Netflix, MTV Sign Streaming Deal

By : Billy Gil | Posted: 06 Apr 2009
bgil@questex.com

Netflix and MTV Networks, a division of Viacom, have signed a deal to allow streaming of some MTV-owned shows, such as previous seasons of Comedy Central’s “South Park” and Nickelodeon shows such as “iCarly” and “SpongeBob SquarePants.”

The first nine seasons of “South Park,” totaling 139 episodes, are now available to stream for Netflix subscribers. Nickelodeon shows available to stream include “Blues Clues” (seasons one and two), “Dora the Explorer” (seasons one and two), “iCarly” (seasons one and two), “True Jackson, VP” (season one) and “SpongeBob SquarePants” (season three), as well as The N’s “Degrassi.”

The deal gives Netflix more than 300 episodes to add to those already available to stream. It marks an expansion of the relationship between Netflix and MTV Networks; the companies previously signed a deal to allow Netflix to stream movies, documentaries and original programming from the network’s LGBT-oriented Logo channel.

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with MTV Networks and be part of their innovative distribution strategy,” said Robert Kyncl, VP of content acquisition for Netflix. “We have a shared interest in providing fans expanded access to and strengthening MTV Networks’ key franchises, such as ‘South Park,’ ‘SpongeBob SquarePants,’ ‘Dora the Explorer,’ and others.”