Netflix And The CW Network Announce New Agreement

Netflix and The CW Network announced a new multi-year content licensing relationship that allows Netflix [Nasdaq: NFLX] to remain the exclusive U.S. subscription television service for previous seasons of scripted series broadcast on The CW.

The new relationship spans all current CW series, as well as all future programs produced for the network during the term of the new agreement, which begins with the just-completed 2015-2016 broadcast season. Starting with the 2016-2017 season, Netflix members will be able to stream full seasons for each of these programs beginning eight days after each show’s season finale.

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 FLASH; and the network’s 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 and series THE 100, IZOMBIE, THE ORIGINALS and REIGN.

“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,” said Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer at Netflix. “This is a great step forward with a valued network partner to give fans exactly what they want, when and how they want it.”

“Since the initial landmark deal in 2011, The CW’s programming has enjoyed tremendous success and increased exposure through Netflix, and our new agreement not only continues but enhances this valuable relationship,” said Mark Pedowitz, President, The CW. “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.”

“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,'” said Scott Koondel, Executive Vice President and Chief Corporate Content Licensing Officer, CBS Corporation. “This multi-year agreement recognizes the value of our content and it validates the marketplace’s confidence in our studio’s 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.”

“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,” said Jeffrey Schlesinger, President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Television Distribution. “This new deal will provide consumers enhanced access to compatible programs like ‘Supergirl’ and DC’s ‘Legends of Tomorrow,’ while increasing the value of both in-season rights on The CW and prior seasons on Netflix.”