Netflix Inc. wants to stream live versions of the popular YouTube talk show Hotsaid people familiar with the matter, adding to the program that will soon include NFL games and wrestling.
The company is in talks with BuzzFeed Inc., the owner of the series in which celebrities eat increasingly spicier chicken wings while chatting with host Sean Evans. The two sides hope to reach a deal this month, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the talks could still fall apart.
In the scenario discussed, Evans would host several live episodes of Hot created specifically for Netflix. The show is one of the most popular shows on YouTube. The average episode attracts a few million viewers, while the most popular episodes reach tens of millions. Recent episodes have featured Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Conan O’Brien and Ariana Grande.
Netflix has experimented with live programming in recent years, hosting a golf match, a tennis show and a hot dog eating contest. Viewership for most of these programs was low, but they allowed the company to test its technology as it prepares to offer bigger events like two NFL games on Christmas Day and World Wrestling Entertainment.
Netflix struggled to produce a successful talk show for on-demand streaming—the company ordered and canceled shows by Chelsea Handler and the late Norm Macdonald.
Talk shows are historically relevant and relate to the news of the day, meaning ratings drop rapidly as episodes get older. But earlier this year, the company had some success with a short series of live shows hosted by comedian John Mulaney. It also ordered a second season of a live cooking show featuring chef David Chang cooking for celebrities.
Hot is a popular show among brands and in live entertainment and would create additional revenue opportunities for Netflix, which is looking to grow its advertising business.
