expanding Global Reach
“This City Is Ours” has already made significant inroads across international markets. Since its debut at the London TV Screenings, the series has been picked up by major networks in countries including Australia, Canada, Germany, and more. The signing with AMC+ marks a significant step in its global distribution, bringing the series to American audiences. Other notable acquisitions include platforms such as Stan in Australia, Sky in New Zealand, and Bell Media in Canada, showcasing the series’ broad appeal and the growing demand for high-quality British drama.
### Plot and Cast Insights
Set in the gritty backdrop of Liverpool, “This City Is Ours” delves into the life of crime lord Ronnie Phelan, portrayed by Sean Bean. The narrative explores Ronnie’s struggle to retire from a life of crime, only to find himself ensnared in a power tussle between his trusted lieutenant Michael Kavanagh (James Nelson-Joyce) and his own son Jamie (Jack McMullen). The series has been praised for its compelling storyline and strong performances, with an ensemble cast that includes Hannah Onslow, Darci Shaw, Julie Graham, and Laura Aikman.
The drama has resonated deeply with viewers, becoming the BBC’s most-watched new drama in 2025, drawing an impressive average of 5.8 million viewers. The show’s premiere episode alone attracted over 7.8 million viewers, indicative of its strong narrative pull and audience engagement. Following its success, the series has been renewed for a second season, with filming currently underway in locations across Liverpool and Spain.
### Industry Impact and Future Prospects
The acquisition of “This City Is Ours” by AMC+ underscores the platform’s commitment to delivering compelling content to its subscribers. According to Jason Spivak, Co-President of Distribution & Networks at Sony Pictures Television, the series’ entry into the U.S. market highlights its universal themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal, which continue to captivate audiences worldwide. As the London TV Screenings showcase continues, industry insiders anticipate more strategic deals that will further enhance the series’ international footprint.
With its gripping storyline and strong viewer engagement, “This City Is Ours” is set to become a staple in crime drama viewing, drawing in audiences with its potent mix of family dynamics and criminal intrigue. As the series continues to expand its global presence, it is poised to solidify its status as a must-watch drama in the genre.
