Disney+ is actively growing its presence in the Canadian market by expanding its local production leadership. The streamer has hired Mélanie Lê Phan, a former executive from the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), to serve as senior manager of international content for Disney+ Canada.

Strengthening the local slate

Lê Phan will be based in Toronto, working alongside director of development Paige Murray. Her primary focus will be sourcing new projects and assisting in the creation of a broader Canadian strategy for both scripted and unscripted originals. This move follows Murray's own transition from the CBC to Disney+ approximately 10 months ago.

The expansion comes as the platform begins to establish a footprint for homegrown stories. Recent local commissions include:

  • Knighted: An eight-part scripted comedy series exploring a missing person case through a documentary style.
  • I’m Not Coming Back: A three-part crime docuseries regarding a 2019 manhunt in British Columbia.

Why is Disney+ Canada investing locally?

This hiring trend aligns with a larger shift in the Canadian media landscape. As traditional linear television viewership declines, streaming services are increasingly looking to capture audiences through localized storytelling. By bringing in talent with deep roots in Canadian broadcasting, Disney+ aims to better navigate the regional market.

Beyond staffing, the company is also enhancing accessibility through new partnerships. Disney+ has entered a deal with Bell Media to offer a streaming bundle that includes Crave and TSN. This allows subscribers to access a wide range of content, from Disney and Marvel titles to HBO series and live sports like the NFL and NHL, all within a single package.

FAQ

What will Mélanie Lê Phan's role involve?

She will work to grow the Canadian slate of original content by finding and shaping new scripted and unscripted projects.

How is Disney+ becoming more accessible in Canada?

Disney+ is launching a new bundle with Bell Media that combines the service with Crave and TSN for subscribers.