Bell Media & HBO Sign Historic Agreement

TORONTO/NEW YORK: As part of a new, unprecedented agreement, Bell Media will become the exclusive Canadian home of all HBO programming on all subscription platforms into the next decade.

Under this long-term pact—a first of its kind for HBO in Canada—Bell Media will have the ability to deliver current-season, past-season and library HBO programming exclusively on its linear, on-demand and OTT platforms in English and French. The agreement also marks the first time that HBO has granted exclusive SVOD rights for first-run programming throughout Canada.

Bell Media and HBO have also announced a new original production development program, with the goal of co-producing premium, made-in-Canada content for the international market. The two companies will co-develop original Canadian drama, comedy and factual productions for their platforms and for distribution around the world. Several projects have already been selected for development from production companies Inverted Pictures/Artists Studio, Rhombus Media and Force Four Entertainment. Additionally, new HBO comedy specials featuring established and emerging Canadian comedians will also be considered.

“Bell Media and HBO enjoy a partnership of shared respect and admiration,” said Charles Schreger, the president of programming sales at HBO. “Together, we secured a deal that will allow both our businesses to continue to grow and evolve.”

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring all HBO programming to Canadians on whatever platform they choose,” added Mary Ann Turcke, the president of Bell Media. “With this agreement, HBO’s incredible premium content will power subscriptions to Bell Media brands for many years to come.”

“This is an extensive deal that could only exist with a trusted partner like Bell Media,” said Glenn Whitehead, the executive VP of business and legal affairs at HBO. “The Canadian audience will have access to HBO programming in more ways than ever before.”

“We are privileged to strengthen our relationship with one of the world’s great television brands,” said Tracey Pearce, the senior VP of specialty and pay TV at Bell Media. “HBO has been our extraordinary partner for many years, and we look forward to taking that partnership to a whole new level.”

“The level of talent in Canada is extraordinary and we are excited about the opportunity to tap into this creative community,” commented Michael Lombardo, the president of programming at HBO. “In Bell Media, we have a great partner with a history of strong relationships and together I believe we will be positioned to further elevate our programming.”

“Our enhanced partnership with HBO will open doors for Canadian creators to one of the world’s most respected innovators in the development of original content,” added Randy Lennox, the president of entertainment production and broadcasting at Bell Media. “We can’t wait to get to work on developing the next great TV series for Canada and the world.”