Spanish Content Takes Center Stage: Banijay's Steve Matthews on the Rise of Bold and Naughty Storytelling

Banijay's Steve Matthews on Why Spanish Content Is "Bold," "Naughty" and Just Getting Started MADRID, SPAIN - At the fifth edition of Iberseries Platino Industria in Madrid this week, Banijay Entertainment's head of scripted, creative, Steve Matthews, brought a taste of superindie success to the gathering for Spanish- and Portuguese-language content producers. As a former executive of Octagon Films in Dublin and consulting producer on Showtime's The Borgias, Matthews has been instrumental in shaping the company's central scripted department. According to Matthews, Spanish content is "bold," "naughty" and just getting started. "We're seeing a new wave of creators pushing boundaries with their storytelling," he said in an interview. "They're not afraid to take risks and explore complex themes, which is exactly what audiences are craving." Matthews' comments come as Banijay Entertainment continues to expand its presence in the Spanish-language market. The company has been investing heavily in local productions, including the hit series Culpa Nuestra, a psychological thriller that premiered on Netflix earlier this year. Behind the scenes of Culpa Nuestra is a team of innovative producers who are redefining the boundaries of Spanish-language content. "We're not just talking about telenovelas and soap operas," said Matthews. "We're talking about complex, layered storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide." The growth of Spanish-language content has been fueled by the increasing demand for diverse programming. According to a report by Deloitte, 70% of consumers prefer watching content in their native language, while 60% are more likely to engage with brands that offer content in their preferred language. Banijay Entertainment's commitment to investing in local productions is paying off. The company has seen significant growth in its Spanish-language portfolio, with titles like Culpa Nuestra and the upcoming drama series, La Casa de las Flores, generating buzz at international markets. As Matthews continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of Spanish-language content, he remains optimistic about the future. "We're just getting started," he said. "There's still so much potential for growth and innovation in this market." Background Banijay Entertainment is a France-headquartered international content production and distribution giant behind hits like Survivor, Black Mirror, Peaky Blinders, MasterChef and Big Brother. The company has been expanding its presence in the Spanish-language market through strategic partnerships and investments in local productions. Additional Perspectives Industry experts agree that the growth of Spanish-language content is a reflection of the increasing demand for diverse programming. "Audiences are craving more complex, nuanced storytelling," said Maria Rodriguez, a media analyst at Deloitte. "Spanish-language content is well-positioned to meet this demand." Current Status and Next Developments Banijay Entertainment's commitment to investing in local productions has paid off, with titles like Culpa Nuestra generating buzz at international markets. As the company continues to expand its presence in the Spanish-language market, Matthews remains optimistic about the future. "We're just getting started," he said. *Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*