The Netflix romantic comedy “XO, Kitty” is returning for a second season, becoming the streaming service’s first television series based on an original Netflix film, the “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” film trilogy.
The “Bridgerton” Regency-era drama series on Netflix has also spawned a spin-off, the “Queen Charlotte” prequel, which has become one of the platform’s most popular series since its May premiere.
The “To All the Boys” and “Bridgerton” franchises reflect Netflix’s goal of expanding brands to create content across film, television, games, and consumer products with a more diverse cast.
“XO, Kitty” features a Korean protagonist, whereas “Queen Charlotte” stars an African-American actor in the title role.
Forever 21 and Japanese entertainment firm Sanrio collaborate on the “XO, Kitty” apparel collection.
As Netflix’s development has slowed, the service has begun cultivating franchises in an effort to generate more revenue from original programming.
The 2016 science fiction series “Stranger Things” was the company’s first successful entertainment franchise, with merchandise, spin-off series, and stage play plans.
“Bridgerton,” an adaptation of a novel series by Julia Quinn, has inspired a merchandise line with tea retailer Republic of Tea, which includes bridal products.
A book written by Quinn and the show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes, that was inspired by the Queen Charlotte character made the New York Times bestseller list.
Also available on Netflix are live immersive experiences such as “The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience.” The traveling pop-up exhibition allows viewers to experience the Regency London depicted in the series.
The “XO, Kitty” apparel line is a collaboration between Japanese entertainment company Sanrio and American fashion retailer Forever 21.
