MTV Networks Japan in Online Video Deal

TOKYO/SINGAPORE/HONG KONG,
April 9: MTV Networks Japan has reached a deal to make a selection of its
content, including the animated comedy Beavis and Butthead, available on niwango’s online video-sharing
service, Nico Nico Douga.

At launch, the MTV channel
on Nico Nico Douga will feature more than nine titles and 30 episodes, with
more programs to be added soon. In addition to Beavis and Butthead, other programs available initially include the
car customization show MTV Pimp My Ride, as well as locally-produced content like Usavich, an original Japanese animated comedy series
featuring oddball rabbits Kirenenko and Putin as they serve time in a Russian
prison.

Starting with this new
service, niwango and MTV Networks Japan have jointly committed to explore new
and creative ideas for the content business and for digital distribution in
particular.

Peter Bullard, the
president of MTV Networks Japan, said: "MTV Networks is a leading
multiplatform content provider globally as well as in local markets. Partnering
with niwango's Nico Nico Douga, Japan's leading online video-sharing service,
will further cement our leadership position and allow us to continue to put our
consumers at the heart of our growth strategy as we make some of our most
popular shows even easier to access. At the same time, we offer advertisers
creative ways to reach our affluent and discerning audiences through carefully
integrated packages."

—By Irene Lew