ITV Extends Movie Rights Deal Into 2006
ITV has announced the extension of its exclusive multi-year licensing agreement for the terrestrial television rights to NBC Universal’s feature films and television series in the UK.
The deal will ensure ITV has exclusive terrestrial access to NBC Universal’s movies produced between 2004 and 2006. In addition, the agreement includes titles from NBC Universal’s feature film and television libraries, as well as upcoming television series beginning with the 2005 season.
Amongst the major new titles made available to ITV include Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, Thunderbirds and the yet to be released King Kong. ITV will also be given access to NBC’s feature film library, made up of more than 4000 titles, including such highlights as Gladiator, The Mummy, Notting Hill, and Bridget Jones’s Diary.
Commenting on the extended broadcast rights deal, ITV’s controller of acquisitions, Jeremy Boulton, said: “We look forward to continuing our relationship with NBC Universal. Their incredible slate of titles means that ITV can continue to provide its viewers with the fantastic movies and box office successes over the coming years.”
Nigel Pickard, director of programmes for ITV added: “Films form a key part of the ITV schedules in both peak and off-peak hours and we are delighted to build upon the hugely successful relationship we have with NBC Universal.”
The extended agreement sees ITV building its commitment to movie content, following a deal struck between ITV Sales and mobile phone manufacturer Motorola earlier this month to provide sponsorship for all films on ITV1 in 2005. The extended sponsorship agreement followed the success of a previous deal which drove purchase consideration amongst viewers up by a massive 65%, ITV claim (see Motorola Signs For Extended ITV Movies Sponsorship).
ITV: 020 7843 8000 www.itv.com
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