Viaplay has announced its first two scripted Dutch Original productions, entitled Something Stupid and The Guilty. The streaming service, which is set to launch today in the Netherlands, disclosed that “original Dutch, Nordic and international storytelling will be a cornerstone of Viaplay’s offering in its newest market, along with premium live sports, kids’ content, and Hollywood films and series”. The streaming services STARZPLAY and hayu will be also included in a regular subscription plan.

Something Stupid has been created by bestselling novelist and journalist Saskia Noort, known as “The Dutch Queen of Suspense”, with over 3 million books sold. The project, a dark comedy produced by Levitate Film, follows three women seeking revenge on the man who betrayed them, and explores the themes of equality and exploitation in the TV industry. Noort commented: “I’m super-excited to be writing my first original series for Viaplay. And it’s my first dark comedy as well – what an honour to get this chance. I won’t disappoint you!”

Meanwhile, the crime-drama The Guilty will centre on a mother who discovers that her teenage son has committed murder – and goes to extreme lengths to keep him out of prison. Penned by Liesbeth Strik, the series is being staged by Ginger Fiction, the new scripted label of Vincent TV Producties. Speaking about her involvement in the project, Strik said: “I’m very excited to be making The Guilty for Viaplay. It will be a psychological thriller about parenting – a personal story about a mother’s struggle that I’m convinced will appeal to a broad audience.”

Both series are also being produced by Kennard Bos for Viaplay, with on-screen talents and premiere dates to be announced in due course.

Commenting on its two first Dutch Original productions and the group’s future ambitions, Filippa Wallestam, NENT Group’s chief content officer, said: “Viaplay has rapidly become a major player in international drama, and we have lofty ambitions for the Netherlands. As in our Nordic markets, we will invest in the local creative industry and partner with the hottest talents while helping to develop new voices. And as our first two Dutch Viaplay Originals show, we will tell stories that are compelling, thought-provoking and, above all, unique.”