Netflix and The CW Network Announce New Agreement
Netflix, the world’s leading internet television network, with over 81 million members in over 190 countries, and The CW Network, a joint venture between CBS Corporation and Warner Bros. Entertainment which made its debut on September 20, 2006, as Americas fifth broadcast network, announced a new multi-year content licensing relationship that will continue to allow Netflix to remain the exclusive U.S. subscription television service for full seasons of scripted television series which are originally broadcast on The CW.
According to Mark Pedowitz, President, The CW:
Since the initial landmark deal in 2011, The CWs programming has enjoyed tremendous success and increased exposure through Netflix, and our new agreement not only continues but enhances this valuable relationship. The CW has positioned itself for the future by transforming into a true hybrid network, rooted in broadcast while fully embracing the digital and streaming habits of the viewers.
The relationship includes all current CW series, as well as any future programs produced for the network during the term of the new agreement, which begins with the just-completed 2015-2016 broadcast season. Beginning with the 2016-2017 season, The CW will allow Netflix members to stream full seasons for each of these programs beginning just eight days after each shows season finale. There is currently a three to four-month wait for full seasons to show up on Netflix and fans of The CW series, who remain devoted to watching their favorite shows through the summer hiatus months, will certainly appreciate being able to see the full seasons earlier in the year.
Netflix Chief Content Officer, Ted Sarandos, had this to say about the agreement:
Netflix members in the US love the great lineup of series from The CW, and we are thrilled to extend the relationship and bring those shows to our members exclusively now, just eight days after their season finales. This is a great step forward with a valued network partner to give fans exactly what they want, when and how they want it.
Programming available to Netflix members will include the three new series on The CW’s 2016-2017 primetime schedule: FREQUENCY, NO TOMORROW and RIVERDALE; the hit DC series LEGENDS OF TOMORROW and SUPERGIRL, which will join ARROW and THE FLASH; and the networks critically acclaimed JANE THE VIRGIN and CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND, featuring the Golden Globe-winning performances of Gina Rodriguez and Rachel Bloom, respectively. The roster will also continue to include fan favorites such as THE VAMPIRE DIARIES, THE 100, iZOMBIE, SUPERNATURAL, THE ORIGINALS and REIGN.
Scott Koondel, Executive Vice President and Chief Corporate Content Licensing Officer, CBS Corporation said:
We are pleased to extend our valued partnership with Netflix for CW programming with more CBS-produced series, led by award-winning and critically acclaimed Jane The Virgin and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. This multi-year agreement recognizes the value of our content and it validates the marketplaces confidence in our studios long-term ability to produce high-quality content. This unique windowing will further extend the CW brand and fan base throughout the television season while providing better in-season exclusivity for our broadcast affiliates, MVPD partners and potential OTT opportunities. We look forward to continued success with Netflix on this partnership well into the future.
Jeffrey Schlesinger, President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Television Distribution contributed:
For the past several years, the distinctive, high-quality shows we have been producing for The CW have proven their popularity across linear, on demand and digital properties here and around the world. This new deal will provide consumers enhanced access to compatible programs like Supergirl and DCs Legends of Tomorrow, while increasing the value of both in-season rights on The CW and prior seasons on Netflix.
You can find more information on the landmark deal at the following corporate websites: