Youku says OK to Fremantle

Chinese VoD service Youku has taken over 200 hours of entertainment and drama programming from distributor FremantleMedia International (FMI).

Youku, which includes VoD channels youku.com, youku.net and tudou.com, will host shows including the recently launched Total Black Out USA, season three of The X Factor USA and season eight of America’s Got Talent.

The deal with FMI, which is the international distribution arm of global prodco FremantleMedia, runs to 202 hours in total. It will also allow Youku users to watch scripted series Hit and Miss starring Chloe Sevigny and period dramas The Crimson Petal and the White and Fingersmith.

Paul Ridley, FMI’s senior VP for Asia Pacific, added: “As the Asian region evolves it’s really important for our world-class entertainment to be present on platforms that are in line with new consumer viewing habits. With Youku’s vast reach it was the natural choice for us in China.”