In the latest in a string of programming deals, Verizon Communications has signed a carriage deal with NBC Universal Cable that includes not only services like USA Network and CNBC, but also Spanish-language services such as Telemundo and mun2, officials said Monday.
The wide-ranging affiliation agreement will also give Verizon’s new video service retransmission-consent rights to carry NBC U’s owned-and-operated TV stations and Telemundo’s locally owned broadcast stations.
For the first time, Verizon revealed that it will be making “an extensive lineup” of Spanish-language programming available to “FiOS TV” subscribers, including Telemundo and mun2.
The announcement said that in addition to a robust expanded-basic package, Verizon will offer an alternative basic package that will feature English- and Spanish-language networks targeted toward the Hispanic population.
Under this deal with NBC U Cable, Verizon also has rights to distribute Bravo, CNBC World, MSNBC, Sci Fi Channel, Trio, ShopNBC and Universal HD, which features HDTV films, TV shows and sports.
Verizon has reached agreements to offer about 100 TV networks, and just last week, it unveiled a pact with Starz Entertainment Group LLC for its 13 premium-movie services, including Starz on Demand and Starz HDTV.
“Whether it’s news or entertainment, in-language programs, sports, shopping, local channels or HD, NBC Universal’s channels will provide the types of choices customers prefer,” Terry Denson, vice president of programming and marketing for Verizon FiOS TV, said in a prepared statement.
