Snapchat has struck a deal with Vice to launch several original shows exclusively within its Discover section, which touts curated content from top digital publishers.
Hungry Hearts With Action Bronson, an eight-episode dating series hosted by the rapper and chef — who also headlines two series on Vice’s TV channel, Viceland — will be the first project to bow as part of the pact in English-speaking countries later this year, according to Variety. Developed by Viceland, Hungry Hearts will see Bronson serving as a matchmaker, arranging dinner dates and then predicting whether the couples will last.
Vice was a launch partner for Snapchat Discover back in 2015, and the platform continues to add more original shows within the hub, per Variety, including its self-produced, Peter Hamby-starring political series Good Luck America. Snapchat also features several original companion series produced alongside NBC, ABC, and BBC for The Voice, The Bachelor, and Planet Earth II, respectively. Snapchat has also partnered with A+E on an original series called Second Chances, which brings exes face-to-face and is set to premiere next month.
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But while increasing original content output is a top a priority for Snapchat, cultivating relationships with influencers may not necessarily be top of mind. According to reports, creators are frustrated with the company’s apathy, and have been defecting in favor of competing services like YouTube and Instagram. Snapchat says its focus is on fostering engagement between friends and family as opposed to providing a platform for influencers.
