The TV series “Tehran” returns to Apple TV next week even though production wrapped back in 2023. What caused the postponement of this critically acclaimed drama depicting dueling espionage efforts between Israel and Iran was never specified by the streaming service. But sensitivities regarding the real-life battles that have ravaged the Middle East are suspected of being a factor in the delayed return of “Tehran,” which is co-produced by Israeli public broadcaster Kan 11.
But that’s far from the only sign of disruption in Israel’s entertainment business these days. And while the struggles currently gripping the country’s film and TV industries aren’t entirely attributable to the pall the Netanyahu administration has cast over just about anything with Israeli or even Jewish connections, it’s an issue to be sure.
The cloud of controversy that has enveloped Israel since Oct. 7, 2023 was a much-discussed topic at this year’s inaugural Jerusalem Sessions event, held last month in the country’s capital city. Conversation touched on a chilling effect being felt in the marketplace of an important industry export: local TV shows into other global territories.
On the latest episode of the Variety podcast “Strictly Business,” hear from some of the industry pros who came to Jerusalem Sessions from the U.S., Europe and the host country to share their insights.
The Israeli TV industry has always prided itself for punching far above its weight in its ability to sell shows beyond its borders. First there was success in formats adapted to other languages in other countries, like the HBO series “In Treatment” or Showtime’s “Homeland” and “Your Honor.” More recently, Israel demonstrated its ability to capitalize on the increasingly global market for content opened up by the explosion of streaming services. TV shows like “Fauda” and “Shtisel” that were never intended to play outside of Hebrew-speaking market found second and third lives in other countries in subtitled versions.
But the Israelis say this business is not as strong as it used to be, Productions with an Israeli provenance are feeling the pain regardless of whether the content is remotely controversial or even pertinent to the war. Plus there are other challenges: the Israeli industry may not have any bigger problem than the one its own government represents. The Israeli broadcaster KAN faces an existential threat of its own under fire from the Netanyahu administration. And the Israeli film world is no less beleaguered, with the government threatening to withdraw crucial funding sources when movies that dare to stray from the party line are recognized.
“Strictly Business” is Variety’s weekly podcast featuring conversations with industry leaders about the business of media and entertainment. (Please click here to subscribe to our free newsletter.) New episodes debut every Wednesday and can be downloaded at Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Play, SoundCloud and more.
(Pictured: Apple TV’s “Tehran.”)