CALIFORNIA: Underscoring the success of their alliance, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and NBC Enterprises have jointly announced that they have agreed to extend their international distribution agreement for an additional four years. Under the enhanced agreement, MGM will continue to provide distribution services for all NBC Studios programming across all territories outside of North America through the 2007-2008 television season.
MGM will continue to handle the international sales and distribution of all of NBC's current and future programming, including this season's critically acclaimed series Boomtown, American Dreams and Hidden Hills, as well as the forthcoming drama Kingpin, the current prime-time favourites Will & Grace ( airs in India on Zee English) and Crossing Jordan, and the hit daytime drama Passions. NBC Enterprises will continue to represent NBC News, NBC Sports, first-run syndicated programmes, latenight and formats.
President, MGM Worldwide Television Distribution Jim Griffiths said, "From the very beginning this alliance has successfully flourished, firing on all cylinders. Combining MGM's renowned library and NBC's premium-quality programming has allowed us to assemble an unparalleled collection of titles that broadcasters across the globe have openly embraced. Our efforts to further enhance this alliance are a testament to both companies' unwavering commitment to the future as we continue to search for innovative ways to promote brand awareness."
The US's first broadcast network, NBC claims to have evolved into a diverse, international media company. In addition to the NBC Television Network and 14 television stations, the company owns CNBC, operates MSNBC in partnership with Microsoft, and maintains interests in a number of programming services. Its international holdings include CNBC Europe and CNBC Asia, which are services of NBC and Dow Jones, and an equity position in National Geographic Channels International.
MGM Worldwide Television Distribution handles global distribution of film and television product as well as co-productions for MGM Studios. Through this distribution unit, approximately 4,000 feature films and 10,100 television episodes are available to the global television market. In India the company has a 50:50 JV with Zee.