Universal Films Headed to Peacock

Peacock has struck a deal that brings features from Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG) to its users no later than four months following their theatrical debuts.

The accelerated pay-one deal begins with the 2022 theatrical slate and covers titles from Universal, Focus Features, Illumination and DreamWorks Animation. Peacock will have exclusive rights to all UFEG films for the first and last four-month segments of the traditional 18-month pay-one window, with additional distribution partner announcements for the rights to the remaining 10 months to come. Peacock customers will also have exclusive access to original movies from Universal Pictures beginning in 2022.

“Since launching Peacock just one year ago, we have seen incredible viewership of movies and continue to expand our catalog with a range of films for every fan and occasion,” said Matt Strauss, chairman of direct-to-consumer and international at NBCUniversal. “Universal Filmed Entertainment Group has been a fantastic partner and we are excited to not only bring their amazing slate of blockbuster films and beloved franchises to Peacock in the first-pay window but also provide a steady stream of fresh, original films exclusively for Peacock customers throughout the year.”

“This new dynamic pay-one agreement demonstrates UFEG’s continued commitment to building a film ecosystem that allows filmmakers and artists to reach the broadest possible audience, celebrates and strengthens the theatrical experience, and, above all, empowers fans to experience the films they love on their own terms,” said Peter Levinsohn, vice chairman and chief distribution officer at UFEG. “We’re excited to become Peacock’s first pay-one partner while the platform continues to curate and build a vast film library that will delight its rapidly growing subscriber base.”