‘The Winter King’ Finally Coming To ITVX - Is It Too Late?

The British public was eagerly awaiting its arrival Winter King on ITVX, the streaming platform from ITV – and finally coming in December.

Set in 5th century Britain, this historical fantasy series follows the rise of Arthur Pendragon.

However, despite it being a big launch for ITVX, there’s a big twist: the entire series has already been broadcast in the US.

This late release raises questions about the effectiveness of ITVX’s strategy: in this day and age, when every major show is talked about endlessly on social media, is it wise to release a major show after Americans (and social media) have already watched it? (And discuss it)?

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The world of “The Winter King”

Its events take place in the turbulent fifth century, Winter King The TV series offers a gritty and realistic look at the Arthurian legends.

Based on Bernard Cornwell Warlord Records Novels, the series reimagines Arthurian legends in post-Roman Dark Age Britain.

championship Ian de Caesteker (Shield agents., Blurrs) As Arthur Pendragon, the series depicts him not as a destined king, but rather as the illegitimate son of an exiled warlord.

The show is grounded in historical realism, focusing on the political and social dynamics of the time.

The narrative is viewed largely through the eyes of Derfel, a Saxon warrior he portrays Stuart CampbellIt provides a nuanced look at the characters, especially in its depiction of Arthur’s complex relationship with his father, King Uther (Eddie Marsan), and the priestess Nemo (Eli James).

The cast also includes notable names such as Nathaniel Martello White, Daniel Ingsand Simone Merrells, promising high-quality production.

Winter King It was very well received in the US, as evidenced by its impressive rating of 82% Rotten tomatoes (As of this writing).

Critics praised its unique approach to the famous legend, its compelling story, and impressive cast.

Delayed gratification or missed opportunity?

Winter King It is scheduled to premiere in the UK on ITVX on ITVX December 21, 2023with the first five episodes.

The remaining five episodes will follow a week later December 27th.

This release schedule may have been cause for celebration, but the fact that the series has already been available in the US for months (it aired between August and November in the US) overshadows its UK premiere.

In an age where spoilers flood social media and discussion forums within hours of a show’s release, delaying the UK premiere could dampen excitement for British viewers.

The Winter King on Horse ITVX — The Winter King (Image: ITVX0

Unfortunately, UK audiences are already used to some shows arriving late (if at all) – with The walking dead Recent spin-offsfor example, being an example of this.

However, this usually happens with American shows. Winter Kingalthough co-produced with MGM, is not only a very British show – it was introduced as one of ITVX’s flagship shows even before the service launched.

So, showing it on our screens months after it finished airing anywhere else in the world feels a bit dated.

Moreover, the staggered release on ITVX (5 episodes first, then 5 more), while providing a semblance of anticipation, is also a disappointing decision, in a world where binge-watching has become the new normal (and again – in a world where… All 10 episodes have already aired.)

The King of Winter ITVX Ian de Caestecker — (Image: ITVX)

It is still unknown at this stage if – and when – Winter King It will be broadcast on ITV’s linear channels. For now, it will be an exclusive show on ITVX.

What is ITVX?

ITVX, the new kid on the UK streaming blockIt launched one year ago, in December 2022. The service, which replaces the ITV Hub app, is free but comes with ads.

It aims to compete with major players such as Netflix and Disney+. At launch, ITVX launched over 10,000 hours of on-demand content, including 35 flagship shows, over 200 series and over 250 movies, and now shows and movies are being added every month.

ITVX TV Model Categories

ITVX also offers a Premium tier for £5.99 per month or £59.99 per year. The premium subscription not only removes ads but also gives users access To the BritBox librarypacked with over 4,000 hours of classic British content, plus selections from Shows the channel studio.

ITVX is available on most… Streaming devices and smart TVs sold in the UK.

However, there is a long list of devices that don’t support ITV’s live streaming app – and likely won’t support it at all – from popular shows Freeview boxes like Humax FVP-5000t, to Prey boxes Like the Humax HP 1000S, And the elderly Samsung smart TVs And other manufacturers.