ITV Studios has signed a deal with Vice Studios to become its exclusive global distribution partner.
The new partnership — which was unveiled ahead of ITV Studios London Screenings presentation — will see ITV Studios add nearly 2,000 hours of Vice content to its more than 90,000-hour catalogue, as well as represent future projects in VICE Studios’ pipeline.
As the exclusive distributor of Vice’s library, ITV Studios is now overseeing distribution of both its scripted and non-scripted content, such as the “Dark Side of the Ring” franchise and “United Gangs of America.” ITV Studios’ recently launched the label Zoo 55, which it says will be “instrumental” in exploiting Vice’s catalogue and brands in both the digital space and FAST channels across social media as well as connected TV platforms.
The deal also includes future Vice Studios produced content, including new scripted series from Vice’s UK production hub Pulse Films, behind Sky’s “Gangs of London” series.
“We have been looking for a distribution partner that matches our creative ambition to work with us across our diverse and dynamic slate,” said Jamie Hall, co-president of Vice Studios. “With their flexible, creative deal-making, digital first thinking and scale, the exceptional team at ITV Studios led by Ruth Berry, will ensure our programmes gain greater global exposure.”
Ruth Berry, ITV Studios’ president global partnerships and Zoo 55 said: “Adding Vice unique catalogue to our distribution portfolio and managing their brands in digital exploitation and FAST channels represents an exciting and rare opportunity to strengthen both our content pipeline and digital footprint. I am hugely excited about the opportunities for both parties and am looking forward to working closely with the Vice Studios’ team.”
Deal negotiations were led by Joe Patrick for Vice Media and Julie Meldal-Johnsen and Graham Haigh at ITV.
