Here’s a bold statement: the future of scripted television is about to get a whole lot riskier—and more exciting. Amy Powell, president of Vice Studios, is not here to play it safe. Speaking at the Content London industry event, Powell revealed her vision for transforming Vice into a “fully-fledged studio” that thrives on bold, boundary-pushing storytelling. But here’s where it gets controversial: she’s eyeing a global expansion of the Gangs of London franchise, imagining spin-offs like Gangs of Miami or even Gangs of Johannesburg. Is this a genius move to rival Marvel’s IP strategy, or a risky gamble? And this is the part most people miss: Powell sees gangs as a universal form of family, making the concept ripe for reinvention across cultures. Could this approach redefine how we think about crime dramas?
Powell, who joined Vice Studios six months ago after stints at Amazon and Paramount Television, brings a wealth of experience with scripted hits like Atomic and Gangs of London. Her passion for “showing a world from the inside out” is evident in her admiration for shows like Industry, Euphoria, and Succession. But what does this mean for Vice’s future? With a $500 million production facility backed by Western Alliance Bank and Fortress Investment Group, Powell plans to expand her team’s scripted output to eight series next year.
Here’s the kicker: Powell isn’t just thinking local—she’s thinking global. When asked about African content, she hinted at the possibility of a Gangs of series set in South Africa. Is this cultural appropriation, or a bold step toward diverse storytelling? The debate is sure to spark opinions.
As Vice Studios gears up for this ambitious era, one question lingers: Can they pull off a Marvel-level franchise while staying true to their risk-taking roots? Let’s discuss—do you think expanding Gangs of London globally is a stroke of genius or a recipe for overreach? Share your thoughts below!
