The CW Television Network signed a five-year licensing agreement with Hulu to stream its programs on the Hulu Plus subscription service as well as the free, ad-supported Hulu service. It’s another deal toward its making content available any time and anywhere for the network, a joint venture of CBS Corporation and Warner Bros. Entertainment, which signed an agreement with Netflix earlier this month.
Under terms of the deal, the five most recent episodes of each show the next day after broadcast will be on Hulu Plus the day after they air on The CW and on the Hulu service eight days after. The CW already shows episodes from the current season on cwtv.com with advertising, a practice that will continue after the Hulu deal begins this year.
The network’s primetime schedule includes The Vampire Diaries, America’s Next Top Model, Gossip Girl, 90210, Supernatural and Nikita (pictured) as well three series in their first season: Ringer, Hart of Dixie and The Secret Circle.
“Our new arrangement with Hulu only affirms the incredible value of The CW’s series, as well as amplifying the immense power of the broadcast network model,” said Mark Pedowitz, president, The CW. “As we increase the amount of year round original programming on The CW, this deal provides our shows with greater exposure on a new platform, helping build even more awareness that will drive viewers back to the network and its affiliates. We see this as a win for everyone involved, the network, the stations, Hulu and ultimately, the viewers.”
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Photo of Maggie Q in “Nikita” courtesy of The CW
