Ovation Scores Riviera & Docs from Sky Vision

Ovation has inked a licensing deal with Sky Vision for 40 hours of programming, including linear and digital rights for several documentaries, as well as the drama series Riviera, which will make its U.S. broadcast premiere on the arts network.

Riviera was a success on Sky Atlantic with more than 15 million downloads in the U.K. alone. The drama stars Julia Stiles as a Midwestern art curator whose life is turned upside down after the death of her billionaire husband, played by Anthony LaPaglia, in a yacht accident. Riviera was created by Neil Jordan (The Crying Game, The Borgias) and co-written by Jordan and John Banville (The Sea).

In addition to Riviera, Ovation picked up the linear and digital rights to the documentaries Dancing for Russia, Elizabeth and Her Enemies, Master of Photography, The Art Show and Whiskey Business. They will premiere on Ovation and Ovation NOW.

“This programming package really hits on a lot of our targets,” said Scott Woodward, the executive VP of programming at Ovation. “We have had a lot of success with international drama series and Riviera, being a story ensconced in the world of art, is right in our wheelhouse. The documentaries are also top-notch and firmly in the realm of art and culture. We’re very pleased that we were able to work with Sky Vision to secure U.S. rights for our linear and digital platforms.”

Gillian Rose, the senior VP of U.S. sales and acquisitions at Sky Vision, added, “We are delighted to be working with Ovation to bring their viewers such a wide range of great new entertainment. From Riviera to Whiskey Business, there is something in the new lineup for everyone to enjoy.”