Channel 4 Secures UK TV Rights To The Osbournes
Channel 4 has secured the UK terrestrial TV rights to hit US fly-on-the-wall documentary The Osbournes in a deal thought to be worth millions of pounds.
The broadcaster acquired the rights to both series one and series two of the show, which is based around the life of UK rock star Ozzy Osbourne and his family, following a fierce bidding war against ITV and Channel 5.
Commenting on the acquisition of the show, which will air in the autumn, Danielle Lux, Channel 4 head of entertainment and comedy, said: “I am delighted that we’ve brought The Osbournes to Channel 4 and look forward to their being part of the Channel 4 family.”
The Osbournes has already proved a massive hit in the US and the acquisition represents a significant win for Channel 4, which acquired the terrestrial TV rights to The Simpsons earlier in the year (see Channel 4 Secures Simpsons TV Rights).
MTV was forced to delay the UK premier of the show last month due to unresolved contractual negotiations between the Osbourne family over rights to a second series (see MTV Delays UK Debut Of The Osbournes).
Channel Four: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com
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