Warner Bros. Strikes U.K. Deal with NBCU Global Networks

LONDON: A new first-run programming deal announced between NBC Universal Global Networks and Warner Bros. International Television Distribution (WBITD) for the U.K. covers three new series from the 2009-10 season: V, Human Target and Eastwick.

The agreement, which brings the shows to the SCI FI and Hallmark channels in the U.K., also covers the rights to season one of The CW hit Smallville. Hallmark has the U.K. first-run pay-TV rights to Eastwick, while SCI will air V, Human Target and Smallville. “This important deal is evidence of a step change in our investment in new content," said Laurence Dawkin-Jones, managing director for the U.K. at NBC Universal Global Networks. "These are some of the most talked-about shows to come out of the L.A. Screenings this year and are a perfect fit with our channels.”

Jeffrey R. Schlesinger, the president of Warner Bros. International Television, added: “This deal is significant not only because we are licensing three of our new shows to one client, but also because it is a basic multichannel operator that has stepped up to outbid all of the free terrestrial networks to acquire the first-window rights to these three high-profile programs. This is a bold move for NBCU, and we are pleased to support their initiative. This deal is completely in alignment with our strategy of encouraging pay, basic and free digital broadcasters to make significant investments to acquire new series programming in order to make their channels distinctive and compelling. We are convinced these shows are perfectly suited to the genre of these channels and, when initially telecast, will build a loyal fanbase.”

Roma Khanna, the president of global networks and digital initiatives at NBCU, stated: "This fantastic deal is another step forward in our global strategy of offering audiences premiere first run content across our portfolio of global channels. We are delighted to be working with Warner Bros. to deliver top content via our world-class channel brands both here in the UK and around the world."