Rainmaker To Represent Scripps Channels, Programming in International Markets
‘National Spelling Bee,’ ‘Act Your Age,’ ‘Someone They Knew’ get worldwide push
E.W. Scripps said it made a deal to have Rainmaker Content, a global distributor, represent original programming and channels from the broadcaster in international markets.
It’s the first time Scripps has permitted a third party to distribute channels such as Court TV and Scripps News and programming including the Scripps National Spelling Bee and Bounce TV’s Act Your Age.
“Scripps has built a library of unique and compelling content over the years which has had virtually no prior exposure in territories around the world — until now,“ Scripps senior VP of content and programming strategy Tom Zappala said. “Our diverse entertainment library of scripted, reality, features and event programming is unrivaled, while our thriving news and court channels are distinctive and appealing. They combine to offer a terrific opportunity to content providers worldwide and we believe Rainmaker is the perfect partner to take our programming across the globe.”
Rainmaker will be distributing unscripted shows including Court TV’s Someone They Knew With Tamron Hall and OJ25, and Scripps News content like Next Level, a series that looks at the impact of gaming, and The Why, a series that looks behind the headlines on important topics.
“Scripps and its networks have a global reputation for its compelling programs and channel offerings,“ Rainmaker Content co-CEO Greg Phillips said. “Rainmaker, meanwhile, has built a global network of relationships with premium broadcast partners, which enables us to find the best home for our growing catalog of content. That Scripps has appointed us to distribute its channels for the first time internationally alongside their premium programming is a real vote of confidence in Rainmaker’s abilities.”
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Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.