XBox, Zune Add BBC Worldwide Titles

NEW YORK: BBC Worldwide has struck a deal with Microsoft to make programming from BBC America and hit British content available for purchase and download from XBox LIVE Marketplace and Zune Marketplace in the U.S.

The launch includes BBC America’s international hit motoring show Top Gear, long-running sci-fi series Doctor Who, sci-fi show Torchwood, award-winning comedy Little Britain, drama series Robin Hood and the channel’s current hit Primeval, which has a feature film in the works from Warner Bros. In addition, the cult hit comedy The Mighty Boosh, now airing on Adult Swim, as well as the comedy favorite Fawlty Towers and classic episodes of Doctor Who, are now offered.

"BBC Worldwide is delighted to expand its digital distribution in the U.S. in partnership with Microsoft," said Beth Clearfield, the VP of digital media and business development for BBC Worldwide for America. "We believe our engaging award-winning programs are a perfect fit for the impressive Xbox LIVE Marketplace and Zune Marketplace experience." 

Added Christina DeRosa, Xbox LIVE’s general manager: "We’re thrilled to be adding a partner like BBC Worldwide to both Zune and Xbox LIVE—bringing people quality programming like Top Gear that appeals to our passionate gaming audience." 

This adds to the company’s existing deals with online outlets such as iTunes, Netflix, YouTube and MySpace.