The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has secured the rights to broadcast the acclaimed Apple TV+ comedy series Trying across its traditional television channels and the BBC iPlayer streaming service. This agreement will make the first three seasons of the show accessible to audiences in the United Kingdom at no cost, with the inaugural season set to premiere on September 8, 2025.
Trying features Rafe Spall and Esther Smith as a couple navigating the complexities of adoption after facing challenges with natural conception. The series has been lauded for its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters, establishing itself as the longest-running sitcom on Apple TV+.
Apple is preparing to release the fifth season of Trying on its subscription-based Apple TV+ service. The BBC holds an option to acquire the rights to subsequent seasons, including the fourth and beyond, as reported by Deadline.
This collaboration is noteworthy as it represents a strategic move for both entities. For the BBC, it introduces a successful series from a premium streaming platform into its free-to-air lineup, enriching its content offerings. For Apple, providing the initial seasons on a widely accessible platform like the BBC serves as a promotional tool, potentially enticing viewers to subscribe to Apple TV+ for the latest episodes.
The Apple TV+ service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming sticks, ensuring broad accessibility. Recently, Apple increased the monthly subscription fee for U.S. customers from $9.99 to $12.99, though this adjustment has not yet impacted the Apple One bundle pricing.
This partnership follows a similar arrangement earlier in 2025, where ITVX acquired the rights to the Apple TV+ thriller Suspicion. However, Suspicion was an Apple commission based on the Israeli series False Flag, whereas Trying is an original Apple production.
The BBC’s acquisition of Trying underscores its commitment to diversifying its programming by incorporating successful content from various platforms, thereby enhancing the viewing experience for its audience.
