Stage 9 Extends Reach for Squeegees

BURBANK, May 2: Stage 9
Digital Media, Disney-ABC Television Group’s recently launched new-media
studio, has expanded the distribution of its debut series Squeegees, signing a host of web syndication partnerships
with YouTube, Hulu, Zvue, eBaum’s World, X-Box Live and iTunes.

Squeegees
had an exclusive nine-week first-run premiere on
YouTube and abc.com. The comedy quartet Handsome Donkey created and starred in Squeegees, an original series about slackers and their
fledgling window-washing business. The series premiered on February 28 as the
studio's inaugural digital program, and was the most-subscribed new partner
video on YouTube in its first week.

The raft of new
syndication deals are part of Stage 9 Digital Media’s distribution strategy to
partner with top broadband video sites and download services to maximize viewer
accessibility and interaction. Fans will be able to stream or download the
10-episode series.

“We’re
going after the digital generation whose quest for entertainment is extended
across the Internet,” said Barry Jossen, the general manager of Stage 9. “This
second, wider distribution takes Squeegees to them wherever they are, on whatever device they’re using. The
strategy not only broadens the audience for the series, it builds interest in
Stage 9’s upcoming slate of programming.”

“With
the popularity of Squeegees,
Disney-ABC Television Group and Stage 9 proved that YouTube is a natural home
for original, professional content,” added Jordan Hoffner, the head of premium
content partnerships for YouTube. “We are excited to continue our partnership
and help Stage 9 bring its entertaining new series to future fans.”

—By Irene Lew