Apple TV Plus signs content deal with the man who brought you Game of Thrones

A major statement of intent by the streaming service

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Apple TV Plus, the streaming service from the iPhone makers that’s home to exclusive shows such as Jason Momoa’s See and kids' favorite Snoopy in Space, has clinched a deal with a top US TV executive to develop content for the platform.

The company has secured a five-year deal with former HBO chief Richard Plepler and his production company Eden Productions to make movies, documentaries and TV shows forAppleTV Plus.

Plepler led HBO through a golden age of television during which the company produced the likes of Game of Thrones and The Sopranos – arguably the two key prestige shows of the last 20 years which helped inspire the quality TV boom that’s contributed to the rise of streaming – developed during his 28-year stint at the company.

A show of confidence

Other than the broad note on content Plepler’s team will develop, there are no details as to what Eden Productions will be working on. It’s worth noting that Plepler isn’t necessarily a creative force, but he has a proven track record of attracting major show-running talent.

And that’s likely what Apple is looking for here. Its launch catalogue of shows certainly wasn’t lacking in big-name stars, but there were relatively few long-term deals signed to develop content which Apple could potentially use to build a consistent audience. A near-complete deal with JJ Abrams, he ofStar Warssequel fame, ended up being lost to WarnerMedia.

Plepler’s signing is a statement of intent as to Apple’s ability to compete with the top names in TV programming and streaming – expect to start hearing details of new shows and movies aimed at tempting you into yet another streaming subscription.ViaVariety

Get the best Black Friday deals direct to your inbox, plus news, reviews, and more.

Sign up to be the first to know about unmissable Black Friday deals on top tech, plus get all your favorite TechRadar content.

Gerald is Editor-in-Chief of iMore.com. Previously he was the Executive Editor for TechRadar, taking care of the site’s home cinema, gaming, smart home, entertainment and audio output. He loves gaming, but don’t expect him to play with you unless your console is hooked up to a 4K HDR screen and a 7.1 surround system. Before TechRadar, Gerald was Editor of Gizmodo UK. He is also the author of ‘Get Technology: Upgrade Your Future’, published by Aurum Press.

I’m canceling Prime Video for Apple TV Plus this month – here are 5 reasons why

4 new Apple TV Plus movies and shows I’m excited to stream in November

England vs Australia live stream: how to watch 2024 rugby union Autumn International online from anywhere