The BBC has announced it will no longer license TV content to Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
This includes a request not to air the remaining episodes of Sir David Attenborough’s new documentary series The Green Planet and the Russian version of Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing With The Stars, even though the rights have already been sold.
A spokesperson for the BBC said: “The BBC’s executive team were meeting today and they have decided to stop all content licensing to Russian customers.”
UK broadcaster ITV has also announced it will not be working with Russian clients following the attack on Ukraine by Russian forces.
A spokesperson said: “We have made the decision to stop new sales to Russian clients as we do not believe it appropriate to be doing business with them at this time.”
Pact — the UK’s largest trade association for independent producers — has also called upon its members to stop all work with Russia.
Its members include World Productions, creators of Line of Duty and Vigil, and Sherlock producers Hartswood Films.
A spokesperson said: “Pact calls for a cessation of hostilities in Ukraine and for a resolution of conflict by diplomatic means respecting the rule of law and the rights of the Ukrainian people.
Read More: BBC stops all content licensing in Russia including David Attenborough’s Green Planet
