Apple aims to launch original content TV shows by March 2019: Report

Apple is planning to launch its new original programming initiative as soon as March 2019.

Citing producers and entertainment executives, a report by The New York Times points out the original content group will comprise of approximately 40 staff spanning adult dramas, children’s TV, Latin America and European content. Further, the company is said to be building a 128,000-square-foot headquarters for its new entertainment division in Culver City, California.

Apple has already signed Ms Witherspoon and Ms Aniston to star in a series about a morning TV show. Additionally, it also struck a deal for a series with Mr Chazelle, the director of “La La Land,” who will write and direct every episode of a new series. The company also has plans to reboot Spielberg’s “Amazing Stories” and has signed Ronald D. Moore, the producer of “Battlestar Galactica” and “Outlander,” for a new space drama. 

The report also points out that Apple also has deals in place for an animated series from the creator of Fox’s “Bob’s Burgers”; a comedy starring Ms Wiig; a drama starring Ms. Spencer; and a documentary series about lavish homes from Matt Tyrnauer, who made the fashion documentary “Valentino: The Last Emperor.”

Last year, reports suggested that Apple would invest $1 billion to acquire and produce the TV shows over the year. However, it is now believed that the company will easily surpass this number and has also outbid Netflix in negotiations for some shows as well. It has also exceeded Facebook's and YouTube's original content budget in the past few months.