HBO Max Originals Chief Eyes International Cop, Medical, and Legal Dramas to Reproduce The Pitt’s Win Streak
HBO Max is aiming to capitalize on the unexpected triumph of the five-time Emmy-winning procedural The Pitt by scouting for new cop, medical, and legal series from around the world.
Sarah Aubrey, who oversees the platform’s originals, suggested that traditional procedurals could resonate in some of HBO Max’s newer European markets as the service expands there. She quipped to Content London attendees, “You folks in Britain order six-episode runs? That still blows my mind.”
She also indicated a potential return to classic TV formats in the medical, legal, and police genres, noting that audiences continue to respond to those setups. By combining the streaming-era emphasis on strong character writing with the reliability of genre conventions, she believes these formats could deliver substantial success.
Aubrey cited The Pitt as a benchmark, highlighting its five Emmy wins over pricier competition and noting that a second season is on the horizon. She expressed the hope that international projects could mirror that success through longer episode orders.
Beyond The Pitt, Aubrey highlighted other HBO Max successes from around the world that are outperforming some of HBO’s flagship tentpoles. She pointed to Furia in Spain, which has been recommissioned, as well as The Prince in Turkey and The Eastern Gate in Poland.
When it comes to microdrama, Aubrey indicated HBO Max has no immediate plans to push into that space, even though the format is currently popular. The team, she explained, already has a full plate with core initiatives, though she remains curious about the growing microdrama segment.
Aubrey is in London for the week and will participate in a high-profile HBO showcase tonight before visiting the Harry Potter set the following day. She praised the franchise as a faithful adaptation of the books, noting that it was crafted by British creators and staffed by some of the country’s finest talent.
Earlier today, HBO Max announced launch dates for Germany and Italy, with chief Casey Bloys set to speak at the showcase that evening. The service is slated to arrive in those markets on January 13, though there was no confirmation yet on timing for the UK launch.
Aubrey emphasized that the team is eager to expand HBO Max’s global footprint and continue growing its international slate.
