Budiey
Universal Networks International Enters Licensing Agreement with NBC Universal International
Television Distribution For Asia
Universal Networks International (UNI), the global channels division of NBC Universal, has entered an agreement with NBC Universal International Television Distribution for the exclusive first-run basic cable and satellite rights across Asia to current NBC Universal scripted series, it was announced today.
Under the terms of the agreement, NBC Universal titles will be available on UNI channels Syfy Universal, Universal Channel and DIVA Universal as of January 2011.
Highlights of titles included in the deal are Covert Affairs, which will make its debut in Asia on DIVA Universal in the first quarter of 2011; The Event, an emotional high-octane conspiracy thriller; and Law & Order: Los Angeles, the latest installment in the venerable Law & Order brand. Additional series include Love Bites, Outsourced, The Cape, Outlaw and Perfect Couples.
Mr. Raymund Miranda, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Universal Networks International said, “The licensing agreement strengthens UNI’s ability to bring great drama series, comedy and movies to Asia audiences. It will further boost UNI Channels and give the channels a further competitive edge among the international channels in the region.â€
The deal is a further step in UNI’s growth plans to build strong pay-tv channels that connect with local audiences and feature world-class original and first-run content. The licensing agreement with NBC Universal International Television Distribution follows UNI’s channel brand revitalization of Syfy Universal and Universal Channel and the most recent rebrand of Hallmark Channel to DIVA Universal in Asia on 19 September 2010.
UNI began operations in Asia Pacific in April 2008 and has since launched a pan-Asia original production, The Biggest Loser Asia and has premiered the latest seasons of popular NBCU series, The Office and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. The network has also invested in top-quality global productions (Rookie Blue, Haven, Shattered and Facing Kate) to enhance the content line-up on its global brand portfolio.
