The mini-series format has already gained popularity. Now TikTok is expanding its content strategy and starting the production of its own mini-dramas. According to sources, the platform has already announced a casting call for actors for its first project, which will be executed in a vertical series format.
This refers to a short multi-episode story, stylistically close to a "soap opera," but adapted for mobile screens and fast user scenarios. This format is rapidly gaining popularity within the app and is gradually turning into an independent segment of the industry.
Interest in this direction is confirmed by the company's strategic steps: at the end of last year, TikTok filed an application to register the TikTok Drama brand, and in early 2026, it launched a separate feed entirely dedicated to mini-dramas. Currently, it predominantly features partner projects and content created using artificial intelligence.
The format has already proven its effectiveness in the Chinese market, where short dramatic series gather millions of views. The trend is now actively scaling to Western audiences, and analysts predict segment growth to $1.4 billion by the end of 2026.
Against this backdrop, major industry players, including Netflix and Disney, may also show interest in the format. However, TikTok is the first to bet on its own production, shaping a new model for consuming series.
