Agreement with Sony Pictures Television sees global streamer only retaining North American exclusivity
Netflix and Paramount have extended their deals for Seinfeld following agreements with rights holder Sony Pictures Television.
The pacts mean the show will remain available on Netflix around the world for another five years. The company is retaining exclusive streaming rights in North America but RoW is now non exclusive, unlike the former agreement struck in 2021 that had been due to end in October.
Paramount’s extended deal runs for another three years and covers only the US, where it runs on Comedy Central and TV Land.
US syndication deals with companies including Tegna, Scripps and Nexstar also remain.
Netflix first took all of Seinfeld’s 180 episodes in a deal with SPT in 2019 that was estimated to have cost around $500m. Financial details for the latest sales have not been revealed.
Seinfeld, which was created by Jerry Seinfled and Larry David, has been on air since 1989 when it debuted on NBC.
It remains a major draw for audiences, with ratings agency Nielsen reporting that almost 60 million viewers watched at least one minute on TV or streaming in the first half of this year.
Keith Le Goy, chairman of Sony Pictures Television, described Seinfeld as “one of the most iconic and enduring series in television history…”
He added: “Seinfeld demonstrates that exceptional intellectual property stands the test of time. The show’s timeless humor, unforgettable characters and multigenerational appeal continue to create tremendous value for our partners while introducing one of television’s greatest comedies to new generations of fans.”
Netflix co-chief exec, Ted Sarandos, continued: “The show famously about nothing is in fact, everything, and we’re proud to be the streaming home of Seinfeld, one of the greatest comedies in the history of TV.”
“As one of the most influential and enduring comedies in television history, Seinfeld continues to resonate with audiences across generations, and we’re proud that Paramount will remain its exclusive cable home,” said George Cheeks, chair of TV media at Paramount.
“Iconic franchises like Seinfeld are foundational to our programming strategy, and this renewal reinforces our commitment to delivering fan favourite series that audiences love.”
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