SKY, CBSSI Ink Content Deal in New Zealand

SKY in New Zealand and CBS Studios International (CBSSI) have agreed to a long-term content licensing deal that encompasses exclusive rights to programming from CBS, The CW and Showtime, including the drama Twin Peaks.

Under the terms of the volume deal, new series such as Twin Peaks will screen exclusively across SKY’s platforms in New Zealand. The multiyear agreement makes current and upcoming series from CBS, The CW and Showtime available across SKY’s pay channels, free-to-air TV on Prime and via its streaming service NEON.

“This is a significant deal for SKY, and reinforces our commitment to make great content available to as many New Zealanders as possible across our services,” said Lisa Clements, SKY’s head of acquisitions, entertainment and movies. “We have worked closely together for a number of years and it’s exciting to not only renew our agreement but to broaden it with the addition of exclusivity around Showtime content.”

SKY’s director of entertainment content, Travis Dunbar, commented, “Free-to-air viewers have enjoyed the launch of quality American network series such as MacGyver, Bull and Madam Secretary on Prime, while SKY basic customers have had access to a range of content from fantastic library shows such as Judge Judy and Blue Bloods on Vibe, Survivor and Hawaii Five-0 on the BOX, Zoo on THE ZONE and true classics, including My Three Sons, Beverly Hills 90210 and Bonanza on JONES!”

He added: “SoHo customers have been riveted by cutting-edge Showtime content including The Affair, Ray Donovan and Billions and we are delighted that our new deal includes exclusive access in this market to this award-winning content. And for those who prefer to watch TV on their own terms, we have a great range from Reign and Penny Dreadful to The Good Wife available anytime on our streaming service NEON.

“Like our viewers, our programming team are very passionate about the quality programming from CBS, Showtime and The CW. We too are looking forward to seeing the new Twin Peaks and will ensure our viewers have access to new titles in a timely manner.”

“In 2012, we were one of the first major Hollywood television studios to partner with SKY New Zealand and we’re thrilled to be expanding this relationship,” said Armando Nuñez, the president and CEO of CBS Studios International. “SKY in New Zealand is the perfect partner to distribute our world-class, award-winning programming across many different platforms.”