IFC Renews Spirit Awards Rights Through 2017

IFC is still in good spirits with the independent films award show.

IFC and Film Independent have reached a new deal that will keep the Film Independent Spirit Awards on the network's in the U.S. through 2017.

The deal, financial terms of which were not disclosed, comes two days before IFC will present the 30th anniversary of the awards show on Saturday night.

“Each year, IFC and Film Independent work together to create a one-of-a-kind awards ceremony that has continued to attract the biggest names in entertainment to celebrate the year’s best indie movies,” said IFC president Jennifer Caserta. “We look forward to continuing our relationship to bring this unique celebration to our viewers.”

“We are so happy to continue our long relationship with IFC,” said Film Independent president Josh Welsh. “They have been our partners on the Spirit Awards for many years and I can’t think of a better home for this premier awards show that celebrates the independent film community.”    

IFC first aired the Spirit Awards in 1994, and the 30th anniversary show is scheduled for Feb., 21 at 5 p.m. (ET). The show will be cohosted by Fred Armisen, who stars in IFC hit Portlandia and Kristen Bell, who can be seen in Showtime's House of Lies.