When you think of streaming companies with original content, you tend to think of Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and Yahoo. But what about YouTube; the video hosting site that is providing a home for millions of hours of content every day?
In the last few years, the popular video service has developed its own culture, with its own celebrities and memes.
Hollywood sometimes recognizes the popularity of certain creators and offers them the chance to make a film. For example, YouTube creator Lucas Cruikshank received a multi-film deal about his character Fred Figglehorn. The films were shown on Nickelodeon, and got a direct-to-DVD release. Vlogger Grace Helbig recently received a book deal and a talk show on E!.
But now, YouTube is looking to offer its creators their own fully-funded television programs.
"Faced with stiffening demand for its home-grown stars from online competitors and traditional media, YouTube said it will back original series by four of its best-known creators, including the Fine Brothers, Prank vs. Prank, Joey Graceffa and SMOSH. The Google subsidiary will also partner with DreamWorks Animation-owned AwesomenessTV to create "several" films featuring YouTube stars over the next two years," Deadline reported.
While YouTube has already tried to invest in its creators and help them make bigger and better projects, this is the first time it has invested in longer-form content.
The new shows and films will include "a satirical look at singing-competition shows" written by The Fine Brothers, a celebrity-centered prank show, a "murder-mystery reality series" starring vlogger and actor Graceffa, and a comedy set in a theme restaurant that's written by comedy duo SMOSH.
YouTube plans on working with Dreamwork's Multi-Channel Network AwesomenessTV to provide production value.
