AMC Networks Creating Original Content for Charter Spectrum

26 Apr, 2017 By: Erik Gruenwedel

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AMC Networks, home of “The Walking Dead” franchise, April 26 announced a unique deal with Charter Communications to create original content for the cable operator’s Spectrum TV service, including online TV platform Spectrum TV Plus.

The partnership will give Spectrum subscribers access to exclusive programming in an attempt to differentiate Charter’s platform and services from other pay-TV operators.

Charter currently offers $20 monthly standalone online TV service, Spectrum TV Plus, to its broadband-only subscribers.

The companies expect the first content to premiere on Charter Spectrum in 2018. Under the agreement, Charter will have an exclusive initial window in the U.S. to the co-produced content for use on its own platform, while AMC Studios will retain subsequent rights, including the right to distribute the content internationally.

“This is an exciting deal that furthers Charter’s goal of providing its customers with world class products and services,” Tom Montemagno, EVP of programming acquisition for Charter Communications, said in a statement.

In addition to “Walking Dead,” AMC Studios produces “Fear the Walking Dead,” “The Son,” “Into the Badlands,” “Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency” and upcoming “The Terror.”

The studio and Charter have taken a page from Netflix, Hulu and Amazon’s playbook to produce more of the shows that appear on their services.

AMC Studios has grown from one production — "Walking Dead" — in 2010 to 10 scripted originals in 2016.

Lionsgate, Warner, Sony and other studios currently create TV shows for domestic networks while retaining international distribution rights. This deal differs in that the content will be co-funded and produced between AMC and Charter.

“By delivering unique, high-value products and services [Charter continues] to differentiate the Spectrum customer experience,” said Ed Carroll, AMC Networks COO. “As AMC Studios becomes an increasingly important part of our business, this first-of-its-kind partnership represents a new horizon for us.”
 

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