Comedy Central Takes Syndication Rights for FX Show

NEW YORK: Comedy Central has secured an agreement with Twentieth Television for the exclusive basic cable syndication rights to the FX comedy series It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia in a multi-year deal that kicks off in summer 2010.

Following the limited summer 2010 window, the show will begin its long-term multi-year run in January 2011. First-run seasons of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia will continue to air on FX. The fifth season runs through November 5, and the network has already ordered a sixth and seventh season, which will air in 2010 and 2011, respectively.

David Bernath, the senior VP of programming at Comedy Central, commented, "With an outstanding cast, superlative writing and stories that you have to see to believe, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is one of the most outrageous comedies on television. The gang from Paddy’s Pub will feel right at home when they hit our schedule next summer."

Steve MacDonald, the executive VP and general sales manager for basic cable of Twentieth Television, added, "Crossing a series from one hugely successful cable brand to another speaks volumes to the show’s loyal viewers and skyrocketing ratings. Greg Meidel, the president of Twentieth Television, and I are thrilled that Comedy Central will place It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia beside the network’s strong slate of cutting-edge programming; further elevating this hilarious series and introducing a unique cast of characters to new audiences."

John Landgraf, the president and general manager of FX Networks, said, “Sunny’s trajectory from home-brewed pilot to pop-culture phenomenon has been one of the most gratifying successes in FX’s history. This is also a watershed moment in television—the first time a comedy has syndicated from a basic cable network to another basic cable network. We have enormous respect for Comedy Central’s outstanding brand within both the comedy business and basic cable. We trust that they will enjoy and benefit from this remarkable show.”