MTVN Shows Coming to iTunes in the U.K.

files/pictures/picture-35.jpgMTV Networks Int'l (MTVNI), owned by Viacom Inc., and Apple announced an agreement to distribute full-length TV shows from MTV, Nickelodeon and Paramount Comedy channels for purchase and download from the iTunes Store in the U.K. The agreement is the first between the two companies outside the U.S.

"We're very excited to be partnering with iTunes," said David Lynn, EVP/Managing Director, MTV Networks U.K. and Ireland. "Brands like MTV, Nickelodeon and Paramount Comedy create some of the most popular music and entertainment shows on television today -- from PIMP MY RIDE and SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS to SOUTH PARK. Making our content available on the iTunes UK store gives our audiences the ability to watch our hit programming whenever they want and wherever they are."

The first iTunes offerings include 14 top-rated shows across MTV Networks' brands, including full seasons of its popular hits. From Nickelodeon, shows include the first pre-school program on iTunes, DORA THE EXPLORER, as well as AVATAR: THE LEGEND OF AANG and TV's top-rated kids' show SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS.

U.K. customers can now purchase the shows for £1.89 per episode from the iTunes U.K. Store, for viewing on either computer or iPod.

Mika Salmi, President of MTVN Global Digital Media, said that the international roll-out of content on iTunes was a key part of the company's plans to see its programming available across all digital platforms. "This is an important step forward. We already have programming and content on 35 mobile TV stations, 284 online properties and 141 TV channels. iTunes is a natural progression for us in the global roll-out of content on digital platforms from all our brands, increasing customer choice and boosting international and digital revenues."