Money Heist: Netflix only paid $2 to buy 'La Casa de Papel'? Find out why

Written By DNA Web Team | Updated: Sep 08, 2021, 09:44 PM IST

File Photo

'Money Heist' was created as 'La Casa de Papel' by Alex Pina and was initially aired in 2017 on the Spanish channel Antena 3.

Who hasn't heard about 'Money Heist'? The popular TV show is one of the most successful programs on Netflix from the recent past. The TV show was not only 2018's most-watched non-English-language series, it is also one of the most-watched series overall on the streaming platform. 

So, in celebration of the launch of the recently released 5th season of 'Money Heist', let us share an anecdote about how much Netflix actually paid for the acclaimed series.

The rich history behind the enigma that is 'Money Heist' 

The drama series was created as 'La Casa de Papel' by Alex Pina and was initially aired in 2017 on the Spanish channel Antena 3. The show had started well but soon saw a loss in viewers and eventually the revenues. 

How 'Money Heist' got its name 

During the loss in revenue and viewership, Netflix came into the picture and bought 'La Casa de Papel'. The series was then recut into 22 episodes of 50 minutes and was renamed, keeping in mind the majority of English-speaking viewers, to 'Money Heist'. The first part of the series was released on December 20, 2017, and looking at its growing popularity, Netflix increased the budget and commissioned 16 more episodes. 

Do you wonder how much Netflix paid to buy 'La Casa de Papel'? According to UK's Express website, the streaming platform only paid two dollars. The news was reportedly also confirmed by Andy Harries, head of Left Bank Pictures, during a Q&A with BAFTA.

What is the story of 'Money Heist'?

'Money Heist' is a story that revolves around a mysterious man who hires a group of eight people, who use code names of cities, to enter the Royal Mint of Spain and step out with €984 million. The series follows their story and how they handle the police and hostages after which they move on to the next one.