LPWire: ABC Enters Into First Look Programming Deal with HBO Independent Productions

ABC Enters Into First Look Programming Deal with HBO Independent Productions

ABC and Home Box Office have entered into a two-year agreement to jointly create new programming for the broadcast television audience.

Under the deal, HBO Independent Productions (HIP), will develop and produce series programming for broadcast on ABC. HIP, Home Box Office's production arm, is responsible for such hits as "Everybody Loves Raymond," "Martin," and "Roc."

While ABC will have a first look at all programming developed by HIP, HIP will be able to approach other networks for projects not ordered by ABC and to draw upon the development fund established by the network for these projects. In addition, ABC will provide deficit financing for pilots and series on or off ABC, possibly in partnership with HIP, with ABC retaining distribution rights and copyrights for all programming developed through this association.

"We look forward to combining our creative resources with ABC to develop new, innovative programming for broadcast television," said Chris Albrecht, CEO, Home Box Office. "This new relationship provides us with a great opportunity to build on our proven track record in creating successful series for broadcast networks."

"This new partnership with HBO allows us to tap into the creative relationships and sensibility that has made HBO so successful over the past several years," added Lloyd Braun, Chairman, ABC Entertainment Television Group. "This deal further underscores our commitment to develop with the best producers in the business as we continue to rebuild ABC."

Managing HIP under Albrecht is Russell Schwartz, executive vice president, Creative Affairs, Business and Planning, who has overseen HIP's creative and business activities since 1999. Reporting to Schwartz is John Martin, Director of Creative and Business Affairs and a soon-to-be-hired senior development executive.

Home Box Office is the premium television programming division of Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P., providing two 24-hour premium television services, HBO and Cinemax. Together, both networks reach approximately 38 million subscribers in the United States via cable and satellite delivery. Home Box Office's international joint ventures bring HBO branded services to more than 50 countries around the globe.

The ABC Television Network serves 225 affiliated television stations nationwide with quality, award-winning programming that includes many of the most widely viewed entertainment, news and sports series and specials. Primetime entertainment favorites on ABC cross various programming genres with hit series ranging from "NYPD Blue," "The Practice," "Alias" and "My Wife and Kids" to "The Wonderful World of Disney" and "Monday Night Football" -- in addition to top- quality theatrical and made-for-TV movies. Viewers turn to the network's regularly scheduled news programming, including "World News Tonight with Peter Jennings," "Nightline," "Primetime Thursday," and "20/20," for information. In fact, more American's get their News from ABC News than from any other news source. The network has also been a longtime driving force in other dayparts, with programs ranging from "Good Morning America" to "The View" and "General Hospital." The ABC Television Network is owned by The Walt Disney Company.

--Posted August 5, 2002
Source: ABC Press Release