FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) and Hulu have announced a major new first look deal for international distribution rights to the online video service’s original commission programming. This is the first time an international distributor has signed such an agreement with a online video service. The deal, which enables FME to distribute Hulu original series globally across all platforms, including traditional media, is another example of FME’s commitment to forging partnerships with the world’s most prominent and exciting content producers and further expands its catalogue of fresh, inventive and high-quality TV programming.
The first title FME will take to the global market is Morgan Spurlock’s acclaimed documentary series, A Day In The Life (16×30’), which Hulu premieres for a second season today on Hulu and the Hulu Plus subscription service.
Hulu’s foray into long-form original content kicked off in 2011 with the premiere of A Day in the Life, which chronicles a complete day in the life of some the world’s most fascinating humans, from billionaire entrepreneur Richard Branson and street artist Mr. Brainwash to multi-platinum Black Eye Peas front man, will.i.am. The second season features chef Mario Batali, the Roots drummer and frontman Questlove, comedian Marc Maron, hip-hop duo Das Racist and more. Morgan Spurlock gives viewers a 24-hour snapshot of his subjects’ lives on a day that may be ordinary to them but feels extraordinary to viewers.
David Ellender, Global CEO of FremantleMedia Enterprises, said, “This is a ground-breaking deal, which sets a new precedent for acquiring content that can live on both digital and linear platforms, while identifying opportunities outside of the traditional distribution models. We are delighted to be part of Hulu’s ambitious push in to the production of original programming and to be offering audiences across the world access to innovative new shows like A Day in the Life.”
Andy Forssell, Hulu’s senior vice president of content, added, “As we expand into original series, we’re collaborating with some of the world’s greatest independent storytellers to make and distribute great TV. Through this new partnership with FME, we now have the opportunity to extend the reach of these distinctive stories like Morgan Spurlock’s ‘A Day in the Life,’ on a global scale.”
With its original programming, Hulu provides opportunities for independent storytellers to produce and distribute their work across its optimized distribution platform. Hulu recently launched its first original scripted series, Battleground, a drama with comedic moments set in the world of political campaigns. Battleground is executive produced by JD Walsh, Hagai Shaham and Marc Webb (500 Days of Summer, The Amazing Spider-Man). Hulu also announced the summer 2012 launch of Up to Speed, a whimsical travel series turned on its head by maverick filmmaker Richard Linklater (Dazed and Confused and Oscar-nominated Before Sunset), starring historian and flaneur Timothy “Speed” Levitch (The Cruise).
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